Self expression, ACA Page 11
Volume 30, Number 7
July 10, 2019
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Access Press staff and board members thank everyone who took part in the recent Access Press Stakeholder Survey. One lucky anonymous survey participant won a gift card (and you know who you are). The information gathered through the survey is valuable as work continues on the strategic plan. The firm of Gladhill Rhone conducted the survey and compiled the results, which are guiding work going forward. We learned a lot from the survey. Among the things we have learned: - Most of you prefer reading the hard copy newspaper, though you look online for updates and for timesensitive news. - Almost half of you read us coverto-cover, every month, without fail. - You would like to have more distribution points (we’re working on that!) - Our Facebook feed is your favorite way to follow us on social media. - Many of you have been reading Access Press since our inception in 1990, but more than one-third of our readership has come to us in the last few years. - You are aware of our main programming, including advertising, the Charlie Smith awards and advocacy. You want to know more about volunteering and how to donate to us. (Here’s a link for that: https:// www.accesspress.org/donate/ ) - You like the fact that we are a non-profit organization, although you acknowledge that that might make our business model more complex - We provide you with trustworthy news that you find unbiased and informative. The surveys, along with stakeholder interviews and various work sessions, are informing an exciting new strategic plan that will carry us forward. We’ll still be the Access Press that you appreciate, but we are excited for new initiatives as well. Watch for ways to get involved and be part of our momentum! ■
PAID
TWIN CITIES, MN PERMIT NO. 4766
"It is about what we do with our life and how we react to roadblocks in front of us." Jennifer Mundl
NEWS DIGEST
John Schatzlein
Schatzlein, Mundl remembered for contributing to community by Jane McClure Minnesotans with disabilities are paying tribute to two community members who dedicated themselves to advocacy and improving the lives of others. John Schatzlein and Jennifer Mundl died in June and will be greatly missed by their families, friends and fellow self-advocates. Both were also longtime contributors to Access Press. Schatzlein is remembered for his decades of advocacy, his expertise on access and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) issues and his willingness to reach out to others with spinal cord injuries. He was 70 and lived in Bloomington. Mundl is remembered as someone whose vast knowledge about assistive technology and matter-of-fact approach to problem-solving helped countless people improve their lives. Mundl was 53 and lived in Arden Hills.
Schatzlein made a difference “We really need to recognize that we’re all kind of on a journey. Sometimes you’re going to have an early traumatic disabling condition—like I was 14 and fell out of a tree—or you end up with cancer or a friend of mine has early Alzheimer’s in his 50s. All of it is a part of life’s progression. We have to be able to do what we can to stay healthy. And you have to be strong enough and hopefully have a support system enough to go from day to day and maximize what you can do.” - John Schatzlein “He was a true pioneer in the rights for people with disabilities here in Minnesota. One of the greatest,” said friend and fellow activist Jeff Bangsberg. Schatzlein’s life was changed at age 14, when he fell out of a large cottonwood tree during a visit to a family farm. He sustained a spinal cord injury and became a paraplegic. That led to life of
REMEMBERED To page 5
Peters Honored Page 13 Work wanted Page 2 More new laws Page 3 One Minnesota? Page 4 Use our Directory of Organizations to find needed services Page 7-10
Federal court oversight of disability matters will continue into 2020 by Jane McClure Federal court oversight of the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) actions and policies affecting Minnesotans with disabilities will continue into 2020, as will continued monitoring to ensure compliance with the state’s Olmstead Plan and a 2011 court settlement. U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank June 17 issued a 41-page order on the matter, in response to an April status conference. Oversight was to end December 4. But in the order, Frank stated, “… the court has determined that investigation and review is required on several compliance issues before the court can equitably end its jurisdiction over this matter.” Jurisdiction will now continue at least until September 15, 2020. All court-mandated reporting requirements will continue. But it’s clear that oversight won’t go on indefinitely, if Frank has his way. The judge has asked the two sides in the ongoing dispute to get together at the federal courthouse for a roundtable meeting. The meeting is intended to develop a plan
U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank
to address all remaining steps needed to successfully implement the agreement before the court terminates its jurisdiction on the matter. A date for that meet-
ing hasn’t been set. “After years of litigation, the time is now for those invested in the equitable treatment of persons with developmental disabilities to work together and develop a plan to ensure that the Jensen lawsuit is not left an empty promise,” the order stated. In a footnote, Frank added, “Unfortunately, the equitable treatment of persons with developmental disabilities in the State of Minnesota is not confined to the Jensen lawsuit. The court hopes that state leadership may develop a comprehensive solution to the global issues that exist.” Frank and Magistrate Judge Becky Thorson in April heard DHS’s request for oversight to end, along with progress updates on both the settlement and Olmstead. State officials have cited the ongoing costs and time of oversight for both matters. Attorneys for the families involved in the lawsuit want oversight to continue and want further issues addressed before they are satisfied. DHS Commissioner Tony Lourey issued a statement after the ruling. “Minnesota has long been a leader in services for people with disabilities and continues to look for opportunities to help people
live as independently a possible and have choices in their lives. Minnesota’s system of services for people with disabilities is always developing,” he said. “The Olmstead Plan is moving us in the right direction and keeping us focused on working collaboratively across state agencies so that people with disabilities can live and work in regular community settings and have opportunities to participate in the community. This issue is something we remain deeply committed to. We are making very real progress, which we will continue.” While the ruling pleased those who want continue court oversight, neither side got everything it wanted. The ongoing legal dispute stems from a class action lawsuit that began in 2009 and was settled in late 2011. The lawsuit was prompted by excessive use of restraint of residents of the Minnesota Extended Treatment Options (METO) in Cambridge. Parents of three METO residents sought changes in the facility practices, as well as monetary damages for their children and for other METO residents who had been restrained or secluded there.
OVERSIGHT To page 4
Pg 2 July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
EDITOR’S DESK
Tim Benjamin It’s been a long, wet summer, and that’s made it very hard to be outside. Some days I even find it kind of hard to look outside because when it’s overcast, in my mind's eye it seems very hot out there. So I think for me this is going to be a summer of indoor activities. And wouldn’t you know it, the air conditioning in my van went out. When I first started driving, the cars I had didn’t have a/c. But I can’t imagine that anymore. And I don’t want to. Another reason the summer has become less sunny is that we’ve lost two wonderful leaders in the disability community. For me, both were important mentors. I wouldn’t be writing this if it weren’t for Jen Mundl. I went to Courage Center back in the nineties to learn how to use the computer in my daily life and to prepare me to back to college. Jenny patiently
Keep the people we've lost in your prayers, and stay safe. Get outside even though it is warm and humid, because after all, it is summer.
taught me all the latest software, and I’m still using all of it (well, except for Lotus 1-2-3). She was an educator to the core. I spent many hours studying, practicing, taking quizzes and learning to manage the computer with Jenny looking over my shoulder and guiding me. Besides being a great teacher, she was a great mentor; I could go to her for advice on many subjects. I think she probably got tired of some of my questions, but she was a very easy person to talk to and she’d give you the true nitty-gritty about disability and her life. She’s gone way too early and unexpectedly. I’ll miss her, right along with all of her students, friends and colleagues. John Schatzlein was everybody’s friend and a champion for everyone. I first met John the day that I was injured, 45 years ago this month. He was doing an
"Another reason the summer has become less sunny is that we've lost two wonderful leaders in the disability community. For me, both were important mentors."
internship as a counselor for people with disabilities at the University of Minnesota Hospital. There is no question that I would not be alive today if it weren’t for John’s commitment to letting me know that living with a disability would not be the end of the world, or of my chances for achieving my dreams. I’ve heard a similar story from many others about John’s key role as a mentor and friend when they were newly injured members of this community. For many years I would just go to wherever John was working at the time and take a lunch break with him. If I couldn’t find John, he was off playing wheelchair basketball or sled hockey or coaching the team for the Paralympics. He was quite a world-traveling athlete, and like any athlete, he paid the price of body aches and injuries—but his were compounded by his disabilities. He was a scholar as well as an athlete, and a deeply spiritual man. John wrote a column on spirituality for Access Press for many years. In the last few years it’s been harder for me to get together with him as he was dealing with many medical issues. But not a week went by that I didn’t think of him and how he would advise me, and I valued every conversation we ever had. Some significant legislation went into effect on July 1. The enhanced reimbursement rate for direct support professionals doing complex care got
another increase. Any PCAs out there who work for a client who is eligible for 12 or more hours a day of PCA services can complete online training and get this increase in pay. You can contact DHS (or Google “DHS PCA enhanced rate”) and get details on how to complete the training and apply for the enhanced rate. For those who already work as a PCA, the training is probably just going to test what you already know. Keep the people we’ve lost in your prayers, and stay safe. Get outside even though it is warm and humid, because after all, it is summer. See you at the ADA celebration on July 26! We have an article with an update on the Olmstead Plan. In its time, the Olmstead act is going to be as powerful a document as the ADA act. Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan will help the disability community by driving how independent living is legislated and funded for seniors and people with disabilities. Keep the people we’ve lost in your prayers, and stay safe. Get outside even though it is warm and humid, because after all, it is summer. Don’t forget that July 26 we will have the annual ADA celebration (see the ENJOY! section, p. 11 for agenda and location). I look forward to seeing you there! ■
HISTORY NOTE
Meaningful work was focus for New York City group The anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prompts a look back at earlier achievements of the disability rights movement. One focus always has been on meaningful work. During the Great Depression of the 1930s, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) provided jobs for many people who otherwise would have sat idle. But the WPA in its first years wasn’t accessible to all. The WPA was part of the New Deal. The New Deal was a package of programs, public work projects, financial reforms, and regulations enacted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt between 1933-36. The New Deal responded to needs for relief, reform and recovery from the Great Depression. The New Deal had decidedly mixed results for people with disabilities. It provided needed therapy and specialized health services, education, training and other programs including the start of the supplemental income programs. The WPA directed resources to services
for people with disabilities, ranging from schools and housing facilities to education and job training programs. But work relief actions were another matter and caused great frustration in some states. How people were categorized for employment could sometimes become a barrier. In 1935, a group called the League for the Physically Handicapped formed to protest discrimination by WPA officials in New York City. A group of about 300 people, most living with the effects of polio and cerebral palsy, organized the league. All had been turned down for WPA jobs. The city’s Home Relief Bureau stamped every single application “PH” for “physically handicapped.” That effectively marked the applicants as unemployable. League members staged sit-ins, at the Home Relief Bureau in May 1935 and later at the WPA headquarters. The movement began with six people staging at impromptu
Volume 30, Number 7 Periodicals Imprint: Pending ISSN
Co-Founder/Publisher............................................................................................................Wm. A. Smith, Jr. (1990-96) Co-Founder/Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief.............................................................................. Charles F. Smith (1990-2001) Board of Directors.......Mohamed Alfash, Brigid Alseth, Stephen Anderson, John Clark, Jane Larson, Julius Williams, .....................................................................................................................................................................Kay Willshire, Mark Zangara Advertising Sales......... Michelle Hegarty, 612-807-1078 Cartoonist......................................................Scott Adams Executive Director.....................................Tim Benjamin Production........................................................ In-Fin Tuan Managing Editor........................................ Jane McClure Distribution............................................ S. C. Distribution Business Manager/Webmaster......... Dawn Frederick 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: 25th 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 at 161 St. Anthony Ave, Suite 901, St. Paul, MN 55103. INQUIRIES AND ADDRESS CHANGES should be directed to: Access Press, The Capitol Ridge Inn Offices 161 St. Anthony Ave; #910, St. Paul, MN 55103; 651-644-2133; Fax: 651-644-2136; email: access@accesspress.org / Website: nonprofitcharity.org
sit-in at the Home Relief Bureau, after the director refused to meet with them. “What started it was finding out that jobs were available, that the government was handing out jobs . . . everybody was getting jobs . . . those of us who were militant just refused to accept the fact that we were the only people who were looked upon as not worthy, not capable of work,” one sit-in participant said in an interview. The very next day, the protests expanded to a separate rally held by the Communist Party in Madison Square Garden. An appeal for help led to hundreds of protesters on the league’s behalf. Other groups joined the effort in solidarity with those seeking work. Newspapers and radio stations covered the growing protest. Efforts to disperse the sit-in fell short. People with disabilities were joined by their allies as the days went on. Picketing continued outside. The sit-in and picketing lasted for days. The efforts drew attention to the need for
jobs for everyone. By 1936, about 1,500 jobs were created in New York City alone for people with disabilities. The league’s work drew attention to the need for similar jobs around the nation. It was a significant gain at a time when discrimination was codified. The Social Security Act of August 1935 specifically defined disability as “inability to engage in substantial gainful work.” That precluded anyone receiving any disability insurance from easily gaining employment. The league had disbanded by 1938, as efforts to find work improved. Meaningful employment and a living wage continue to be key issues for many people with disabilities, as our civil rights movement continues. The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mnddc.org or www.mncdd.org and www.partnersinpolicymaking.com.
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
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Cell phone crackdown, opioids, elder abuse are in new laws by Access Press staff It’s that time of year. Bills passed by the 2019 Minnesota Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz began taking effect July 1, with more laws going online August 1. When laws start is in turn dictated by state statute. Unless a specific effective date is provided in the bill, the act will take effect on August 1 following its final enactment. An example of that is the hands-free cell phone law. Bills containing an item of appropriation, however, take effect on July 1. One example of this type of new measure is the additional $4 million in funding for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Some of that money is dedicated to additional mental support for farmers. Each act takes effect at 12:01 a.m. on the day it becomes effective, unless a different time is specified. Several laws taking effect this summer are being watched closely by Minnesotans with disabilities. In some cases, such as changes to the state incontinence products program, activists are still waiting for specifics from the Department of Human Services or other state officials. Other law changes are already being publicized. Here is an overview of a few laws taking effect this summer:
Hands-free cell phone use
August 1 is when Minnesota joins 17 other states and the District of Columbia in mandating that drivers have cellphones in hands-free mode when vehicles are moving. Much focus during the session was on families who have lost loved ones due to distracted driving. But voices were also raised in support of the law by people who have sustained disabling injuries as a result of accidents where a driver was talking or texting on a phone. Several people who have sustained traumatic brain injuries were a key part of the push to get the law passed. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement agencies have started a high-profile campaign to get the word out about the new law. Minnesota until now has allowed calls if a driver isn’t distracted. It is already illegal for drivers to send text messages and emails while driving. Nor can they access or search the Internet. Under the new law, the only exception is for emergency calls on a phone. GPS devices can still be used. But with hands-free technology on phones or GPS, have the number or address punched in before driving. After August 1, if police see a driver holding a phone while driving, that driver can be stopped. A violation is a petty misdemeanor. The fine is $50 fine for the first violation and a $275 fine for subsequent violations.
‘Historic’ elder abuse law
Incidents of abuse at elder housing facilities sparked much debate at the capitol in 2019. Walz signed the his-
Hands-free devices are acceptable under the new law, which takes effect August 1. toric legislation into law in early June. The law will be phased in over the next two years, as much work is ahead to implement its provisions. Minnesota had the dubious distinction of being the only state to not license assisted living facilities. The new law changes that. The change affects more than 55,000 people living in more than 1,200 facilities. At a news conference held in conjunction with the bill’s signing, Walz said “It is not only going to improve the lives of our parents our seniors, it’s also going to be an acclamation that our democracy can still work.” The measure was hailed as bipartisan. Minnesota’s nursing homes have been regulated for years. The need for regulating assisted living facilities was raised as the residential mix has changed. The nursing home population statewide has dropped to few than 30,00 people. Facilities must be licensed. A bill of rights for residents will be created. In January 2020, people can put a hidden camera in a resident’s room. The overall measures are to be implemented by August 2021. State lawmakers allocated $30 million to set up the new law’s protections.
Opiods
Several measures to combat opioid addition went into effect starting July 1. As more communities deal with opioid addiction and its related consequences, more attention is needed. A new opioid advisory council is to establish goals and make recommendations to state lawmakers on how to most effectively respond to the crisis. The council will have the authority to award grants. The new law also provides funding for county social service and tribal social service agencies. This money is to provide child protection services to families affected by addiction, increases support for anti-trafficking initiatives, and sets application and renewal fee requirements for opiate manufacturers. The new law directs the state Board of Pharmacy to evaluate the effectiveness of the fees on opiate-based drug manufacturers and determine whether the legislation has had any negative impact on the availability of opiates for the treatment of chronic or intractable pain. One concern is that efforts to curb addiction not be to the detriment of manufacturers and legitimate use of the drugs. Minnesota is among several states suing drug manufacturers, which was a point of debate during the bill negotiations. The new law is expected to generate about $10 million in revenue each year.
Innovation grants provide opportunities for three groups A microgrants program, administered by The Arc Minnesota, provides grants of up to $2,000 each to help people with disabilities achieve their personal goals in employment, housing and community participation. For more information about the grants program, contact dsd.innovation@state.mn.us.
Autism Society of Minnesota, St. Paul
The Minnesota Department of Human Services has awarded more than $1.2 million in grants to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Disability Services Innovation Grants, first appropriated by the 2016 Legislature, promote employment, independent living, choice of housing and connections with others. “With an increased focus on equity, we have allocated significant grant funding for the needs of people with disabilities in African immigrant communities,” said Human Services Commissioner Tony Lourey. “Funding is also going to help youth with disabilities in the Twin Cities metro area and in southern Minnesota as they transition out of high school to adult life.” Receiving grants are: Autism Society of Minnesota, St. Paul, $381,290 for a collaboration with the Somali American Parent Association and the Multicultural Autism Action Network to increase community participation and engagement among individuals and families affected by autism and related conditions. One focus will be transition-age adults under age 25 from East African communities. Several events will offer information on home- and community-based services, including employment, education and housing. Sensory- and disability-friendly community cultural events also are planned.
Opportunity Services: Marshall, Megan, Grant, Thomas and Nathan.
Capital Health Services, St. Paul, $355,364 for an initiative that will include outreach to underserved minority populations with disabilities. The organization will focus particularly on helping individuals in Somali, Oromo, Sudanese, Ethiopian, Amharic and Karen communities to get competitive employment alongside people without disabilities. Opportunity Services, $500,000 for jobs@graduation, a program focused on getting special education students competitive jobs—working alongside people without disabilities—within a year of graduation. Each academic year, students from school districts in Dodge, Olmsted, Goodhue, Stearns, Benton and Sherburne counties will enroll in the program. DHS has three disability innovation grants programs for organizations throughout Minnesota: The Disability Services Innovation Grants program offers grants of up to $500,000 each over two years. A Small Innovation Grants program awards between $2,000 and $50,000 per year to people and organizations that work or plan to work with Minnesotans with disabilities.
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
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FROM OUR COMMUNITY
So, Gov. Walz, what about that promise of One Minnesota? What happened Governor Walz, to One Minnesota, we can do better, by addressing the workforce crisis for people with disabilities? Compromise is necessary at times, Governor Walz and all legislators, but never at the expense of compromising others! Never! The remarkable miscarriage of justice for people with disabilities and the elderly continues. And you are responsible. This last session, while a few changes were instituted, it was far from a major shift of what is necessary. To address the workforce crisis for individuals with disabilities will take new strategies, and a
major shift in policy, otherwise the status quo and the slow degradation of services to people with disabilities will prevail. We have a workforce crisis and shortage of direct service professionals to work with individuals, not because there is not a workforce out there, but because we refuse to pay them a livable wage! This crisis has reached epic proportions and is making individuals more vulnerable! Most legislators, except for a few champions still don’t get it. Or are not engaged. The Department of Human Services pretends to get it but remains remarkably ineffective. Instead of DHS focusing on the work-
force crisis, we have witnessed them for years kill, set back, ruin services for individuals with disabilities. And the outcome so far is gains lost, and individuals losing freedoms and worse off more vulnerable! The majority of families, individuals, and providers have been fighting and advocating relentlessly for years, unwilling to accept or rollover, and ready to take up a new strategy. A new strategy is what is necessary to remedy and address the workforce crisis and now. Otherwise we will have Comcast like programs and mergers that will kill and water down services for all, in our local and commu-
nity homes and day programs. The need for respect, better pay, and a more stable workforce for our society’s most vulnerable is yesterday! Step up to the plate Governor and the entire legislative body! This is not a partisan issue, this is not a bipartisan issue, this is not even a non-partisan issue, above all this is a human issue. Governor Walz, I implore you to do better in 2020, lives depend on it! Blessings to all that care, and are honored to know and serve individuals with disabilities. Norm Munk, Retired CEO
Awareness of elder abuse is everyone's responsibility
by Deb Taylor June 15th marked World Elder Abuse Awareness Day as designated by the United Nations. And while this is a day to be especially mindful of the reality of this abuse, millions of older adults are forced to endure it daily. Because acts like the physical or sexual abuse of a vulnerable senior are unimaginable for most people, it can be easy to think of them as isolated outliers, something heinous you hear about on the news occasionally, something that happens to other people. But according to the National Institute on Justice, ten percent of people over the age 60 are victims of elder abuse. That’s 1 out of 10 of our parents, grandparents, neighbors, mentors and friends. Sadly, Minnesota's Department of Health alone receives approximately 400 reports of elder abuse and neglect every week. Unfortunately, that’s only part of the picture: experts believe that for every case of elder abuse or neglect reported, as many as 23 cases go unreported. And that’s not even counting the crippling isolation that many older adults face every day. The vast majority of victims suffer alone in silence. The less visible acts of abuse are emo-
Deb Taylor
tional and financial. An older person can endure this for years on end, as they tend to be more nuanced rather than a single traumatic experience. It can be years of manipulating someone’s funds or assets, or years being convinced they are dependent on someone else for survival, however cruelly they are treated. It may happen
OVERSIGHT From page 1
The Jensen case covered about 300 people who had been secluded or restrained while at METO from July 1, 1997 through May 11, 2011. METO residents were restrained, secluded, and punished for infractions that were as seemingly minor as touching a pizza box. The case against METO was the catalyst in getting the Olmstead plan work underway in Minnesota. Since then there have been twice-yearly conferences and court updates on Olmstead and the Jensen settlement, to present progress and have concerns raised. The updates also provide a chance for the court to seek data as requested, on issues related to both matters. One key point of dispute continues to be allegations of abusive conduct at state-operated and licensed facilities, and the families’ call for elimination of restraints. This is seen as fundamental to the original court settlement. Another key point in Frank’s ruling is the use of the court monitor. A monitor was appointed by the court because DHS failed to engage an external reviewer to meet reporting requirements. Both sides agreed to the monitor, but recently DHS raised objections. Frank has agreed that the current monitor can step aside but reserves the right to bring him back as needed for external review, to avoid further litigation. The court is requiring DHS to have subject matter experts to review and report on practices with re-
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so slowly or subtly that the victim doesn’t even realize they are being abused until their emotional, physical, mental or financial health is left in utter disarray. So what can we do? As for the state’s part in the solution, Minnesota is currently the only state to not license assisted living facilities. Fortunately, the Minnesota House and Senate passed legislation this past May that will strengthen protections for older and vulnerable adults in long-term care residential facilities when the bill goes into effect in 2021. The bill’s licensing requirements are strong, and establish high standards to ensure that residents, including those with dementia, receive the care they need and deserve. This is an important step toward the prevention of elder abuse but, no matter the level of regulation, addressing abuse still requires vigilance and empathy from us as individuals. We need to know and educate each other on the warning signs of abuse including unexplained injuries, emotional withdrawal, and sudden changes in finances, appetite and hygiene. Preventing and stopping abuse means being open and having conversations about it. We need to share the reality of its frequency. We have to directly address individual cases while also recognizing that there often may be a sense of shame
“Unfortunately, the equitable treatment of persons with developmental disabilities in the State of Minnesota is not confined to the Jensen lawsuit.” - Donovan Frank straints by a series of deadlines this year. The order sets a series of dates to address this issue starting in August. Another issue to be addressed in the weeks ahead center on the scope of the settlement agreement and whether its provisions apply to the Minnesota Security Hospital and Anoka Regional Treatment Center. The order also covers next steps for issues of staff training, positive supports and the need for and current availability of treatment homes. The order denied plaintiffs’ request for an evidentiary hearing, pending receipt of the subject expert’s report. ■
or embarrassment on the part of the abused. We need to respect the victims’ concerns about maintaining their autonomy and dignity while also knowing when professional intervention is needed. There are solutions and resources available. If you are concerned that someone you love is being abused, report your concerns to the Minnesota Adult Reporting Center at 1-844-880-1574. No one deserves trauma or dehumanization. No one deserves to feel unsafe or hopeless in their own homes or communities. A home, a neighborhood, a family, a community are places we should all be able to turn to when we feel unsafe, overwhelmed or scared, not the reasons for feeling these ways in the first place. We need to be each other’s protectors and advocates, especially for those who are vulnerable. If we’re lucky, we will all grow old one day, but if we can’t secure a future where we are supported and protected against inhumane treatment, why would we want to? Deb Taylor is the CEO of Senior Community Services, a nonprofit that helps older adults and caregivers navigate aging to maintain independence and quality of life. We provide a wide array of programs -www.seniorcommunity.org
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July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7 From page 1 activism on local, state and federal disability rights issues. Schatzlein graduated from what is now HillMurray High School. He went on to Southwest Minnesota State in Marshall. Southwest was touted as a college intended to accommodate students with disabilities when it opened in 1967. Schatzlein, the first student body president at Southwest, worked with fellow students and school administrators to make improvements and to eliminate barriers including heavy doors, too-low sinks, too-high telephones and other issues. They also worked to help the school college create a broad-based program of disability services and supports. One focus at the school was wheelchair sports, which Schatzlein enjoyed. He loved sports including wheelchair basketball and sled hockey, and helped many others get involved in those sports. In the book Damn Bunch of Cripples: My Politically Incorrect Education in Disability Awareness, author Lew Shaver describes his introduction to wheelchair sports thanks to Schatzlein. That interest in sports continued with a Jennifer Mundl focus on making facilities accessible. “Within the past ten years, I’ve had the pleasure to work alongside of John addressing accessibility at many of the public stadiums,” said Bangsberg. “One of those achievements was notably the Target Field which received national recognition for its accessible design. “John’s passion to make the world a better place for people with disabilities was always part of his mission in life,” said Bangsberg. He remembers his friend as someone who wasn’t afraid to call out people who weren’t working in the best interests of those with disabilities. “I cannot remember the first time I met John, but I do remember his presence,” Bangsberg said. “John was always very talkative and wanted to help in any way he could.” He recalled their work together in the early 1980s, before the reauthorization of the Rehabilitation Act. “He helped Margot Imdieke and me put by-laws together for the then Consumer Advisory Council (which is now the State Rehabilitation Council) at the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) before the name changed to Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS). He was in front of issues before laws were enacted to address these issues.” “We also worked on co-location with the Minnesota Workforce Centers which was controversial in those days.” His professional life took him to the University of Minnesota, Sister Kenny Institute and Catholic Charities. He also worked as a consultant. Much of his work centered on disability advocacy. He wrote for Access Press, New Mobility and other publications. Schatzlein served on many state, regional and local advisory committees centered on disability, access and transportation issues. He was a strong and constant presence at the state capitol during legislative sessions. Schatzlein was also very involved in disability rights and ADA issues in his hometown of Bloomington. He appeared in videos for the city, educating others about access and the ADA. In videos he talked about the days before curb cuts, automatic door openers and other accommodations, recalling how people in wheelchairs had to do wheelies and other maneuvers to get wheelchairs onto a sidewalk. Otherwise, he and others traveled in the street. He enjoyed his family and friends, and using an array of tools in a cluttered garage workshop. He was a man of strong faith. He also had an irreverent and humorous side. Longtime friend John Tschida recalled that Schatzlein was always one of the first to reach out to others who had sustained spinal cord injuries, including Tschida himself. Tschida remembers Schatzlein as a man of great faith, and recalled this quote of his: “Take the time to really look around to see, hear, smell, and feel the greatness of life around us. At the same time, see the realness of the less-than-desirable elements. Choose to reenergize yourself. Choose to make a difference in the community where you live. Choose to assist others in their efforts to change the wrongs. We can only control our own choices. Choose to care.”
Mundl was assistive tech guru
“I have always looked beyond a disability and focused on what a person can do. Everyone is unique and everyone is a gift. Through creativity and knowledge, we can all impact the world today.” - Jennifer Mundl Mundl was 17 when a 1982 gymnastics accident resulted in a severe spinal cord injury. She was paralyzed from the neck down and was left a ventilator-dependent quadriplegic. After a lengthy hospitalization and rehabilitation, Mundl persevered to continue her education. She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She went on to help develop the assistive technology program at Courage Center, now Courage Kenny, starting the program in 1991 and becoming the lead assistive technology specialist. She was a contributor to Access Press, writing on assistive technology issues. She enjoyed sharing news of new devices with others. She also very much enjoyed watching people, especially children, try out new devices. She was a keen observer of what worked and what didn’t. Nancy Huizenga, director of Courage Kenny Community Services, quoted Mundl. “It is about what we do with our life and how we react to roadblocks in
MUNDL FAMILY
REMEMBERED
Pg 5
front of us.” “She expertly navigated the roadblocks in front of her and embraced the roadblocks experienced by the individuals she served and colleagues she supported,” Huizenga said. “As the inspirational founder and lead staff of the assistive technology services at Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, she shared her tremendous knowledge, expertise and practical experience with all of us. She demonstrated her commitment to the disability community and the assistive technology field in countless ways. Her contributions live on throughout the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute and the community.” Tschida worked with Mundl at Courage Center. “Jen helped countless people realize how technology could make them more independent. She was a great teacher and listener,” he said. “At Courage Center it wasn't the high or low-tech equipment that made our AT lab exceptional. It was Jen.” Mundl was often honored for her work. She was the 2011 recipient of the Shining Star of Perseverance Award, given by Assurant Employee Benefits. Mundl earned the distinction because of the fortitude and determination she demonstrated since her 1982 accident. REMEMBERED To page 15
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
Pg 6
REGIONAL NEWS Direct support crisis studied
Access lawsuit is settled
A disability rights activist has settled with the city of Chaska for blocking his access to the city’s public social media accounts. Waconia resident Noah McCourt received a $1,005 settlement. He is policy director of the Minnesota Autism Council and a member of the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities. The city was ordered to unblock his access, revise social media policies and train staffers on First Amendment applications to social media accounts. McCourt will have his legal fees reimbursed. McCourt was blocked from the Chaska Police Department’s Twitter account and from making comments on the police Facebook page. McCourt said he criticized the Chaska police for “unnecessary roughness and aggression” when dealing with people with disabilities. He had also posted that Knight had “a very large ego.” The city and McCourt agreed on an offer of judgment, under which the city agreed to the payment and policy changes in order to avoid lengthy litigation. City officials are reviewing the “terms of use” policies on those accounts, said Kevin
new data will give lawmakers the tools to make decisions in the next legislative session that could drive better pay and cheaper health insurance. The problem of high turnover with DSPs hit one Bloomington family really hard when agencies told them they simply didn't have any workers to help them, so they had to take matters in their own hands. “For us, it feels really personal. This is our daughter, this is just our beloved Raising wages for support staff has long been a focus for disability rights child,” Cindy Reed activists,. including this young woman at the state capitol a couple of years ago. told KSTP-TV. Eighteen-year-old The Reed family said Hennepin Eva Reed loves to dance and do crafts. County grants cover the cost of care for She's creative and enjoys being active in the DSPs they hire, but it's not enough the community and opened up about for all of the in and out-of-home care what it's like to live with cerebral palsy. they need. "It's, um, pretty great, because it's Read the full report at https://tinyurl. fun, and sometimes it's not," Eva said. com/y3cktfbv Cindy Reed said the family was Read the worker survey at https:// forced to find someone on their own to tinyurl.com/yxtj9jwd help Eva because high turnover caused (Source: KSTP-TV) a shortage of staff at agencies around the state. FILE PHOTO
Organizations across Minnesota that supply direct support professionals (DSPs) for people with disabilities and elders are all too familiar with staff shortages and high turnover. The University of Minnesota, in conjunction with the state, set out to collect concrete data on the problem. The University of Minnesota's new study, in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Human Services, surveyed the agencies that support DSPs, as well as the workers. This produced two different final reports. It was found that the average hourly rate for DSPs across the state is less than $12 an hour, which contributes to high turnover rates. For full-time DSPs, fewer than 60 percent get paid time-off and less than 40 percent get paid sick leave. And, of the DSPs surveyed, 90 percent said they left for a job that pays more and nearly 70 percent left for a job that offered better benefits. “In Minnesota, for every worker that's employed on January 1st of a year, by December 31st, about 40 percent of them have left their positions," said Amy Hewitt, director of the U of M's Institute on Community Integration (ICI). “If there was anything that was surprising it's the congruence. The workers see the problem and their employers and organizations see the problem,” she said. It is hoped that the
Wright, the city’s communications manager. “For me it was never really about the money,” McCourt said. “It’s more like people just deserve to be treated equitably.” More such cases are likely to arise as governments navigate the intersection of speech and freedom of information laws and social media, said Don Gemberling, spokesman for the Minnesota Coalition on Government Information. A private entity, including Twitter and Facebook, can delete content or block users for any reason. But government is required by the First Amendment to permit most speech. (Source: Star Tribune)
Hospital construction underway
Construction is officially underway on a new psychiatric hospital in Willmar that will provide specialized treatment to children and teens from across Minnesota who have severe mental illness and behavior disorders. DHS Commissioner Tony Lourey joined state lawmakers, mental health professionals and advocates, city and county officials and community leaders at the ceremonial groundbreaking in June for the Child and Adolescent
Behavioral Health Hospital. The hospital opens in 2020. “This new hospital is an investment in the health and futures of children who are facing some extraordinary challenges,” said Lourey. “It will provide greater safety for patients and staff; a more inviting, comfortable and therapeutic atmosphere; and more privacy and dignity to the children treated here.” The $10 million hospital replaces an existing facility that is outdated. It will serve more children. The current hospital must limit admissions, causing long waiting lists or forcing families to other states for treatment. The 18,000-square foot hospital features three wings and 16 private patient rooms, each with its own bathroom. Patients can be grouped by age and condition. Personal retreat space and ample play areas are planned. Children ages 4 to 18 with complex mental illnesses and behavior disorders who cannot be treated in their home communities will be served. In many cases, patients have multiple diagnoses that range from brain and behavior disorders to psychiatric and traumatic stress conditions. “Getting the right care at the right time in the right place is crucial for children
struggling with serious mental illness,” said Rep. Dave Baker, R-Willmar, a leading advocate on behalf of people with mental illness. (Source: Minnesota Department of Human Services)
Lawsuit filed over firing
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed a lawsuit in June, claiming a Duluth lumber company terminated an employee because of his disability. The EEOC alleges that BlueLinx, formally Lake States Lumber, discriminated against forklift driver Eric Stauber when they terminated his employment due to his disability. According to court documents, Stauber required heart surgery in November 2015. On February 10, 2016, Stauber was released by his doctor to return to work with no restrictions. He submitted a doctor's note to BlueLinx saying as such. When Stauber returned to work he was placed in a different job and restrictions were imposed on his work, court documents said. About nine days later, Stauber was told by his managers that he could no longer perform any jobs at their facility and was terminated, court documents said. The EEOC is asking for Stauber to be compensated for past and future wage loss as well as medical expenses and retirement or pension contributions not covered in BlueLinx's employee benefit plan. It is also asking that Stauber be compensated for past and future emotional pain, suffering inconvenience and mental anguish. All amounts would be determined at trial. BlueLinx is a manufacturer and wholesale distributor of building products that specializes in servicing retail building material dealers. The company has locations in Aitkin, Brooklyn Park, Duluth, Schofield, Wis., and Sparta, Wis. When asked for a comment on the lawsuit, BlueLinx said as a matter of policy they do not comment on pending litigation. (Source: Duluth News-Tribune)
Resident dies after falls
Operators of a St. Louis Park nursing home did little to keep a resident from repeatedly falling within a few months' time before an injury from a fall killed him, according to Minnesota Department of Health investigators. The Estates at St. Louis Park “did not comprehensively assess, determine causal factors or implement new interventions to prevent additional falls,” according to details of the recently released state investigation. The ongoing negligence occurred until the man's death in January, the investigation found, despite the resident's care plan noting that he had a history of falling. Talia Fletcher, the nursing home's
REGIONAL NEWS To page 15
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July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
DIRECTORY of Organizations
Pg 7
ADVOCACY Advocating Change Together (ACT)
V-651-641-0297
TF-800-641-0059
www.selfadvocacy.org
Arc Greater Twin Cities
V-952-920-0855
F-952-920-1480
www.arcgreatertwincities.org
The Arc of Minnesota
V-651-523-0823x115
F-651-523-0829
www.thearcofminnesota.org
Association of Residential Resources in MN
V-651-291-1086
TTY-800-551-2211
www.arrm.org
Cow Tipping Press
V-507-521-2278
MCIL
V-651-646-8342
F-651-603-2066
www.mcil-mn.org
MN Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities
V-952-818-8718
F-952-818-8719
www.mnccd.org
PACER Center, Inc.
V-952-838-9000
TTY-952-838-0190
www.pacer.org
SEIU Healthcare Minnesota
TF-855-282-3769
www.UnitedCareWorkersMN.org
United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota
V-651-265-7361
www.ucpmn.org
www.cowtippingpress.org
ASSISTED LIVING V-651-645-7271
TTY-800-466-7722
www.accessiblespace.org
V-612-789-1236
F-612-706-5555
www.actg.org
V-763-754-2505
TF-888-255-6400
www.marytinc.com
V-612-224-9101
aburke@cipmn.org
www.cipmn.org
Avivo
V-612-752-8111
F-612-752-8101
www.avivomn.org
Vinland National Center
V/TTY-763-479-3555 F-763-479-2605
www.vinlandcenter.org
DeafBlind Services Minnesota (DBSM)
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
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
Reach for Resources
V-952-200-3030
F-952-229-4468
www.reachforresources.org
SMILES Center for Independent Living
V/TTY-507-345-7139 TF-888-676-6498
Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI)
AUTISM SERVICES A Chance to Grow
CASE MANAGEMENT Community Involvement Programs (CIP)
Vinland Center provides drug and alcohol treatment for adults with cognitive disabilities. We make all possible accommodations for cognitive deficits and individual learning styles. Located in Loretto, Minnesota — just 20 miles west of Minneapolis.
BRAIN INJURY Mary T. Inc. Supportive Living Programs
Canoeing at Vinland’s main campus in Loretto, Minnesota
CHEMICAL HEALTH
COMMUNITY LIVING
www.smilescil.org
CONSUMER-DIRECTED COMMUNITY SUPPORTS Accra
V-952-935-3515
TF-866-935-3515
www.accracare.org
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
SMILES Center for Independent Living
V/TTY-507-345-7139 TF-888-676-6498
www.smilescil.org
866.956.7612 • VinlandCenter.org
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
Pg 8
DIRECTORY of Organizations EDUCATION Avivo Institute of Career & Tech Education
V-612-752-8100
Children's Theatre Company
V-612-879-2680
F-612-752-8101
www.resource-mn.org
Upstream Arts
V-612-331-4584
F-612-353-6638
www.upstreamarts.org
Avivo
V-612-752-8100
F-612-752-8101
www.resource-mn.org
Chrestomathy, Inc.
V-952-974-0339
F-952-974-0307
www.chrestomathyinc.org
Community Involvement Programs (CIP)
V-612-353-4595
V-952-854-9411
www.cipmn.org
Courage Kenny Rehabilition Institute
V-612-775-2569
Fraser Transition Services
V-612-767-5180
Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota
V-651-379-5800
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
Merrick, Inc.
V-651-789-6231
F-651-789-9960
www.merrickinc.org
Metro Work Center, Inc.
V/TTY-612-729-7381
F-612-729-7382
www.metroworkcenter.org
MSS, Inc.
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
MRCI Worksource
V-612-386-5600
F-507-345-5991
www.mrciworksource.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 Program
V-952-746-6206
F-952-746-6209
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-800-707-1711
TTY-800-688-2534
www.ucare.org
www.childrenstheatre.org
EMPLOYMENT/VOCATION
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www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny www.fraser.org F-651-379-5803
www.goodwilleasterseals.org
HEALTH CARE PLANS UCare
HEARING IMPAIRMENT Hearing Loss Association of America-TC Chapter V-763-447-1711
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www.hlaatc.org
Looking for us online?
Access Press has an interim, website, until a new site can be built. Find news and information about Minnesota’s disability community at
https://nonprofitcharity.org/ And watch for a new website soon!
Immediate openings Marshall, Willmar and Hibbing, Minnesota
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763-754-2505
www.marytinc.com • info@marytinc.com www.facebook.com/maryt.inc
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
DIRECTORY of Organizations HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES A Chance to Grow
V-612-789-1236
V-612-706-5555
www.actg.org
Community Involvement Programs (CIP)
V-612-362-4434
V-612-362-4452
www.cipmn.org
In Home Personal Care
V-763-546-1000
F-763-546-1018
www.inhomepersonalcare.com
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
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
Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI)
V-651-645-7271
TTY-800-466-7722
www.accessiblespace.org
Ebenezer Park Apartments
V-612-879-2233
TTY-612-879-8889
www.fairviewebenezer.org
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
HOUSING-RENTAL
INFORMATION/REFERRAL RESOURCES ADA Minnesota; a program within MCIL
V-651-603-2015
TF-888-630-9793
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
www.ucpmn.org
INSURANCE AssuredPartners of Minnesota, LLC
V-651-294-0710
TF-800-886-7201
F-651-644-9137
V-612-334-5970
TF-800-292-4150
www.mndlc.org
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
F-612-752-8001
www.avivomn.org
Community Involvement Programs (CIP)
V-612-362-4434
V-612-362-4452
www.cipmn.org
Fraser
V-612-861-1688
F-612-861-6050
www.fraser.org
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 F-763-479-2605
www.vinlandcenter.org
Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare
V-651-290-8707
www.gillettechildrens.org
Wound Healing Center
V-715-268-0175
MENTAL HEALTH
PHYSICIANS TTY-715-268-0177
www.AmeryMedicalCenter.org
RECREATION-ADAPTIVE HOBBY/EXERCISE/SPORTS/ARTS Courage Kenny Rehabilition Institute
V-612-775-2277
Highland Friendship Club
V-651-698-4096
218-726-4762
www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny www.highlandfriendshipclub.org
Mind Body Solutions
V-952-473-3700
www.mindbodysolutions.org
Reach for Resources
V-952-200-3030
F-952-229-4468
www.reachforresources.org
Upstream Arts
V-612-331-4584
F-612-353-6638
www.upstreamarts.org
RECREATION-DINING/BARS/CLUBS Highland Friendship Club
V-651-698-4096
www.highlandfriendshipclub.org
RECREATION-MOVIES/PERFORMING ARTS/SPECTATOR SPORTS/MUSEUM Children's Theatre Company
V-612-874-0400
www.childrenstheatre.org
Highland Friendship Club
V-651-698-4096
www.highlandfriendshipclub.org
RECREATION-TRAVEL/CAMPING Hammer Travel
V-952-277-2458
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
Pg 9
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July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
DIRECTORY of Organizations 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
DeafBlind Services of Minnesota (DBSM)
V-612-362-8454
TTY-612-362-8422
www.dbsmllc.org
Fraser
V-612-767-5180
F-612-861-6050
www.fraser.org
Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare
V-651-291-2848
TF-800-719-4040
www.gillettechildrens.org
In Home Personal Care
V-763-546-1000
F-763-546-1018
www.inhomepersonalcare.com
RESIDENTIAL/GROUP HOME PROGRAMS Community Involvement Programs (CIP)
V-612-362-4403
F-612-362-4417
www.cipmn.org
Fraser
V-612-861-1688
F-612-861-6050
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
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-651-644-2665x100
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
F-952-988-9296
www.helpingpaws.org
SERVICE ANIMALS Pawsitive Perspectives Assistance Dogs (PawPADs) V-612-643-5671
www.PawPADS.org
SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES Ebenezer Care Center
V-612-879-2262
TTY-612-879-8889
www.fairviewebenezer.org
V-952-767-3350
F-952-767-3351
www.restartincmn.org
SOCIAL SERVICES Restart, Inc.
TECHNOLOGY Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare
V-651-290-8707
www.gillettechildrens.org
PACER Center, Inc.
V-952-838-9000
SMILES Center for Independent Living
V/TTY-507-345-7139 TF-888-676-6498
TTY-952-838-0190
www.pacer.org
www.smilescil.org
TRANSPORTATION RENTAL/SALES/MODIFICATION V-651-635-0655
TF-800-788-7479
www.imedmobility.com
Vision Loss Resources
V-612-843-3400
F-612-872-0189
www.visionlossresources.org
Volunteer Braille Services
V-763-544-2880
F-763-544-3612
www.vbsmn.org
IMED Mobility
VISION IMPAIRMENT
WAIVER CASE MANAGEMENT Fraser
V-612-861-1688
F-612-861-6050
www.fraser.org
Reach for Resources
V-952-200-3030
F-952-229-4468
www.reachforresources.org
Be part Of our Directory Of Organizations! Next edition: October 2019 24/7 online Contact Dawn today! 651-644-2133 or dawn@accesspress.org
Hire people you know and trust. Get started with PCA Choice: 651-454-2732 | lifeworks.org Serving Minnesota for more than 50 years
Pg 10
W & W Incorporation
Providing Representative Payee Services to Minnesotan Communities
Incorporation Who WeW&W Are W & W Inc. was created to help fill the void in our communities. Certain individuals are in a position where they receive monetary benefits from the Social Security Administration, but are unable to manage those funds. Ideally, there is a family member or friend who is capable to fulfill this role, but more frequently than we would like, there is no one who can help, the government must appoint a third-party. That is the function of W&W. We step in and provide a watchful eye that the most vulnerable members of society need. What We Do • Ensure that the basic needs of the beneficiary are met; • Help motivate beneficiaries to work towards more independent living; • Provide an annual accounting for each beneficiary as to how their benefits are used.
P.O. Box St. Paul,StMN 55104 PO40558, Box 40558, Paul, MN 551 PH: 651.330.0610 Tel 651.410.4 dly@wnwincgmail.c FAX: 651.600.3966 dlywnwinc@gmail.com
Want to work, but concerned about benefits?
W&W Incorporati
Our certified benefits counselors can help you.
We provide clear, accurate answers about the effect of work on benefits for people with disabilities.
a program of Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota
Call us today:
651-632-5113 • 1-800-976-6728 (711) MNWorkIncentives.com
PO Box 40558, St Paul, MN Tel 651.4 The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) is the nation's dly@wnwincgm leading organization representing people with hearing loss. DIRECTORY OF ORGANIZATIONS MEMBER
HLAA believes people can help one another, be helped, and participate successfully in society. The primary purpose is to educate ourselves, our relatives and friends about the causes, nature and complications of hearing loss and what can be done about it. Members work to develop options for themselves and open doors for others. HLAA encourages everyone to practice self help to bridge the communication gap between those who can't hear well and those who can. Montly meetings are held on the 3rd Saturday for the months of September through May at the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute. Everyone gathers at 9:30 a.m. to socialize and meetings begin at 10 a.m.
Phone: (763) 447-9672 • Online: www.hlaatc.org Did you know you can join the Directory for $60/yr? Available online year-round and in four print editions.
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
ENJOY! ProAct Golf Classic
Highland Friendship Club and its members will celebrate the 29th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with The Art of Me, a collection of self-expression artistic works. The event is Wed, July 17 at the Minnesota History Center – 3M Auditorium, 345 Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. An opening reception starts at 5 p.m., with performances getting underway at 6:30 pm. The event is free and all are welcome to attend. The members of Highland Friendship Club have greatly appreciated and enjoyed expressing themselves through many forms of art: filmmaking, art, photography, storytelling and performing. Club members said they wanted to combine many forms of art to show the world what self-advocacy and the ADA has meant to them. The project is funded through the Minnesota State Arts Board and involves club supporters. Upstream Arts, Cow Tipping Press and Mike Nichols Video assisted with theater, writing and video workshops for adults with disabilities, ending in original student work presented in a video screening, reading and theater piece. It is truly a collaborative celebration. Club members enrolled in three workshop series for six to 17 weeks each, over a 22-week period. Each workshop focused on different artistic skills. Video participants learned basic videography skills culminating in an original piece of videography shared publicly. Literary workshop participants explored several genres through excerpts of existing texts and original responses to them culminating in a book of original writing shared in a public reading. Participants with Upstream Arts used improv, poetry, painting, song, dance and theater to create an original work. The session will end with a performance of an original, structured theater improv piece that includes original writing and video from the other two sessions. Students in the videography sessions are documenting the entire project to be shared on social media and with the Highland Friendship Club community. The public performances and materials shared on social media will provide new creative experiences for HFC members and help neuro-typical audiences understand the creative capacity of people with disabilities. See more at www.highlandfriendshipclub.org
Splitting the Light: Welcoming Nature Back Gallery Reception Artist with disabilities Lilli Sprintz’s show, Splitting the Light: Welcoming Nature Back, is hosted by Sabes JCC, 4330 Cedar Lake Rd S, Mpls. The show opened July 8 and continues through Aug. 20. Reception is 2-3:30 p.m. Sun, July 21. Over the course of her life, Sprintz has lived in many different environments exposing her to the vastness of nature that would inevitably inspire her work and love of nature. From the landscapes of Philadelphia to the red cardinals of Cincinnati and most recently to the lakes and blue skies of Minnesota – which is considered home for Sprintz. Hebrew letters in Lilli’s work are used as symbols, which communicate messages; some are prayers. All of this is about how much Sprintz loves nature and wants to protect it. FFI: www.sabesjcc.org/ programs/arts-culture/art-exhibitions/
Bakken Museum Sensory Friendly Sunday Bakken Museum, 3537 Zenith Ave S, Mpls. offers Sensory Friendly Sundays, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. the second Sun of every month. Next date: May 12. The days allow people with autism spectrum disorders and sensory processing differences to have an enjoyable and interactive learning experience in a comfortable and accepting environment. Events include modified programming for diverse sensory needs and specialized staff training. Bakken Museum is the world's only library and museum devoted to medical electricity. Its SF program was developed in consultation with AuSM. The museum will continue be open to the general public from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sun. Activities are free with museum admission, which starts at $10 for adults and includes discounts for children and seniors. FFI: www.thebakken.org
Science Museum Sensory Friendly Sundays Science Museum of Minnesota, 120 Kellogg Blvd. W., St. Paul, hosts Sensory Friendly Sundays, 9 a.m. Sun, July 21. Early access to galleries, and a lights-up, sounds-down Omnitheater show, which starts at 9 a.m. Tickets $8.95 to $24.95. Discounts for individuals, families and groups with limited incomes and free for working direct support staff when visiting with a client. Other tools for making a museum visit successful for visitors with autism and other sensory processing issues include pre-visit social narratives available for download online, SF companion scripts for Omnitheater films, noise-dampening headphones, SF visitors’ guide, and a renovated wellness room designed to give visitors a private, out-of-the-way space to nurse a child, pray or simply recharge away from the hustle and bustle of a busy museum. Located on Level 4 near the Native American exhibition, the room is outfitted with soft lighting, a door that locks, a changing table, rocking chair, and other seating. Ask at the exhibits entrance for sound dampening headphones, a timer, or a kit containing headphones, fidgets, gloves, and sunglasses. It is available to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. The program was created in consultation with the Autism Society of Minnesota (AusM). FFI: 651-2219444 or 800-221-9444, www.smm.org
Guys and Dolls Guthrie Theater presents Damon Runyon’s Broadway fable at Guthrie Theater, Wurtele Thrust, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD and ASL offered 1 p.m. Sat, July 13. Free sensory tour available at 10:30 a.m. OC offered 1 p.m. Wed, July 17; Sat, July 27 and Sun, July 28. AD and OC offered 7:30 p.m. Fri, July 19. ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Fri, July 26. Tickets reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for OC. FFI: 612-377-2224, www.guthrietheater.org Legally Blonde Lyric Arts Company of Anoka presents the story of Elle Woods and her adventures at Harvard Law School, at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, July 14. ASL interpreters are provided at the first Sun performance of each regular season production if a reservation is made three weeks before the show (reserved by Sun, June 23). If no ASL seating has been reserved, the ASL interpretation will be canceled and seats will be released to the general public. When ordering tickets, please indicate the need for seating in the ASL section. Lyric Arts reserves seats in Row I for parties including persons using wheelchairs or with limited mobility. Assisted listening devices available on request. Tickets $30-34; $5 discount for ASL seats. FFI: 763-4221838, www.lyricarts.org Grease Duluth Playhouse presents the original rock and roll musical, at NorShor Theatre, 211 E. Superior St., Duluth. ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Thu, July 18. Tickets $35-$50, student rush $25. To reserve an ASL viewing seat, call 218-733-7555. (Make ticket reservations sooner than later. FFI: www. duluthplayhouse.org Planetarium Show: One Giant Leap Bell Museum, 2088 Larpenteur Ave. W., St. Paul, hosts a limited run show honoring the 50th anniversary of the Apollo moon landing. OC offered 3:30 p.m. Sat, July 20 and 11:30 a.m. Sun, Aug. 25. Tickets $6$8. Planetarium tickets go on sale three weeks before the date of the show. Pre-purchasing is recommended because shows sell out. FFI: 612626-9660, www.bellmuseum.umn.edu Sisters of Swing: The Story of the Andrews Sisters Maplewood Area Historical Society presents the story of the Minnesota-born singers, at Bruentrup Heritage Farm, 2170 County Rd D E., Maplewood. AD offered 7 p.m. Sat, July 20. Large-print playbills available. Tickets $20 general admission, $30 VIP (reserved), $10 for AD patrons or young adults ages 13-24. FFI: 651-748-8645, www. maplewoodhistoricalsociety.org
Pg 11
Self-expression is the way to spotlight the ADA
Sensory Friendly Sunday at the Walker Walker Art Center, 725 Vineland Place, Mpls, hosts Sensory Friendly Suns, 8-11 a.m. Sun, July 14 and Aug. 11. Free. It is a monthly event for kids, teens and adults with autism spectrum disorder or sensory sensitivities and their families, offering the opportunity to make art together, explore the galleries, watch a short film, or just hang out in a different setting. The galleries will be closed to all other visitors, allowing guests to enjoy the museum in a safe environment where accommodations such as quiet spaces, headphones and fidgets can be provided. In order to ensure an optimal experience and avoid crowds, reserve space ahead of time online. This program was created in consultation with AuSM and the University of Minnesota’s Occupational Therapy Program. FFI: 612-375-7610, www.walkerart.org
Lyngblomsten Mid-Summer Festival The Festival celebrates how Lyngblomsten promotes artistic exploration, wellness and lifelong learning for older adults at the facility at1415 Almond Ave., St. Paul. Artists with disabilities featured. ASL offered 2-8 p.m. Fri, July 19, during the entire festival. Entire facility is wheelchair accessible. Free admission. Charges for food and activities. Schedule is online. FFI: Andrea Lewandoski, 651-646-2941, www.lyngblomsten.org
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
Mamma Mia! Chanhassen Dinner Theatres presents the story of a girl, her mother and her three possible fathers, at 501 W. 78th St., Chanhassen. AD offered 1 p.m. Wed, July 24, with lunch at 11 a.m. Online, enter the promotional code ASL. Tickets $15 discount off regular price ($68 dinner and show, show only $53.) FFI: 952-934-1525, www.ChanhassenDT.com Mary Poppins Cross Community Players presents the tale of a magical nanny, at Maple Grove Senior High auditorium, 9800 Fernbrook Ln N, Maple Grove. ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Thu, July 25. AD offered 2 p.m. Sat, July 27. Tickets $18 adult. ASL patrons and AD patrons half-price up to two tickets. Other discounts available. Patrons are invited to bring a non-perishable food item for the local food shelf. FFI: 763-391-278, www.crossplayers.org 29th Anniversary Celebration of the ADA Several Minnesota disability groups present the state’s Americans with Disabilities Act celebration, 1-4 p.m. Fri, July 26 at Hamline University’s Anderson Center, 774 Snelling Ave. N., St. Paul. ASL, AD, OC and other accommodations offered. To request other accommodations, contact (by July 17) Cindy Tarshish at ADA Minnesota, 651-603-2015 or cindyt@mcilmn.org. The collaborative event by many disability organizations marks the 29th anniversary of signing the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. Minnesota Department of Human Rights Commissioner Rebecca Lucero will launch the celebration by grounding us in the importance of the ADA to ensure everyone can lead full lives, rich with dignity and joy, and free from discrimination. More perspectives on discrimination and the ADA will be featured in a panel discussion, and by featured performer Gaelynn Lea, violinist/singer/songwriter, and 2016 NPR Tiny Desk Contest winner. Refreshments provided. Sponsors include Access Press, ADA Minnesota, City of Duluth Commission on Disabilities, City of Mpls, Hamline University Archives and Office of Disability Resources, Hennepin County Government, Metropolitan Center for Independent Living, MN Council on Disability, MN Departments of Human Rights, Human Services and Transportation; MN Disability Law Center, and VSA Minnesota. FFI: www.disability.state.mn.us Agatha Christie’s Rule of Thumb Park Square Theater presents three one-act mysteries: The Wasp’s Nest, The Rats and The Patient at Park Square Theatre, Proscenium, 20 W. 7th Place, St. Paul. AD offered 7:30 p.m. Fri, July 26. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, July 28. OC offered 7:30 p.m. Fri-Sat, Aug. 9-10 and 2 p.m. Sun, Aug. 11. Assistive listening devices available. ASL/AD/OC single ticket discount
is half-price for patron and one guest with code ACC (regular $40, $60; previews $27, $37). Other discounts available. FFI: 651-291-7005, www. parksquaretheatre.org Jeeves Takes a Bow Theatre in the Round Players presents the tale of hapless hero Bertie Wooster, at Theatre in the Round, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD offered 2 p.m. Sun, July 21. Tactile tour at 1 p.m. upon request based on reservations. Large-print programs and assisted-listening devices available at every performance. Tickets $22. Discounts available. FFI: 612-333-3010, www.theatreintheround.org Glensheen History Theatre presents a dark musical about an infamous Minnesota murder, at History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. OC offered 7:30 p.m. Sat, July 27 and 2 p.m. Sun, July 28. AD and ASL offered upon advance request. The accessible entrance is on the east side of the building off Cedar Street. The theatre has six spaces for wheelchairs, plus companion seats. Hearing enhancement devices and Braille or large print playbills are available Tickets reduced to $25 for OC patrons (regular $58-65). FFI: 651-292-4323, www.historytheatre.com Minnesota Orchestra Family Concert: Joyful Rhythms, Joyful Sounds Minnesota Orchestra presents a SF, all-ages and abilities concert at Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Mpls, 2 p.m. Sun, July 28. Doors open at noon. OC and ASL offered. A program with a wide range of musical offerings is designed for people on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities. Participate in preshow lobby activities (12:45-1:45 p.m.), including opportunities to try orchestral instruments, engage in creative movement, participate in collaborative art-making, learn more about the program and meet Minnesota Orchestra musicians. Audience members are welcome to be who they are and enjoy music with family and friends. Fidgets, noise-canceling headphones, and quiet spaces are available. Attendees can access online preparatory materials one month before ENJOY! To page 15
Our award-winning access services can help make your visit a memorable one. Connect with us to learn more.
612.377.2224 / guthrietheater.org accessibility@guthrietheater.org Access programs at the Guthrie are sponsored by Travelers, Medtronic and Xcel Foundation
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
Pg 12
OPPORTUNITIES
Disability issues take on urgency ADVOCACY
Be ready for change VSA Minnesota, the statewide arts community-building organization, closes at the end of September. VSA Executive Director Craig Dunn is visiting five communities to do a final overview of arts access and disability awareness information as a service to the state arts community. Each workshop is 1-4 p.m. at the following locations: Wed, July 17, Gremlin Theatre, Annex Building, Vandalia Crossing, 550 Vandalia St, St. Paul; Tue, July 30, St. Cloud Central Library, Bremer Community Room 104, 1300 W St Germain St., St. Cloud; Wed, July 31, Rochester Civic Music, Rochester Government Center, Room 104, 201 4th St. SE, Rochester; Tue, Aug. 13, Historic Holmes Theatre, 806 Summit Ave., Detroit Lakes; and Tue, August 20, Reif Arts Center, 720 NW Conifer Dr., Grand Rapids Workshops are designed to share accessibility and disability information collected, compiled and developed by VSA Minnesota over the past 33 years and to answer questions about audience accommodations, disability etiquette and emerging trends in the field of arts access. Electronic resource lists, internet links and suggestions of people to contact will be made available to all attendees at the three-hour gatherings. Light refreshments provided at each location. Arts administrators, board members and any others interested in access to the arts for people with disabilities. Free but pre-register and let staff know name and organization, which workshop attending, and if accommodations are needed. FFI: Craig Dunn, 612-332-3888, craig@vsamn.org Emergency communications campaign The Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, DeafBlind & Hard of Hearing (MNCDHH) has launched an emergency communications accessibility campaign, to ensure that news coverage is inclusive to all Minnesotans, whatever their hearing status or primary language may be. The campaign will increase media awareness to the importance of communication equity while covering weather-related emergencies and other disasters. The campaign encourages media to voluntarily include American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting teams during media briefings and updates, such as news conferences and other emergency related events. Providing this will help share important information in a timely manner with a population that relies on these services to be informed, and most importantly, safe. Twenty percent of Minnesota’s population has some degree of hearing loss, which may prevent them from obtaining potentially life-saving information. The need for the campaign stemmed from a recent gubernatorial flood emergency declaration, when TV crews zoomed past two ASL interpreters at the announcement and didn’t show the interpretation. As part of the campaign, MNCDHH has posted a video link on its’ website with suggested screen framing of newsmakers and sign language interpreters. Written guidelines on newsgathering using sign language interpreters and captioning to distribute to all newsroom employees are also located on the site: https://mn.gov/deaf-commission/ about/media/accessible/
CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Mental health and learning disabilities forum PACER Center hosts a symposium about children and young adults with mental health and learning disabilities, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon, Aug. 12 at Mpls. Convention Center. The symposium is designed to help parents and professionals better identify and address mental health and learning disabilities in children and youth. It will provide high-quality training and resources regarding children’s mental health and learning disabilities, effective treatment, and positive teaching and intervention strategies. Registration fee $35. Lunch provided. Administrator and teacher CEU hours will be available. FFI: 952-838-9000, www.pacer.org PACER workshop sampling PACER Center offers many useful free or low-cost workshops and other resources for families of children with any disabilities. Workshops are at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, unless specified. Workshops are offered throughout the state, with some workshops available online. Advance registration is required for all workshops. At least 48 hours’ notice is needed for interpretation. Many 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. Free but advance registration required. FFI: PACER, 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237, www.pacer.org
INFO & ASSISTANCE
Hope for Recovery Workshop NAMI Minnesota hosts a free workshop that provides information on mental illnesses, treatments, crisis management, suicide prevention, the mental health system and local resources along with practical strategies for helping a loved one or friend. It will be held 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat, June 22 at NAMI Minnesota, 1919 University Ave. W., Suite 400, St. Paul. Workshop includes learning the LEAP strategy for improving communication: Listen, Empathize, Agree-on what you can, and Partner. This workshop is for family and friends of a teen or adult living with a mental illness and people living with a mental illness who are doing well in their recovery. Preregister. FFI: 651-645-2948 or see classes, www.namimn.org QPR - Suicide Prevention Classes QPR is a free, one-hour presentation sponsored by NAMI Minnesota (National Alliance on Mental Illness) that covers the three steps anyone can learn to help prevent suicide - Question, Persuade and Refer. Just like CPR, QPR is an emergency response to someone in crisis and can save lives. QPR is the most widely taught gatekeeper training program in the United States, and more than one million adults have been trained/ Classes offered noon-1 p.m. Mon, July 15 and 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wed, July 24 at NAMI Minnesota, 1919 University Ave., W., Suite 400, St. Paul. FFI: 651-645-2948 x198 or see “classes” at namimn.org Classes and support in Sauk Rapids Independent Lifestyles, Inc., 215 North Benton Dr., Sauk Rapids, offers many groups and classes, for free or a small fee. One is Adult Social Activity, with snacks, crafts and bingo, 1-3 p.m. on the fourth Wed of each month. Advocates for Independence meet 2-4 p.m. fourth Wed, for persons with disabilities who wish to increase leadership and assertiveness skills. Learn self-dense and improve fitness with a free one-month introductory classes, for both adapted martial arts and Tae Guk Known
Do. Wear loose clothing and bring a bottle of water. Scott Ridlon is instructor. FFI: 320-267-7717, 320-281-2042. MCIL hosts classes and activities The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living provides many life skills classes as well as fun outings and events for people with disabilities. MCIL is at 530 N. Robert Street, St Paul and most activities are there or start there. Classes and events are listed on the website, www.mcil-mn. org. Click on “Classes Groups and Sessions” for updated information or to print their calendar. Please give two weeks’ notice if the alternative format or other accommodations are needed. Events are free, accessible and mostly scent-free. The People of Color with disabilities group meets 5:30-8 p.m. the third Thu of each month. FFI: 651-603-2030 Mental health support offered NAMI Minnesota offers more than 500 free educational classes and presentations statewide each year, along with help in navigating the mental health system. NAMI also has more than 70 free support groups for people living with a mental illness and their families. NAMI Minnesota hosts a free Get to Know NAMI class 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Tue, July 16, at its office at 1919 University Ave., Suite 400, in St. Paul. Meet NAMI staff and volunteers and hear firsthand how NAMI’s work directly affects the lives of children and adults with mental illnesses and their families. Learn about education and support programs and how to advocate for better mental health policies. RSVP. FFI: Kay King, 651-645-2948 x113, kking@namimn.org In the Twin Cities NAMI has about two dozen family support groups, more than 20 support groups for people living with a mental illness, anxiety support groups, groups for veterans and other groups. Led by trained facilitators, groups provide help and support. Parent resource groups are facilitated by a parent who has a child with a mental illness and who has been trained to lead support groups. A group meets 6:30-8 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday at Eagle Brook Church, 2401 East Buffalo St., White Bear Lake. FFI: Jody Lyons 651-645-2948 x109. Family support groups help families who have a relative with a mental illness. A group meets at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Wed at Centennial United Methodist Church, 1524 Co. Rd. C-2 West, Roseville. FFI: Anne Mae. 651-484-0599. Open Door Anxiety and Panic support groups help people cope with anxiety disorders. One group meets 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. the second and fourth Thu in Room 104, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 700 Snelling Ave. S., St. Paul. Another group meets 6:30-8 p.m. the first and third Thu at Woodland Hills Church, 1740 Van Dyke St., St. Paul. A peer support group is offered for LGBTQ adults living with a mental illness. The group meets 1-2:30 p.m. Sat, Living Table United Church of Christ, 3805 E. 40th St, Mpls. FFI: David, 612-920-3925, 651-645-2948. Young Adult NAMI Connection is a free support group for persons ages 16-20. One group meets 7-8:30 the first and third Thu at Friends Meeting House, 1725 Grand Ave., St. Paul. A group also meets 7-8:30 p.m. on the first and third Thu at Dental Office of Dr. Crandall & Associates, 2300 East Highway 96, White Bear Lake. The group is facilitated by young adults who live with mental illnesses and are doing well in recovery. A full calendar of all events is offered online. FFI: 651-645-2948, www.namihelps.org Vision loss group offers activities Vision Loss Resources provides free and low-cost activities in the Twin Cities for people who are blind or visually impaired. Life skills classes for those with low vision; card games, craft classes, book clubs, walking groups, dinners out, special outings and technology classes are among the offerings. Participants need to RVSP to participate, at least three working days prior to an event. The calendar is also available on the Vision Loss Resources website and as a printable large-print PDF document for those who wish to print their own or additional copies. A new policies handbook will be introduced in February. It has been developed to help everyone understand VLR policies, practices and eligibility requirements. Copies will be available in both the St. Paul and Minneapolis locations. All participants attending Community Center
activities will need to sign the one-page summary and community center participation agreement form. FFI: RSVP hotline, 612-843-3439; activity line and audio calendar, 612-253-5155, www.visionlossresources.org St. Cloud Area Parkinson's Disease group St. Could Area Parkinson’s Disease Support Group typically meets 1-2 p.m. third Mon of each month at ILICIL Independent Lifestyles, 215 N. Benton Dr., Sauk Rapids. Next meetings are Mon, May 20 and June 17. Meetings are open to those diagnosed with Parkinson’s, their families, caregivers and the general public. The free group provides support, education, and awareness about the disease. FFI: 320-529-9000 Hope for Recovery workshop NAMI Minnesota offers Hope for Recovery workshops, six hours of resources and help for family and friends of a teen or adult living with a mental illness. Next workshop is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat, April 13 in St. Paul. The workshops are also helpful for people living with a mental illness who are doing well in their recovery. Obtain information about mental illnesses, treatments, crisis management, suicide prevention, the mental health system and local resources along with practical strategies for helping a loved one or friend. This includes learning the LEAP strategy for improving communication: Listen, Empathize, Agree-on what you can, and Partner. Preregistration required. Bring a bag lunch. FFI: www.namihelps.org Adult support groups offered AuSM offers free support groups for adults with autism spectrum disorder. Groups include those for adult family members, women with autism spectrum disorders and independent adults with autism. Check the website for upcoming groups. Groups meet at the AuSM offices at 2380 Wycliff St. FFI: 651-647-1083 ext. 10, www.ausm.org
VOLUNTEER
Book readers sought Volunteers are a valuable resource at Radio Talking Book, broadcasting local news and information programs to blind and print-impaired listeners from sites around the state and at the Communication Center in St. Paul. The goal is to provide accurate and timely information to our thousands of listeners throughout Minnesota and across the nation. FFI: Roberta Kitlinski, 651-539-1423 Be a tutor Minnesota Reading Corps and Minnesota Math Corps are seeking 1,700 tutors for the 2019-20 school year by asking residents to Help Minnesota Be More. Give Your Time As A Tutor. Both full- and part-time tutors are being recruited to begin a year of paid service this fall. By joining Reading Corps or Math Corps, individuals will be helping more than 35,000 students statewide. Reading Corps and Math Corps are statewide initiatives to help every Minnesota student become a successful reader by the end of third grade, and proficient in math by the end of eighth grade. Tutors are being sought for three different levels of commitment: 35, 25 or 18 hours a week. Tutors receive a stipend every two weeks and can earn up to an additional $4,200 for student loans or tuition, which can be gifted to a family member if the tutor is 55 or older. Many tutors also qualify for additional benefits like free health insurance and child care assistance. Sign up soon as tutors start work in August. FFI: www. minnesotareadingcorps.org, www.minnesotamathcorps.org Help with Tapemark tournament The Tapemark golf tournament has a change in date, moving from June to Sept. 20-22 at Southview Country Club, West St. Paul. The event, which raises money for people with disabilities, relies on many volunteers to make the tournament a success. Spots are available for volunteers with disabilities. Be a start assistant, help with registration or do other tasks. Volunteers get a food and beverage voucher and a T-shirt. There is a dress code for volunteers, who need to be ready to help, rain or shine. FFI: Michelle Theisen, The Arc Minnesota at 952-915-3670 or michelle@tapemarkgolf.org
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
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PEOPLE & PLACES Can Do Canines founder Peters receives Lasallian Service Award from St. Mary's During the annual Reunion Weekend, St. Mary’s University of Minnesota honors outstanding alumni who have made outstanding achievements in their professional careers, who best exemplify the Lasallian charism St. Mary’s was founded upon, and who have generously contributed time and talent to the goals and objectives of their alma mater. Can Do Canines founder and leader Alan M. Peters ’74 received the 2019 Lasallian Service Award for his work with Can Do Canines. He was honored during a reception and ceremony June 22 on the Winona campus. Peters founded Can Do Canines 30 years ago and is the current executive director. Under his leadership, the organization has grown from an interesting idea to an industry-leading organization with 35 staff and a 25,000 square foot training facility. Can Do Canines has placed more than 650 fully-trained assistance dogs into the community, all at no cost to their clients with disabilities. Can Do Canines has received awards from the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, the Minnesota State Council on Disability, the Minnesota Corrections Association, The Arc of Minnesota, and the Commission of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Minnesotans. Peters was personally given the Minneapolis Award for his contribution to the community. Three of the Lasallian core principles are: respect for all persons, concern for the poor and social justice; and inclusive community. In his work, Peters abides by these principles. Can Do Canines is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with specially trained dogs. The work of Peters’ organization brings freedom, independence, and peace of mind to people with disabilities—free of charge. Can Do Canines is located in New Hope. For more information, visit can-do-canines.org.
Spring sports champs crowned
The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) has crowned its 2019 spring sports champions, in track and field, adapted softball and bowling. At the state track field meet at Hamline University, in Class A girls’ competition, Maple River’s Lilly Stiernagle defended her 100-meter and 200-meter wheelchair dash titles and set new Class 1A state records in the process. Amy Sullivan of LeSueurHenderson finished second. The two also finished one-two in the wheelchair shotput. In Class A boys’ competition, Luke Johnston, Medford won the discus throw Lilly Stiernagle with a Class 1A record. Aidan Gravelle of Lake Crystal-Wellcome Memorial-Nicollet placed second, and Danny Lilya, Moose Lake/Willow River was third. Ben Bode, St Peter, Peyton Gunnarson, Lewiston-Altura and Riley Steinbach, St. Clair/ Immanuel Lutheran, rounded out the field. Gunnarson won the 100-meter wheelchair dash, with Gravelle in second place and James Hagen, River Valley, third. Gravelle won the 200-meter wheelchair dash, with Gunnarson in second and Hagen in third. Gravelle and Gunnarson also finished one-two in the 1600 meter wheelchair run. In the Class AA 800 meter wheelchair run, Macario Palomares, Buffalo, finished first and Blake Eaton, Duluth Denfeld placed second. Eaton and Palomares finished one-two in the 100-meter wheelchair dash. Ben Mathiowetz, New Ulm, returned to defend his wheelchair discus title. Two new state champions emerged at the end of the adapted softball state tournament held at Chanhassen High School. Dakota United captured the PI Division for the first time in four seasons and fourth time overall with an 8-7 victory over Rochester in the championship game. In the CI Division, Burnsville/Farmington/Lakeville captured a softball title for first time in the history of the co-op, with a stunning come-from-behind 15-13 victory. The Blazing Cats were down 11-0 before they scored 13 runs in three innings to force additional play. Athletes with physical disabilities play in the PI Division, and athletes with cognitive disabilities play in CI competition. In the PI division, Dakota United defeated Minneapolis South and Osseo en route to the title game. 2018 champion Robbinsdale/Hopkins/MoundWestonka finished in third place, besting Osseo 7-3. Anoka-Hennepin took home the consolation title with a 10-0 win over St. Paul Humboldt. The other team in the tournament was Burnsville/Farmington/Lakeville/ New Prague. The PI all-tournament team is Moustache Mouhoumed, Humboldt; Cole Andrzcyak, AnokaHennepin; Sam Roles and Vincent Lu, Robbinsdale/ Hopkins/Mound Westonka; Hayden Audette and Johnny Perez, Osseo; Cooper Chelstrom, Samuel Gerten and Blake Jackson, Dakota United and Blake Hillman, Matthew Horsman and Dayne Bailey, Rochester.
Al Peters
Gerten, a freshman, delivered a bases-loaded single with no outs in the bottom of the seventh inning in the Hawks' 8-7 victory over Rochester in the title game. CI champs Burnsville/Farmington/ Lakeville topped New Prague and Chaska/ Chanhassen/Prior Lake/Shakopee to get to the title game. Chaska/Chanhassen/Prior Lake/Shakopee took home third place with a 5-4 win over Osseo. Dakota United wore the consolation crown, with a 17-16 win over defending champions St. Cloud Area. White Bear Lake Area was the eighth team in the tournament. The CI all-tournament team is Jordan Williams, St. Cloud Area; Nolan Sherman, Dakota United; Jesse Cardoso-Ramirez and Rio McGrew, Osseo; Nathan Casteneda and Tyler Johnson, Chaska/Chanhassen/Prior Lake/Shakopee; Miller Hertaus, Abigail Schrick and Natalya Rawley, Burnsville/ Farmington/Lakeville, and Jack Swedahl, Katie Sexton and Tyler Tinucci, South Washington County. The state bowling tournament was held at Bowlero in Brooklyn Park, with more than 400 competitors. Team, individual and doubles champions were crowed in the PI, CI and ASD divisions. This marked the 20-year anniversary of adapted bowling. ZED, a co-op of Hayfield, Blooming Prairie and Kasson-Mantorville, won the team crown in the ASD Division, for athletes with autism. Mankato East won the CI Division title, with North St. Paul taking home the PI Division crown. ZED won the ASD team championship with a 10-pin victory over Mankato East. ZED compiled a score of 1,625 behind seventh grader Braden Klauer, eighth grader Alex Saunders and seniors David Lomker and Justice Barnes. Mankato East was
second, followed by North Branch. North St. Paul, which featured a lineup with a bowler in each of the top four grades, won the PI Division team title with a combined score of 1,594. That was 37 pins better than runner-up, Wayzata/Minnetonka. The Polars’ victorious lineup was compiled of freshman Kojo Dadie, sophomore Kathleen Hubert, junior Max LeMay and senior Debie Morales-Campos. Minneapolis South was third. In the CI Division, it was a three-way battle of Mankato East teams as all three finished in the top three. The group of freshmen Julio Esquival, Wren Eccles, Hunter Carlsgaard and sophomore Konnor Wojcik won with a combined score of 1,653 pins. Many new champions were crowned, with a youth movement in some classes. In girls’ individual competition, Mahtomedi seventh grader Kari Commander captured the PI gold medal, topping another seventh grader, Aaliyah Novack from Simley of Inver Grove Heights. Houston eighth-grader Mackenzie Zibrowski placed third. In the CI Division, Mankato East seventh grader Cordelia Emery topped Mahtomedi Molly Thompson. Cambridge-Isanti senior Desi Miller was third. In the ASD Division, Princeton freshman Victoria Greenway rolled to the gold medal, topping Alexandria Area seventh grader Lizzie Floden. Monticello senior Ciara Aydt was third. In the boys’ individual PI Division, Simley junior Thomas Juneau won the individual medal, besting St. Paul Highland Park sophomore Nicholas Silvester. was runner-up at 466. East Grand Forks sophomore Cole Pulkrabek placed third. The CI boys’ champion is Anoka-Hennepin eighth-grader Nicholas Bauch. Austin’s Damian Songkam, a freshman, placed second. Moorhead seventh-grader Kaiden Oye was third. In the ASD Division, East Grand Forks eighth-grader Evan Meulebroek and St. Paul Como Park freshman Walter White tied for first place. St. Paul Highland Park sophomore Bryan Flynn was third. The ASD doubles title was won by Como Park sophomore Ethan Johnson and senior Victoria Jefferson. Monticello seniors Lucas Rowen and Ciara Aydt placed second. Highland Park’s Flynn and senior Fwjchim Vang were third at 897. In Pin doubles, Juneau and Simley teammate Dallas Filek, a junior, rolled to the top spot. Simley senior Emily Rettinger and sophomore Brianna Richter were second. Simley completed the sweep of two three finishes when freshman Michelle Aguirre and Novak were third with a score of 919. In the CI Division, Minneapolis North seniors DaShantae Curry and Cashmo’Naey Coleman captured the championship. Moorhead eighth-grader Ted Pasche and Nicholas Knight, a sophomore, placed second. Anoka-Hennepin junior Ken Bureau and senior Brennan Phetdara were third.
UCare announces behavioral sciences leader
UCare, an independent, nonprofit health plan, has appointed Jennifer J. Garber as associate vice president of behavioral health services. Garber will lead this newly invigorated department Jennifer Garber in attainment of UCare’s behavioral health strategic goals for all Medicare, Medicaid and individual and family plan members. She will drive the organization’s vision to be a leader in ensuring behavioral health equity – especially for members of special needs plans. Garber brings more than 29 years of behavioral clinical PEOPLE & PLACES To page 14
DIAMOND HILL TOWNHOMES Diamond Hill Townhomes is a great property located near the Minneapolis International Airport. We have spacious two and three bedroom townhomes that are HUD subsidized and rent is 30% of the total household’s adjusted gross income. Diamond Hill Townhomes may be accepting applications for our large number of mobility impaired accessible units. Please contact us for more information.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Please call 612-726-9341.
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
Polar Plungers start time of chills, thrills
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RADIO TALKING BOOK
Summer Reading reminder Get ready for summer reading! Books and magazines on the reading list, or even instructions for new electronic gadgets can be read by Audio Services at State Services for the Blind. Some materials may already be recorded and can be tracked down. Call Audio Services at 651-539-1422 or 1-800-652-9000.
The Writer’s Voice* Monday – Friday 2 p.m. Pounding the Rock, nonfiction by Marc Skelton, 2019. Coach Marc Skelton tells of a successful high school basketball season, and a host of educational and social issues. Read by John Mandeville. 10 broadcasts; begins Mon, July 15.
Books Available Through library services Books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault. The catalog is online at www.mnbtbl.org, click on the link Search the Library Catalog. Persons living outside of Minnesota may obtain copies of books via an inter-library loan by contacting their home state’s Network Library for the National Library Service. Listen to the Minnesota Radio Talking Book, either live or archived programs, on the Internet at www.mnssb.org/rtb or on handheld devices via the SERO app (iOS or Android). Call the Talking Book Library for a password to the site. To find more information about Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network events go to the Facebook site, Minnesota Radio Talking Book. Call 1-800-722-0550, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon through Fri with questions. 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. Access Press is featured on It Makes a Difference, 9 p.m. Sun. The sampling published monthly in Access Press doesn’t represent the full array of programming. Many more programs and books are available. Donate to the State Services for the Blind at mn.gov/deed/ ssbdonate
The Real Wallis Simpson, nonfiction by Ann Pasternak, 2019. Though vilified as the woman who stole the king, Wallis Simpson helped Prince Edward understand the necessity of his duties. Read by Myrna Smith.
Chautauqua* Tuesday - Saturday 4 a.m. Kicks: The Great American Story of Sneakers, nonfiction by Nicholas Smith, 2018. The story of athletic shoes, from their birth to their current and enduring popularity. Read by Scott McKinney. 10 broadcasts; begins Wed, July 17. - L Make Your Bed, nonfiction by William McRaven, 2017. Fundamental life lessons, learned by retired Admiral McRaven in Navy SEAL training. Read by Scott Speich. Two broadcasts, begins Wed, July 31. Past is Prologue* Monday-Friday 9 a.m. Midnight in Chernobyl, nonfiction by Adam Higginbotham, 2019. In 1986 a massive accident destroyed a reactor at the Chernobyl Atomic Energy Station in the Ukraine, triggering pandemonium and cover-ups. Read by Robb Empson. 17 broadcasts; begins Wed, July 17. Bookworm* Monday – Friday 11 a.m. Call Your Daughter Home, fiction by Deb Spera, 2019. In South Carolina, during the depths of the Great Depression, three remarkable women struggle with family relationships. Read by Carol McPherson. 12 broadcasts; begins Thu, July 18.
PEOPLE & PLACES From page 13
experience including 17 years of management experience within health plan behavioral programs. Most recently she was director of clinical operations and community initiatives and government programs at Optum Health Behavioral Health Solutions with oversight of the Medica Behavioral Health Care Advocacy Center. Garber is a results-oriented leader with years of experience collaborating with behavioral providers and advocating for members. She also has significant experience working within federal and state regulatory environments. “Jennifer is an outstanding addition to our leadership team,” said UCare Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Julia Joseph-Di Caprio. “Her extensive experience in the field and genuine care for people who live with mental illness and/or substance use disorder are
Choice Reading* Monday – Friday 4 p.m. The Department of Sensitive Crimes, fiction by Alexander McCall Smith, 2019. Malmö, Sweden’s Sensitive Crimes Department investigates crimes too quirky for anyone else in law enforcement. Read by Tom Speich. Eight broadcasts; begins Tue, July 16. A People’s History of Heaven, fiction by Mathangi Subramanian, 2019. In a small neighborhood in Bangalore, India, five young girls and their mothers wage war when the city threatens to destroy their homes. Read by Brenda Powell. 10 broadcasts; begins Mon, July 29. PM Report* Monday – Friday 8 p.m. Our Republican Constitution, nonfiction by Randy E. Barnett, 2016. Since the beginning, America has faced a struggle over our identity. Read by Dan Olson. 10 broadcasts; begins Mon, July 22.
ruinous business decisions. Read by Holly Sylvester. 13 broadcasts; begins Wed, July 24. – L Off the Shelf* Monday – Friday 10 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, July 24. After Midnight* Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m. Northern Lights, fiction by Raymond Strom, 2019. A boy seeks his estranged mother in a rural Minnesota town. Not used to small-town life, he joins a crowd of jaded teenagers. Read by Eileen Barratt. Eight broadcasts; begins Fri, July 19. – L, V, 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 Wed, July 31. – L, S Weekend Program Books Your Personal World, 1 p.m. Sat, presents The Compassionate Achiever by Dr. Christopher L. Kukk, both read by Beverly Burchett. For the Younger Set, 11 a.m. Sun, presents She Loves You, Yeah, Yeah, Yeah by Ann Hood, read by Mitzi Lewellen; followed by White Rabbit by Caleb Roehrig, read by Peter Danbury. (V, S, L)
Night Journey* Monday – Friday 9 p.m. The Sentence is Death, fiction by Anthony Horowitz, 2019. A Scotland Yard detective investigates the murder of a prominent lawyer, by means of a bottle of vintage wine. Read by Neil Bright. 11 broadcasts; begins Mon, July 15. - V
Poetic Reflections, noon Sun, presents Devotions: The Selected Poems of Mary Oliver, read by Myrna Smith.
Before She Knew Him, fiction by Peter Swanson, 2019. After a friend is murdered, a woman notices possible clues in a new neighbor’s home. Read by Therese Murray. 10 broadcasts; begins Tue, July 30. - V
Abbreviations: V – Violence, L – Offensive Language, S – Sexual Situations, RE – Racial Epithets, G – Gory Depictions
Potpourri* Monday – Friday 11 p.m. Humans: A Brief History of How We F----d It All Up, nonfiction by Tom Phillips, 2019. History is filled with instances of how human screw-ups have made a lasting impact on world history. Read by Scott McKinney. Nine broadcasts; begins Tue, July 16. – L
The Great North, 4 p.m. Sun, presents Wild and Rare by Adam Regn Arvidson, read by Andrea Bell. All times listed are US Central Standard Time.
Simplied & Dignified Solutions
The Music Lesson, nonfiction by Victor E. Wooten, 2006. An aspiring young musician works with an eccentric teacher to make music his life. Read by Carol Lewis. Seven broadcasts; begins Mon, July 29. Good Night Owl* Monday – Friday midnight American Pop, fiction by Snowden Wright, 2019. Back in the early 1900s a Mississippi chemist invents a soft drink, Pan-Cola; but despite its national success his heirs make
an asset to UCare and our members. She understands community needs to address gaps in mental health care and knows how to enact changes organization-wide.” Garber joined UCare in June. She holds degrees from the University of Iowa and Grace Theological Seminary. She is licensed as an independent clinical social worker and lives in St. Louis Park.
Mona Siddiqui 763-442-1630 www.nehaadaptive.com nehaadaptive@gmail.com
Representing Silvert's Adaptive Clothing
Make the news! Receiving an award? Joining a board? Moving to new space? Winning a race? Filling a top post? Send us your “boast”! Marking a key date? Please don’t be late! Access Press welcomes submissions for the People and Places pages. Submissions are due by the 25th of each month.
Questions? Email or call: access@accesspress.org or 651-644-2133
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7 From page 11 performances. Stand-alone chairs provide for flexible seating, and open space is available for those who wish to sit on the floor or move around the room. Tickets $12. Phone: 612-371-5656, www. minnesotaorchestra.org Peter and the Starcatcher Commonweal Theatre Company presents a story about Peter Pan’s early days, at Commonweal Theatre, 208 Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro. AD offered 1:30 p.m. Sun, July 28, pre-show at 1:10 p.m. and tactile tour at noon with advance notice. Please make AD reservations at least one week in advance, noting if a tactile tour is desired. Two-week notice requested for a Braille program. Five-week notice requested for ASL interpreting. Assistive listening devices available at the box office. Special seating available for persons with mobility issues. Tickets reduced to $15 for AD/ASL patrons (regular $35). Other discounts available. FFI: 507-467-2525, www.commonwealtheatre.org Open Flow Forum The Artists with Disabilities Alliance meets the first Thu of the month, 7-9 p.m. at Walker Community Church, 3104 16th Ave. S., Mpls. Upcoming dates Aug. 1, Sept. 5 and Oct. 3. Join artists with disabilities and supporters to share visual art, writing, music, theater and artistic efforts or disability concerns. Informal, fragrance-free, with shared refreshments. Facilitators are Dan Reiva, Tara Innmon, and Kip Shane. Fully accessible, but anyone needing special accommodations should contact VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888, jon@vsamn.org 42nd Street Ordway Music Theater, 345 Washington, St. Paul, hosts a musical about an ingénue’s journey to Broadway. OC offered 7:30 p.m. Thu, Aug. 1. ASL and AD offered 2 p.m. Sat, Aug. 3. Braille, large-print programs and infrared listening systems available at patron services in Ordway’s first
REGIONAL NEWS From page 6
administrator, told the Star Tribune that her facility of 150 to 155 clients has “corrected the concerns … and the Health Department agrees with our corrective measures.” She added that the facility now has systems in place to aid residents in falls. Those actions include assessing each resident upon admission of the risk of falling and, as warranted, analyzing each incident of a fall, and training all staff in that area of care. The resident, who required assistance with his daily needs because of various health issues including a moderate cognitive impairment, was known to staff to be susceptible to falling. Staff knew he was unwilling to use his call light when having a difficulty. He fell several times, often as he moved from his bed to his wheelchair. One fall resulted in a broken hip. The Estates of St. Louis Park is operated by Mankatobased Monarch Healthcare Management Group. (Source: Star Tribune)
Lawyer sentenced to prison
Former Minneapolis attorney Paul Hansmeier, who was involved in lawsuits centered on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), has been sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment for a different scheme. Hansmeier was sentenced in June in connection with his multimillion effort to threaten people for downloading pornographic videos online. Hansmeier and co-defendant Paul Steele admitted to the scheme in August 2018. They created sham entities to share pornography online, then would track down and threaten people who downloaded the videos. They would file copyright lawsuits and subpoena Internet service providers for the identities of people who downloaded the films. They would then harass people with calls and letters, saying they could either pay a $3,000 settlement fee or face greater penalties. The U.A. Attorney’s Office said the fraud took place between 2011-2014. Hansmeier was also ordered to pay $1.4 million in restitution. Previously Hansmeier worked with a nonprofit group that threatened to sue businesses around the state if they didn’t provide proper access for people with disabilities. (Source: KSTP-TV)
Winter walkways are eyed
Summer officially began June 21, but Minneapolis leaders are concerned with improving the conditions of the city's nearly 2,000 miles of sidewalks for the coming winter. Most households inspected by the city during a pilot program last winter shoveled their sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowstorm, according a report presented to a City Council committee in June. But council members and some pedestrians say the city still has work to do for sidewalks to remain clear of snow and ice during the season. “There is a real human cost to this,” said Council
REMEMBERED
From page 5 At the time she was honored, Mundl said, “There are no disabilities, but rather varying abilities. I have always looked beyond a disability and focused on what a person can do. Everyone is unique and everyone is a gift.” In late 2018 Mundl ended a long career at what is now Allina’s Courage Kenny Institute. She most recently was assistive technology resource manager at Minnesota System to Achieve Results (STAR) and webpage
level lobby. If using ASL or OC, recommended seating locations (subject to availability) are: ORCH-RGT G 307-310, ORCH-RGT H 308-311, ORCHRGT J 309-312. Tickets $48-$111. FFI: 651-224-4222, www.ordway.org Tour for People with Memory Loss At 10 a.m. on the first Tue of every month the historic James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Ave., St. Paul, offers a sensory-based tour designed for people with memory loss and their caregivers. Each themed tour, usually an hour or less, highlights three rooms and is followed by an optional social time until 11:30 a.m. with pastries and coffee. Private group tours available for care facilities. Next tours Tue, Aug. 6 and Sept 3. Free but reservations required. FFI: 651-297-2555, www.mnhs.org Aladdin Jr. Northern Starz Children's Theatre students with special needs, their mentors and the Penguin Project present the story about Aladdin, his friends and a magical genie, at Anoka-Ramsey Community College, 11200 Mississippi Blvd. N., Coon Rapids. Performances 7 p.m. Wed thru Sat, July 31 - Aug. 3 and 2 p.m. Sun, Aug. 4. Tickets $12. Discounts available. Northern Starz Children’s Theatre is the first Minnesota national replication site for the Penguin Project, which empowers children with special needs through theater. FFI 612-3266158, www.northernstarz.org Stinkers Jungle Theater presents a play about parenting and life balance, at 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. AD offered 7:30 Thu, Aug. 8. Tickets reduced to $24.50 including fees (regular $37 plus fees). Contact the theater to request an ASL-interpreted show. FFI: 612-822-7063, www.jungletheater.com Fiddler on the Roof A touring company brings the classic story of family to life, at Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. OC offered 7:30 p.m. Thu, Aug. 1. ASL offered 1 p.m. Sun, Aug. 4. AD offered 6:30 p.m. Sun, Aug. 4. Tickets $39-145. Limited seats are available at the Member Andrew Johnson. “It has a huge impact on quality of life for a city that essentially half the year has snow or cold weather.” Last winter, in order to rely less on vigilant neighbors, the city sent inspectors to look for households that failed to shovel their sidewalks after snow fell, as required by city ordinance. Inspectors visited about 27 percent of the city across seven snowfalls, according to the report. On average, they found that 96 percent of properties had shoveled their sidewalks in time, with relatively little disparity across the city. City contractors cleared the sidewalks of 558 households that received a notice of violation from inspectors, according to the report. The city has assessed property owners $169,525 for removing snow this year, a figure that will likely drop as people continue to repay the city. (Source: Star Tribune)
Staff raises safety concerns
Nurses, social workers and other staff at Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center say they no longer feel safe there. To drive home the point members of several unions recently conducted informational picketing. They were joined by several state lawmakers and met with DHS Commissioner Tony Lourey. “That’s part of informational picketing, to let the community know that the nurses and the staff inside can’t do their job with the way things are,” Carrie Mortrud of the Minnesota Nurses Association told KARE. The nurses walked in their traditional red MNA tee shirts alongside members of the MAPE government employees union in blue tees and AFSCME government workers union in their green shirts. At times during the six hours of picketing members of other unions joined them in support. “The concern is mostly for safety not only of our staff, but the safety of our patients and the safety of visitors that come into our hospital,” said Jennell Pettit, a MAPE member who works at the treatment center. Staff said they are seeing more dangerous patient behavior. Ongoing security concerns came to a head in May when a female nurse was attacked and knocked unconscious by a patient. Investigators said the patient attacked the nurse when she denied his request for Tylenol, suggesting he try a cold pack first. The nurse was hospitalized for several days and is still recovering, according to friends. (Source: KARE-11)
lowest price level to patrons using ASL interpreting or captioning on a first-come, first-served basis. Prices apply for up to two tickets for each patron requiring ASL interpretation or captioning. Additional seats may be sold separately and at regular price. AD receivers may be used in any price level. FFI: 612-339-7007, www. hennepintheatretrust.org VSA MINNESOTA VSA Minnesota is a statewide nonprofit organization that works to create a community where people with disabilities can learn through, participate in and access the arts, at http://vsamn.org. The website has a comprehensive calendar at the upper right-hand corner of its homepage. For information on galleries and theater performances around the state join the Access to Performing Arts email list at access@ vsamn.org or call VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or statewide 800-801-3883 (voice/TTY). To hear a weekly listing of accessible performances, call 612- 332-3888 or 800-801-3883. Access Press only publishes performance dates when accommodations are offered. Contact the venue to find out the entire run of a particular production, run times and if discounts for seniors, students, other individuals or groups are provided. VSA Minnesota advises everyone to call or email ahead, to make such that an accommodation is offered, as schedules can change. VSA Minnesota can also refer venues and theater companies to qualified describers, interpreters and captioners. Please note that in September 2019 VSA Minnesota will cease operations. The arts calendar will be handled by the Minnesota Access Alliance. Anyone with suggestions or a willingness to assist in this transition, can contact VSA Minnesota at 612-332-3888 or access@vsamn.org or info@vsamn.org. .
The St. Paul-based company provides housing for people in recovery for substance abuse and people with disabilities. In the lawsuits, the company is citing discrimination against the current residents under the federal Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Fabian Hoffner, general counsel for the Minnesota Association of Sober Homes, said these living situations give residents the opportunity to “learn how to live in a community again.” He said the homes are unique because tenants have to be sober for at least a month, attend at least three recovery meetings like Alcoholics Anonymous each week and follow rules including not using drugs or alcohol while staying there. The house does not offer treatment or counseling services. “People who live in Anoka and Cambridge want to live in their own communities while they get better so that’s why new sober houses are moving into these places,” Hoffner said. It’s not the first time One Love Housing has gone to court over its sober-living homes. It is currently in court with the city of Cambridge. (Source: Star Tribune)
FOR RENT Calvary Center Apts: 7650 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley, MN. A Section 8 building now accepting applications for our waiting list. Call 9 am to 4 pm, Mon – Fri 763-546-4988 for an application. Equal Opportunity Housing. Find your new home with At Home Apartments. Call 651-224-1234 or visit AtHomeApartments.com for an apartment or town home. Equal Opportunity Housing. RENTAL PROPERTIES Metes & Bounds Management Company manages the following Section 8 properties in Minnesota. Greenwood - Wadena - (218) 631-2575 Rustic Creek - Two Harbors - (218) 595-1018 Todd 27 – Long Prairie - (320) 732-6154 Town Square – East Grand Forks - (218) 773-3631 Income and rent restrictions apply Metes & Bounds is an equal housing opportunity housing company.
Housing provider files suit
A company that provides sober-living homes is suing the cities of Anoka and Cambridge for limiting the number of people in recovery who can stay in their properties. One Love Housing LLC is fighting both cities in court after city officials denied its applications that would increase the number of potential clients seeking help with alcoholism and addiction. Both cities have pointed to local ordinances limiting the number of unrelated people allowed to live in homes together.
manager for Proctor Storage. She also hosted online assistive technology workshops and did work for Great Lakes ADA Center. Mundl loved traveling, being outdoors, playing games, and going to plays and concerts with family and friends. She is survived by her parents, her sister and brotherin-law, two nieces and a nephew. Services have been held. Memorials are preferred to United Church of Christ in New Brighton and to various organizations serving those with disabilities. ■
CLASSIFIEDS
ENJOY!
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ACCESSIBLITY PROGRAM DIRECTOR The Metropolitan Regional Arts Council (MRAC) in St. Paul, Minnesota is hiring an Accessibility Program Director. As part of MRAC’s commitment to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) the Accessibility Program Director will lead MRAC’s work to be accessible and meet disability-related needs of our constituents. They will work on building the internal capacity of the MRAC staff and board around disability justice and accommodations. Additionally, they will develop, implement and evaluate MRAC’s Accessibility grant program. Visit mrac.org for the job d escription and details on applying. Closing Date: July 22, 2019 or until filled.
Classified rates: $15 (first 18 words) and 65¢ per word thereafter. Classified ads prepaid. Mail to: Access Press, Capitol Ridge Inn Offices; 161 St. Anthony Ave; #910; St. Paul, MN 55103; Phone: 651-644-2133; Fax 651-644-2136; Email: access@accesspress.org
July 10, 2019 Volume 30, Number 7
...because everyone has limitless potential.
Resources for Individuals, Families and Employers.
800.829.7110 I MyMRCI.org
Coverage for all. UCare has been de-complicating health plans for people of all abilities for more than 30 years. Get started at ucare.org or call 800-707-1711 | TTY: 800-688-2534
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