January 2017 Edition - Access Press

AWARDS Page 11

ACCESSPRESS.ORG

Volume 28, Number 1

January 10, 2017

Minnesota Legislature starts complex, contentious session

Winter has Minnesota in its grasp, so be prepared for ice, snow and cold. People with disabilities should always take extra precautions to stay safe.

Being prepared before heading out into potential bad weather strikes is essential. Almost all television stations and the National Weather Service also offer weather updates via smart technology.

Find your community’s resources for issues such as on-street parking bans and other snow emergency information. Many cities now have text, email, Twitter and Facebook notices of snow emergencies.

Be prepared at home. Many Minnesotans, especially those in rural areas, face the risk of losing power during a storm. Make a winter checklist and be ready for a week without access to food, water and electricity. Have sources for warmth, drinking water, canned food and a manual can opener. Stock up on breads, crackers, dried fruits and other foods that can be eaten without cooking.

Pets and service animals’ needs also should be considered, by stockpiling needed pet food and water. Remember, many of your pets cannot cope without a heat source, as well.

Have a stock of prescription and non-prescription drugs and a first aid kit. Make sure flashlights and battery-powered lanterns work, and extra batteries are on hand. To reduce the risk of accidental fires, avoid using candles. Home carbon monoxide and smoke alarms must be in good working order.

Close off rooms that aren’t in use to conserve heat. Close drapes or cover windows with blankets at night. Stuff towels or rugs beneath cracks under doors. Be careful with space heaters, wood stoves and fireplaces as those can cause burns, start fires or in some cases add to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Keep outdoor trips planned and as brief as possible. Cold weather and prolonged exposure to cold can trigger health problems and worsen pre-existing conditions.

A hat, scarf or mask to cover the face, sleeves that are snug at the WINTER PREP page 3

by Jane McClure The 2017 Minnesota Legislature gaveled into session January 3, launching one of the most potentially complex and contentious sessions in recent years. State lawmakers and Gov. Mark Dayton must reach agreement on a two-year budget for the state, or face a crippling government shutdown like the one in 2011.

All side must also reach agreement on what to do with what has grown into a $1.4 billion budget surplus. Minnesotans with disabilities and their allies are urging state lawmakers to consider spending on programs including Medical Assistance spend-down reform and wage increases to address the growing caregiver shortage. Calls are also being made for physical improvements at state hospitals and schools for children and youth with disabilities, as no bonding bill was passed in 2016.

With Republican control of the House and Senate, and DFLer Dayton, expect a number of disagreements. Dayton began releasing his budgets January 4, with the first promising to reduce health insurance premiums by 25 percent for 125,000 Minnesotans.

As Access Press went to press, no committee and bill deadlines had been announced. Many committees

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

“I think of my body as a side effect of my mind."

— Carrie Fisher

NEWS DIGEST Spiritual Gait is poetry in motion Page 11

Mike Kelly was one of the many people campaigning on behalf of Medical Assistance reform in 2016.

have had changes in leadership, so how that plays out remains to be seen.

Disability advocacy groups and service organizations have already announced events. Check individual websites often as schedules can be subject to change.

The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MNCCD)

Updated Parallels in Time outlines history of disability Page 2 Readers write about staying healthy, dealing with caregiver crisis Page 4 Directory of Organizations: Find useful services and needed supports Pages 7-10 Longtime self-advocate is a newlywed Page 11

2017 SESSION page 3

Goodbye to 2016

One year of victories, losses for our community

by Access Press staff Farewell to 2016, a year with many changes for Minnesota’s disability community. Here is our look back: JANUARY • A Twin Cities woman with a visual disability received an $185,000 payment from Medical Transportation Management, to resolve a claim of discrimination. The Minnesota Department of Human Rights made a finding of probable cause that discrimination occurred related to the failure to hire a job candidate with a disability.

• The Minnesota Department of Human Services announced a reorganization into three divisions, under newly appointed commission Emily Johnson Piper. The reorganization was touted as a way to improve service delivery.

• The legislative session hadn’t started yet but debate over “death with dignity” legislation was already underway in anticipation of one bill.

FEBRUARY • People with disabilities will

FILE PHOTO

by Access Press staff

PAID

TWIN CITIES, MN PERMIT NO. 4766

FILE PHOTO

Winter requires preparation

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

A legislative rally drew a large crowd.

have an easier time crossing St. Paul streets, as a result of a settlement announced by Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid’s Minnesota Disability Law Center. The city agreed to upgrade curb-cuts for future projects and replace some installed in 2014.

• Pioneering self-advocate Gloria Steinbring drew on her life experiences to become a tenacious cham-

pion for the rights of people with disabilities and was remembered after her death for her fierce populist spirit, kind heart and strong loyalty to others. She and her late husband Dean were remembered for their successful fight to be wed.

• RISE celebrated 45 years of service.

YEAR IN REVIEW page 14

Pg 2 January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1

EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin We have celebrated the beginning of the New Year. I am glad we have 2016 behind us, but I'm also apprehensive of the upcoming political changes. The year was not a choice one for me personally; I lost several very close childhood friends, and most importantly, my father, whom I have tried and will continue trying to emulate. I also deeply miss him. These losses made the political side of 2016 less important, but also maybe even stranger. I heard remarks from both campaigns that floored me, including many statements that should've ended either candidate’s drive for election. I believe this campaign cultivated and expanded a division in our country, and divided our nation like no previous campaign in my lifetime. It has underscored our many separations—in religion, race, sexual orientation and wealth.

In Minnesota, the legislative session opened with Republicans taking control of the House and Senate.

We will know in approximately a year if a Republican will be in the

governor's office as well. We’ll start the 2017 legislative session with a billion-plus dollar budget surplus, and many people are hoping to use some of that money to improve the state’s roads and educational systems. Others are concerned about improving the lives of all Minnesotans and especially elders and those with disabilities. As many of you know, Minnesota's low unemployment rate of 3.8 percent and the very low unemployment rate in our surrounding states (Iowa is also at 3.8 percent and North and South Dakota are both below 2.9 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics) has created a critical shortage of home healthcare providers - particularly PCAs, but RNs and LPNs as well. It's frightening to think that there is a real possibility that many seniors and people with disabilities will not have the option to live independently in the community because of this massive shortage of caregivers and the low reimbursement rates for a very stressful, responsible and physically

challenging job.

It's saddening how we as a country have let down people with disabilities, more than 25 years after adoption of the ADA. In the magazine Governing, a 2014 article, “How States Are Failing Students with Disabilities,” charged that many states are not in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, despite the fact that it’s an $11.5 billion program. Young people with disabilities can, with proper education, work anywhere making a good, livable income and can become productive, prosperous taxpayers. But without a quality education, young people aren’t able to get skilled jobs. There is a big push in our own state to employ more people with disabilities. Gov. Mark Dayton signed an executive order in August requiring state agencies to increase employment of people with disabilities in government jobs by 7 percent. If we’re not doing a good job educating our students, how can we hire them in state government jobs, or for that matter any public or private sector skilled jobs? The unemployment rate in the disability community is astronomical at 13.3 percent, and we all profess to wonder why. I think much of the unemployment problem is due to the lack of quality educational opportunities.

And I also think that the shortage of dedicated, reliable, caring, quality caregivers affects whether disabled youth can get the supports they need for school, job interviews, and

ultimately jobs. When they get a job will they have caregivers that can get them out of bed every morning and get them to work. The success of people with disabilities always goes back to the quality of the caregivers that assist them in getting out of the house day to day, and accompany them to school, work, shopping, community engagement and inclusion. We have to provide a true living wage for caregivers. PCAs are the most important resource for people with disabilities. Our communities, our state and nation, have made considerable investments in making our physical infrastructure more accessible. The state needs to continue to invest in the futures of children and young adults with disabilities in order to get back its investment in the ramps, sidewalks, transportation, and buildings.

I like the changes our new desktop publisher, In-Fin Tuan, has added. Maybe we should have a contest for who can recognize the most changes in Access Press. Thank you, In Fin, for your additions. We really appreciate your expertise and your extreme patience during this first issue with us.

I wish every one of you a great 2017, and I look forward to talking to you next month or seeing you at the capitol. We have to get the young people (and their PCAs!) to the capitol demanding a good education, good jobs, and quality work life for PCAs to allow all of us to have a first-class future. ■

HISTORY NOTE

Parallels in Time offers fascinating history of disability In commemoration of the 45th Anniversary of the Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities in 2016, the council has released a revised Parallels in Time.

It combines the original Parallels in Time, documenting the history of disabilities from 1500 B.C to 1950 published on the 25th anniversary of the Council, and Parallels in Time 2, continuing the history of disabilities from 1950 to the present issued on the 35th anniversary.

The history is fascinating to read and is broken down into distinct eras. According to Parallels in Time, the year 1552 B.C. marks the first recorded reference to mental retardation, described in an obscure document called the Therapeutic Papyrus of Thebes. Unlike today, the ancient era had no one documenting the lives of persons

with disabilities.

The Greeks and Romans, in particular, held a very narrow sense of self-image, believing they exemplified the ideal human type. With their contributions to art, philosophy, literature, and science, they viewed themselves as superior to all other races. Physical difference, in the form of a different ethnicity or disability, was seen as a mark of inferiority.

While the start of Christianity ushered in a time of more compassion, people with disabilities were sometimes viewed as objects of derision in the era Before Christ and during the Middle Ages. Many readers may have heard the phrase “the ship of fools.” Some persons with disabilities, particularly those considered unproductive dependents, were "shipped off" to other

Volume 28, Number 1 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.................................... Brigid Alseth, Steve Anderson, John Clark, Kristin Jorenby, Carrie Salberg, .....................................................................................................................Cheryl Vander Linden, Dick VanWagner, 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.

lands. Communities paid sailors to take such individuals away so they would no longer pose a burden. This practice led to the "Ships of Fools," the boats that would sail from port to port, charging admission to view their human cargo. Eventually, the ships would abandon their "passengers" at another port, forcing them to fend for themselves.

But the Middle Ages also marked the start of more benevolent measures. There is a shrine in Belgium dating from 1215 and dedicated to St. Dymphna, patron of the mentally afflicted. This is considered the beginning of family care and foster care. People with disabilities were brought here because of the belief that madness could be cured at the shrine. However, the motivation was mainly religious, i.e. "if we

take care of these people and treat them as family members, we will be rewarded in the hereafter."

Historical tidbits about the treatment of people with disabilities around the world are featured in Parallels in History, showing gradual changes in attitudes and treatment. It covers events from the modern era, including the rise of institutions, and the self-advocacy and independent living movements.

All videos have been updated to current technology standards. Parallels in Time has also been converted to a responsive design format. http:// mn.gov/mnddc/parallels/. ■ 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.

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January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 3

launched its Tuesdays at the Capitol series with a training session on opening day. The Tuesday sessions are held in the Transportation Building cafeteria. The second session planned January 10 was a press conference.

Different groups host and lead the gatherings on Tuesdays, urging their constituents or clients to attend. The events are open to all. It’s a good time to get involved with an organization and to learn how to contact legislators and raise issues. Check mnccd.org and its the calendar for times and other details.

Autism Recovery Foundation and the autism committee are the hosts January 17, with Lifeworks on tap January 24 and Arc Minnesota January 31. Advocating Change Together is February 7. Courage Kenny is February 21.

Tuesday, February 28 is Disability Matters Day at the Capitol, with a rally at 11:30 a.m. in the capitol rotunda. Mary T. Inc. is the lead group that day.

March starts with Epilepsy Foundation March 7, followed by the big ARRM/MOHR Rally March 14.

The armory has been too large to be held in the capitol rotunda, so it is typically at the National Guard Armory. Goodwill/Easter Seals will be on hand March 28.

April starts with Metropolitan Center for Independent Living April 4, followed by a possible spring break April 11 and Lutheran Social Services April 18. Living Well Disability Services is set for April 25.

WINTER PREP from page 1 wrist, layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing and a water-resistant outer coat to stay dry and boots are best.

Starting to shiver is a sign that it’s time to go inside and warm up.

Anyone with heart disease or high blood pressure should be especially careful of exertion in cold weather.

Always follow doctor’s instructions on working in the cold.

Walking or wheeling on ice and snow can be extremely dangerous.

Icy or snowy sidewalks are a huge barrier for everyone. A fall can cause serious and even fatal injuries. Stock up on salt, sand, clay cat litter or deicers for increased stability on sidewalks. Some cities use the See Click Fix program to report unshoveled

FILE PHOTOS

2017 SESSION from page 1

Kelly Kausel lobbied on behalf of her brother, on the Medical Assistance reform issue last year.

Tuesdays at the Capitol typically draw a good crowd.

Hammer is set for May 2, with Opportunity Partners May 9.

As of Access Press deadline, February 14 and March 21 and were still open. The consortium also hosts a Friday membership meeting most weeks during session, noon1 p.m. in Room 500 South in the State Office Building.

Other organizations are also offering assistance. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota hosts How to be an Effective Mental Health Advocate, 10 a.m. – noon Saturday, January 14 at NAMI Minnesota, 800 Transfer Road, Suite 31, St. Paul. The free training will provide information on how to work with state lawmakers. Participants need to preregis-

ter, by calling 651-6452948, or visiting namihelps.org.

Many disability advocacy groups and service organizations have their campaigns well underway. The Best Life Alliance, which is working to increase caregiver wages, recently put out a call for caregiver or direct supporter provider stories by legislative district. The alliance hoped to have stories from every Minnesota legislative district by mid-December. The stories and photos are to be compiled in a document that can be downloaded from the alliance’s web page and also shared on social media, in letters to legislators and in other ways.

See the organization’s website and read more about the campaign at

http://tinyurl.com/zuqexjs Want to stay in touch with legislative issues but cannot always get to the capitol? Many groups post regular updates on websites, or send out e-newsletters. The Arc Minnesota Public Policy Network is urging everyone to join, to get regular updates on statewide public policy activities. Information provided can be helpful when planning calls and emails to lawmakers, as well in one-on-one visits.

To join the network, go to www. arcmn.org/stayinformed, or contact Mike Gude by phone at 651-6048066 or e-mail at mikeg@arcmn. org. ■

walks. Other cities have grievance phone lines. Most cities have a set time, such as 12 to 24 hours after a snowfall, for a walk to be cleared.

All motor vehicles in Minnesota should be prepared with emergency supplies. Have a shovel, windshield scraper, cell phone and portable charger, battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries, water, snack foods, tow rope, jumper cables, emergency flares, help signs, road salt, sand, hats, coats, mittens, blankets, and a first aid kit. Have a metal can or tin, and put waterproof matches and a candle inside to melt snow for drinking water. Never eat snow as a water source as it will lowers body temperature.

Be cautious about travel and monitor weather conditions before

leaving. If you have one always take your cell phone along. It is always a good idea to let a family member or friend know about a trip, and the expected arrival time. Never count on your vehicle to provide adequate warmth if you get stranded. Pullover to the side of the road and stay in the vehicle and wait for help. Use flashers and raise the hood if it isn’t too windy, raining or snowing.

Only run your automobile and heater for about 10 minutes per hour. Open a window slightly for clean air and make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow. This will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Persons who get stranded in a vehicle need to stay awake.

Keep arms and legs moving as much as possible to promote circulation

and to stay warm.

Limited home snow shoveling help is available for people with disabilities and senior citizens. Call the Senior Linkage Line 1-800333-2433 or the Disability Linkage Line at 1-866-333-2466. Churches, neighborhood groups and Living at Home/Block Nurse programs are potential resources.

(Information for this article came from the State of Minnesota, Senior Linkage Line, Disability Linkage Line, Centers for Disease Control and Minnesota Info websites. Visit www.minnesotahelp.info to find both linkage line websites and other useful information. Another good website is www.disability.state. mn.us/emergency-preparedness) ■

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January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 4

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Gains in services must be protected

by Rick Cardenas When I was injured more than 55 years ago, I knew of no state services for people with disabilities.

I stayed at home with mother, dad and brother. Dad, mom and brother acted as personal care attendants (PCA) for me in the early years.

Then my brother was drafted into Army and was killed in Vietnam in 1967. He had been a big part of my support system.

That's when we discovered Ramsey County services and home nurses and what they could do to help me. I learned what they could provide, mainly visiting home nursing care, but no PCA services.

In the 1970s the county did assessments of needs and then would give you a grant. A CASH grant!

That was to pay for PCA services.

We had a system that respected and trusted people to use the grant to buy their needed services. So I did.

The late 1970s brought a new concept. Services provided by private companies was a way to get more services at the same cost.

How? Prior to the privatizing and the advent of small companies, PCAs were employees of the county, were unionized and received paid vacations and had a retirement plan. PCAs received a living wage.

That twist is when PCA wages began taking a dive. We continue that dive today. So, because the law says people with disabilities must receive services from the state and county government, we have become an expensive group.

In Minnesota we have a forward-looking Department of Human Services so we have a number of waivers. Our legislature has been willing to pass programs that give people with disabilities a chance to live a rewarding life with the opportunity for greater inclusion.

When we compare Minnesota to other states, many that will not even provide wheelchairs, we need to continue this practice.

Some of the outstanding benefits we have here in Minnesota are den-

tal care. In some states they pull your teeth out and give you false teeth, because of the lower costs with false teeth. (Remember when we rallied for full coverage?)

I have this wheelchair. I'm getting a new one. It’s on order right now. A Texas mother of two children with disabilities cared for her children for more than 20 years before she became too ill to do so.

Her children needed wheelchairs but because her family wasn’t considered to be needy enough for assistance, her children had to scoot around the floor. The family is now in Minnesota and the children are getting wheelchairs.

The Minnesota disability community organized and fought to persuade our policy makers to provide us with the services we needed. Now we need to fight policy makers who only want to maintain underfunded, almost obsolete services, that don't serve well anymore.

So, let’s fight. ■ Rick Cardenas is the retired co-director of Advocating Change Together.

Staying healthy in these stressful times

by L.A. Reed Well, it’s been a while since I’ve written anything. But the goal of this article is to get us all to play!

And be happy. And be healthy.

For the sake of sounding very dramatic, it’s imperative that we, in particular, take care of our health and our lives, facing some of the stresses going on in our society now.

We can do this.

We are an organized community.

We believe in ourselves.

Here are a few things we, as folks with disabilities, that we can do to make sure our bodies stay as HEALTHY and as WELL as we can be.

First, drink lots of water. Yes, it means we will pee more. But for the sake of our kidneys and bladders, which are even more fragile if we have spinal damage of any kind, be a camel. And make sure you know where the bathrooms are!

Second, sleep well. Eight to 10 hours a night.

Three, Eat healthy food.

That means several things. If you know you have a problem with sweets, cut back. Sugar can interfere with the function of your kidneys, liver, and other organs, and make you sick. Knock it out if at all possible.

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Wheat (gluten), milk products, and for some of us, nightshades (tomatoes, bell peppers, white potatoes, which can increase joint and muscle inflammation) are a no-no. Replace them with yummy yams and sweet potatoes, which have loads of nutrients. And yellow or red beets, which also keep you warmer in winter. And replace wheat with rice or quinoa.

Cry. Yes, you heard me right. Cry. Releasing emotions not only helps us cope more easily with life, but it also makes your kidneys, bladder and other internal organs less stressed. And our muscular system works more efficiently.

Let’s release the stress to those internal organs!

Our brain also benefit from the release of emotions and less intake of sugar and starches.

“What CAN I eat that’s healthy?” you may ask.

Well, right now I have some whole garlic cloves baking in my electric counter-top oven. So are some carrots slices.

I eat lots and lots of cooked greens (minus bacon or fat).

My plate of food has lots of colors. Yellows (yellow squash), green (greens and zucchini), orange (yams - you can bake them whole, or dice and cook); red (beets,

which take longer to cook) and orange or white fish (salmon; cod).

It’s loads of fun to make colorful plate of food.

And feed our bodies as well.

One more thing, for those of you who are adventurous: your local coop or health food store (Present Moment or Tao Foods in Minneapolis; Mastel’s in St. Paul) will be carrying herbal remedies and flower remedies. The first can help with health issues, such as echinacea for colds, flu or other infections, golden seal similarly; chamomile to help you sleep; and flower remedies for dealing with stress and emotions.

Rescue Remedy (Bach flower) is one of the best-known flower remedies to take if you feel like you are in an emotional crisis (which just a few of us have been lately). I keep a bottle in my medicine cabinet.

One last thing. Play! Lots! Go out with friends, even if it’s challenging physically. Ring in the New Year with a song, music, fun stuff; games all sorts. Let your life be cheerful, and let yourself and your friends some together and matter.

That is the best counter to any messages in the world that might make us believe otherwise. Go play! ■ L.A. Reed is a writer from St. Paul.

YOUR LETTERS

WELCOME

Access Press welcomes letters to the editor and commentary pieces from readers, on topics of interest to Minnesota’s disability community.

Letters should be no more than 500 words, with 750 words per commentary.

Ask the editors if more space is needed.

Letters and guest commentaries must be signed by the authors or authors.

With letters, a writer’s hometown is published but not a street address.

Please send contact information in case the editors have questions about a letter or commentary. Contact information isn’t published unless the writer specifically requests that the newspaper do so. Pictures of the author can be published with a guest commentary but aren’t required.

Access Press asks that letters and guest commentaries be specifically written for the newspaper. Letters must have a focus on disability issues and ideally, a focus on those issues as they affect Minnesotans. Form letters will not be published.

Because Access Press is a nonprofit publication and must follow regulations on political partisanship, political endorsement letters are not published. That is true for candidates’ endorsements as well as for ballot questions. Before making a submission writers are always encouraged to contact the newspaper to discuss ideas or to ask questions about From Our Community submissions, at 651-6442133 or access@accesspress.org.

Let the newspaper staff know if accommodations are needed to submit a letter or commentary.

Letters and commentaries reflect the view of the authors and not the views of the staff and board of directors of Access Press.

Deadline for the print edition of the newspaper is the 25th of each month, with publication the following month.

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January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 5

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Direct support providers work with honor, need a raise

by Norm Munk Well, here we are again as a state with another surprising budget surplus forecast that exceeds one billion dollars for 2017!

The question is, will the workforce crisis be addressed or ignored again?

For the two years previous in 2015 and 2016, the state of Minnesota had a budget surplus that exceeded one billion dollars. The governor and the legislative leadership did not pass on any money, any cost of living adjustments to the lowest paid workers (our direct service professionals or DSPs) who work honorably, tirelessly, selflessly, and with dedication for people with disabilities each and every day.

Knowing full well that there are currently 9,000 unfilled positions and record turnover rates of people doing direct care work with our elderly, people recovering from devastating medical setbacks, and people with disabilities, some of our elected officials once again ignored

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In Memoriam Woehrlin remembered for efforts at capitol The Arc Minnesota has lost one of its heroes. Mary “Molly” Woehrlin died December 23. She was 84 and lived in Northfield.

Woehrlin grew up on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, and attended Northrop School in Minneapolis and Smith College. She married William Woehrlin in 1953.

She came from a loving and supportive family where the children received a privileged start in life and were encouraged to make their own choices to define themselves and develop value systems upon which to build their lives. She had a deep empathy for those who felt excluded from society.

Woehrlin spent her adult live as an activist, with her focus including mental illness and developmental disabilities. She, Jane Donnelly Birks and the late Sally Swallen Helmerich received the heroes honor in 2012, for their many years of advocacy at the state capitol. They worked to close state institutions, sometime taking the wives of state legislators to see the facilities’ conditions firsthand. They worked on community inclusion and the quest for funding for services. The three were active when there were few women lobbyists.

Woehrlin also served on the Rice County Board of Commissioners.

She is survived by her husband Bill, two daughters and two sons, and many other relatives and friends. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, January 21 at the Northfield UCC. Memorial donations are suggested to TORCH, Community Action Center, WINGS or the church. ■

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and again relegated our invaluable direct care workers to the lowest priority level.

Confusing yes, disrespectful yes, and short-sighted yes.

"Life's most urgent question is: what are you doing for others?" said Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. DSPs dedicate their lives to doing for others every day. They promote choice and integration. They are the reason someone is cleaned, fed and dressed for the day. They are the reason individuals are able to attend their doctor appointments. They are the reason individuals are able to work, pay taxes, contribute to our economy, and get out into our

amazing community. They are the reason people are not stuck in their homes, not feeling all alone, and devalued. They bring joy, respect, dignity and happiness to those who may need help through no fault of their own.

We know as a society that anything can happen to anyone, at any time and that the true greatness of any society is how we support and take care of each during periods of need. Additionally, we dedicate ourselves to making sure that our loved ones are given the opportunity to reach their highest potential no matter what the setback or disability.

It is the DSP, this low paid worker, this invaluable individual, that dedicates him or herself every day to improving all of our lives.

Governor and legislative leaders, please address the workforce crisis and the direct service crisis as your top priority in 2017. Listen to the many elected officials who worked tirelessly and champion our cause.

Do the right thing! Show the world how Minnesota values our workers who are the backbone and foundation for caring for all of us. ■ Norm Munk is the chief executive officer of Partnership Resources, Inc., St. Louis Park.

January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 6

REGIONAL NEWS University program focuses on mental health

Stolen van tires are replaced

A few dozen University of Minnesota faculty members in late 2016 started receiving training through a pilot program that organizers hope can help promote good mental health and support students in need of help.

The Minnesota Daily reported that the new "mental health advocates" program teaches faculty and staff how to look for signs of mental health issues, primarily in students.

Advocates received a folder in their November training with tips on identifying distressed students, as well as best practices for responding to threatening or disruptive classroom behavior.

U of M Disability Resource Center Director Donna Johnson said these advocates are not meant to serve as therapists, but rather as people who can provide students with a variety of mental health resources on campus.

The advocates will partake in another training session in February, and the program will be evaluated at the end of the spring semester. ■ (Source: University of Minnesota Daily)

Hansmeier faces new allegations

Controversial attorney Paul Hansmeier is being investigated by the FBI for past work representing a nonprofit suing businesses for violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Hansmeier, who was recently indicted for offenses related to copyright trolling, is now accused by a former client of withholding legal proceeds for the disability lawsuits.

Before his law license was suspended, Hansmeier represented the Disability Support Alliance, or DSA. Hansmeier would sue businesses for minor violations of the ADA, using “testers” who would look for violations. The DSA now claims most of the settlements went to Hansmeier and people who tested the businesses. The Dakota County Attorney’s office is reviewing possible charges against the four testers. The case follows an investigation by the Burnsville Police Department.

Hansmeier’s wife continues to file access-related lawsuits, but not for the DSA. ■ (Source: KMSP TV)

Can Do Canine’s van is back on the road thanks to a local tire company. The New Hope-based nonprofit, which raises and trains assistance dogs for people with a variety of disabilities, thought the Grinch had visited Christmas Eve. Staff found the van on jacks and all four of its tires missing. Initially Can Do Canines asked the thief to return the tires and take the jacks back, no questions asked.

But many people, upon hearing about the theft, stepped up with offers of help. That includes a tire store. Kirk Sodergren, store manager of Tires Plus in New Hope, stepped in and replaced all of the wheels and tires and gave the van a fresh oil change. The organization said it has also received multiple financial contributions which will go towards maintenance for the rest of its vehicle fleet.

“We are so grateful for the generous contributions from Tires Plus and from all the people who stepped up to help. It is wonderful to hear from all these people who have the Christmas spirit!” said Al Peters, executive director of Can Do Canines. ■ (Source: KARE 11 News)

Housing ordinance raises concerns

A recently passed West St. Paul ordinance restricts where some people with disabilities who receive government rental assistance and support services can live, barring them from areas zoned for townhouses or apartments in the future.

The city’s police department said it has been overburdened with calls from apartment buildings with residents with disabilities. Disability advocates contend the ordinance is discriminatory, and Dakota County officials say it “severely restricts choice” for the disabled.

The ordinance comes after a yearlong West St. Paul moratorium on issuing new group home licenses, which began in summer 2015.

Roberta Opheim, the state ombudsman for mental health and developmental disabilities, said the ordinance may conflict with federal fair housing rules.

West St. Paul officials said the

ordinance is aimed at companies that are providing the apartments.

“It’s not the people we’re regulating — we’re regulating the business, and that’s how we had to view it,” said City Attorney Kori Land. She said it’s not fair to the rest of the community to allow some housing units to tie up police or other public services.

Residents who receive benefits that the state calls “registered housing with services” live independently but qualify for services such as transportation, money management or nursing assistance.

Andrea Zuber, county social services director, wrote West St. Paul a letter objecting to the ordinance.

Zuber said that Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan, mandated by a 1999 U.S. Supreme Court decision, emphasizes that people with disabilities must be allowed to choose appropriate places to live within a community. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

Woman stole from care facility clients

A former employee at a Red Wing care facility for persons with developmental disabilities has been accused of stealing more than $4,500 from its clients. Jamie Faith Cable, 31, of Bay City, Wis., faces two counts of financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult and one count of financial transaction card-fraud, all felonies.

The investigation began in August, when the director of REM River Bluffs Park Heights in Red Wing contacted police about a theft of client funds by an employee. An audit had indicated that money was missing.

Cable, who was program coordinator at REM, told another employee that she had taken money from all 11 clients.

Court documents indicated that Cable said she needed to pay bills, was going to replace the money and was remorseful. She confessed to taking a total of $4,682.48 from January through August. She withdrew cash at ATMs using the clients' debit cards, to reload her own debit card with funds and by using clients' cash to buy money orders for herself.

She's been released on her own recognizance and is due back in Goodhue County District Court in February. ■ (Source: Rochester Post-Bulletin)

Guardianship changes are eyed

A coalition of Minnesota nonprofits is developing an alternative to a system in which vulnerable adults live under the supervision of a court-appointed guardian. Guardians have broad authority over the money, medical care and personal relationships of people under their care, but many guardians have stolen from those they are trusted to help and protect.

Advocates have said the approach known as "supportive decision making," would allow more flexibility for vulnerable adults. The goal is to figure out areas where a client needs help making decisions and then developing a customized plan.

Volunteers of America of Minnesota and Wisconsin is creating the system with help from a $1 million federal grant. The group will connect vulnerable adults with relatives and social workers who have expertise in caring for people with disabilities. In order to build the system, Volunteers of America wants to create a center to promote supported decision making for older persons and adults with disabilities.

"This has the potential to be a revolutionary approach," said Anita Raymond, project director at Volunteers of America. "We are seeking to change the culture in Minnesota of defaulting to the use of guardianship."

"Guardianship is a forced bludgeon," said Amanda Vickstrom, executive director of the Minnesota Elder Justice Center in St. Paul, one of the groups leading the effort. "Before we strip away all of a person's rights, we have a duty to explore less-restrictive alternatives."

Advocates said hundreds of Minnesota residents could regain control over basic decisions such as where to live, whom to date and how to spend their money if the model catches on. Minnesota courts receive 1,500 to 2,000 petitions for guardianship each year. Judges often grant them unlimited powers under the law. ■ (Source: Associated Press)

BDC MANAGEMENT CO. MAY BE ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS for our accessible waiting lists at the following affordable communities

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

Please call us for more information.

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

January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 7

DIRECTORY OF ORGANIZATIONS 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

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

Opportunity Partners

V-952-930-7696

policy@opportunities.org www.opportunities.org

PACER Center, Inc.

V-952-838-9000

TTY-952-838-0190

SEIU Healthcare Minnesota

TF-855-282-3769

United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota

V-651-265-7361

F-651-628-4484

www.ucpmn.org

Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI)

V-651-645-7271

TTY-800-466-7722

www.accessiblespace.org

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

TTY-651-695-5802

www.dungarvin.com

Mary T. Inc. Assisted Living

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

F-651-699-7265

www.dungarvin.com

Mary T. Inc. Human Service Programs

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance

V-612-378-2742

TTY-800-669-6442

www.braininjurymn.org

Opportunity Partners/TBI Metro Services

V-651-306-2868

V-952-500-8572

www.opportunities.org

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

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

TTY-651-695-5802

www.dungarvin.com

Living Well Disability Services

V-651-688-8808

F-651-688-8892

www.livingwell.org

Mary T. Inc. Human Service 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

So. MN Independent Living Enterprises & Services

V/TTY-507-345-7139

TF-888-676-6498

www.smilescil.org

www.pacer.org www.UnitedCareWorkersMN.org

ASSISTED LIVING

BRAIN INJURY

CHEMICAL HEALTH Vinland National Center

COMMUNITY LIVING

Experiences & adventures for all abilities

• Summer, Day & Winter Camp • true StriDeS therapy horSeS • team QueSt Camp Courage Maple Lake

Camp Friendship Annandale

Camp eden Wood Eden Prairie

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952.852.0101 | truefriends.org

January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 8 DIRECTORY OF ORGANIZATIONS MEMBER

Founded in 1965, our mission is to serve our community and people with disabilities as we live and work together.

Each year, Lifeworks supports more than 800 individuals with disabilities who work at community businesses and earn nearly $4 million in wages.

The people we serve have a diverse array of disabilities – from Autism and Down syndrome to cerebral palsy and seizure disorder.

We pride ourselves on our strong commitment to community-based programs, whether the people we serve want to work in the community or continue to challenge themselves through life-long learning.

2965 Lone Oak Dr, Ste 160, 55121 Website: lifeworks.org Phone: (612) 651-454-2732 • Toll-Free: (866) 454-2732 Did you know you can join the Directory for $60/yr?

Available online year-round an in four print editions.

DIRECTORY OF ORGANIZATIONS CONSUMER-DIRECTED COMMUNITY SUPPORTS Accra

V-952-935-3515

Community Involvement Programs (CIP)

V-612-362-4437

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

MRC - Minnesota Resource Center

V-612-752-8100

TTY-612-752-8019

www.mrc-mn.org

Upstream Arts

V-612-331-4584

F-612-353-6638

www.upstreamarts.org

www.cipmn.org

EDUCATION EMPLOYMENT/VOCATION Ally People Solutions

V-651-641-0709

F-651-641-0976

www.allypeoplesolutions.org

Autism Works

V-612-315-2456

F-763-592-7907

www.autism-words.com

Chrestomathy, Inc.

V-952-974-0339

F-952-974-0307

www.chrestomathyinc.org

Community Involvement Programs (CIP)

V-612-353-4595x101

V-612-353-4595x102

www.cipmn.org

Courage Kenny Rehabilition Institute

V-612-775-2569

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

TTY-651-695-5802

www.dungarvin.com

ESR ( formerly East Suburban Resources, Inc.)

V-651-351-0190

esr@esrworks.org

www.esrworks.org

Equip A Life (formerly Assistive Techology of MN)

V-763-479-8239

TF-866-535-8239

www.equipalife.org

Fraser Transition Services

V-612-767-5180

Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota

V-651-379-5800

F-651-379-5803

www.goodwilleasterseals.org

Kaposia Inc.

V/TTY-651-224-6974

F-651-224-7249

www.kaposia.com

Lifetrack - Minneapolis

V-612-788-8855

F-612-788-8577

www.lifetrack-mn.org

Lifetrack - St. Paul

V-651-227-8471

TTY-651-227-3779

www.lifetrack-mn.org

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

Midwest Special Services, Inc.

V-651-778-1000

F-612-331-3444

www.mwsservices.org

Minnesota Diversified Industries (MDI)

V-651-999-8200

F-651-999-8242

www.mdi.org

MRCI Worksource

V-507-386-5000

F-507-345-5991

www.mrciworksource.org

Opportunity Partners

V-612-839-4476

vocservices@opportunities.org

Opportunity Services

V-877-873-0500

www.oppserv.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

Work Incentives Connection

V-651-632-5113

TF-800-976-6728

www.mnworkincentives.com

Minnesota State Council on Disability

V/TTY-651-361-7800

TTY-800-945-8913

www.disability.state.mn.us

MN Gov. Council on Developmental Disabilities

V-651-296-4018

TF-800-627-3529

www.mncdd.org

STAR Program

V-651-201-2640

TF-888-234-1267

www.starprogram.state.mn.us

F-612-262-8801

www.axishealth.com

www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny

www.fraser.org

GOVERNMENT

HEALTH CARE COORDINATION AXIS Healthcare

V-612-262-8800

January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 9

DIRECTORY OF ORGANIZATIONS HEALTH CARE PLANS Cornerstone Solutions

TF-888-562-8000

TTY-800-627-3529

www.cornerstone-solutions.org

Medica

V-800-266-2157

TTY-800-855-2880

www.medica.com

UCare

V-800-707-1711

TTY-800-688-2534

www.ucare.org

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES Break-Thru Home Care, Inc.

V--763-502-1505

F-763-502-6777

www.breakthrucare.com

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

People Enhancing People (PEP)

V-763-586-0049

F-651-234-0864

www.pepeople.org

V-763-772-9963

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com/hospice_care. php

HOSPICE CARE Mary T. Inc. Hospice Care

HOUSING-CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING 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

Beyond Barriers Minneapolis

V-651-462-3444

TF-800-561-2223

www.beyondbarriers.com

Equip A Life (formerly Assistive Techology of MN)

V-763-479-8239

Hibbing-218-741-9134

www.equipalife.org

Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI)

V-651-645-7271

TTY-800-466-7722

www.accessiblespace.org

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

TTY-651-695-5802

www.dungarvin.com

Ebenezer Park Apartments

V-612-879-2233

TTY-612-879-8889

www.fairviewebenezer.org

HousingLink

V-612-522-2500

F-612-521-1577

www.housinglink.org

National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc

V-651-639-9799

F-651-639-9699

www.nhhiaccessiblehousing.com

Villas and Townhomes by Mary T. Inc.

V-763-754-2505

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

Equip A Life (formerly Assistive Techology of MN)

V-763-479-8239

TF-866-535-8239

www.equipalife.org

Minnesota State 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

STAR Program

V-651-201-2640

TF-888-234-1267

www.starprogram.state.mn.us

United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota

V-651-265-7361

F-651-628-4484

www.ucpmn.org

V-651-294-0710

TF-800-886-7201

F-651-644-9137

V-612-334-5970

TF-800-292-4150

www.mndlc.org

F-651-644-0602

www.handimedical.com

INSURANCE Lee F. Murphy Insurance Group

LEGAL MN Disability Law Center

MEDICAL SUPPLIES/EQUIPMENT Handi Medical Supply

V-651-644-9770

HME Medical Shop

V-800-258-6313

Phoenix Medical Services Inc.

V-651-636-0848

F-651-636-5746

www.PhoenixMedical.org

Courage Kenny Rehabilition Institute

V-763-588-0811

V-612-262-7979

www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny

DeafBlind Services 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

Community Involvement Programs (CIP)

V-612-362-4434

V-612-362-4452

www.cipmn.org

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

F-651-699-7265

www.dungarvin.com

Fraser

V-612-861-1688

F-612-861-6050

www.fraser.org

Lifetrack - St. Paul

V-651-227-8471

TTY-651-227-3779

www.lifetrack-mn.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.hmemedicalshop.com

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January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 10

DIRECTORY OF ORGANIZATIONS PHYSICIANS Wound Healing Center

V-715-268-0175

TTY-715-268-0177

www.AmeryMedicalCenter.org

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

V-612-775-2277

Drama Interaction, 501(c)3

V-952-220-1676

218-726-4762

www.cokartscenter.com/ opportunitypartnersprog.html

Mind Body Solutions

V-952-473-3700

www.mindbodysolutions.org

Mixed Blood Theatre Company

V-612-338-6131

www.mixedblood.com

Reach for Resources

V-952-200-3030

Simply ArtAble (formerly Simply Jane)

V-612-354-3961

Upstream Arts

V-612-331-4584

F-952-229-4468

www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny

www.reachforresources.org www.simplyjanestudio.com

F-612-353-6638

www.upstreamarts.org

RECREATION-TRAVEL/CAMPING Camp Winnebago

V-507-724-2351

F-507-724-3786

www.campwinnebago.org

Hammer Travel

V-952-277-2458

TF-877-345-8599

www.HammerTravel.org

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

In Home Personal Care

V-763-546-1000

F-763-546-1018

www.inhomepersonalcare.com

REHABILITATION (PHYSICAL, OCCUPATIONAL, SPEECH, AUDIOLOGY THERAPISTS) Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute

V-763-588-0811

V-612-262-7979

www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny

DeafBlind Services 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

Lifetrack - St. Paul

V-612-788-8855

TTY-612-788-8577

www.lifetrack-mn.org

RESIDENTIAL/GROUP HOME PROGRAMS Community Involvement Programs (CIP)

V-612-362-4403

V-612-362-4417

www.cipmn.org

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

TTY-651-695-5802

www.dungarvin.com

Enrich inc.

V-651-470-6204

tom@enrichinc.com

www.enrichinc.com

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

Lutheran Social Service of MN - Statewide

V-218-829-9214

TF-866-444-373

www.lssmn.org

Mary T. Inc. Human Services Programs

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

Mt. Olivet Rolling Acres

V-952-474-5974

F-952-474-3652

www.mtolivetrollingacres.org

Opportunity Partners

V-952-912-7475

V-952-930-4232

www.opportunities.org

Phoenix Residence

V-651-227-7655

F-651-227-6847

www.phoenixresidence.org

REM Minnesota

V-952-945-4952

F-952-922-6885

www.remminnesota.org

Restart, Inc.

V-952-767-3350

F-952-767-3351

www.restartincmn.org

Wingspan Life Resources

V-651-644-2665x100

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

V-612-643-5671

www.PawPADS.org

SERVICE ANIMALS Pawsitive Perspectives Assistance Dogs (PawPADs)

SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES Bethel Healthcare Community

V-651-224-2368

F-651-224-1014

www.welcov.com

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

Equip A Life (formerly Assistive Techology of MN)

V-763-479-8239

TF-866-535-8239

www.equipalife.org

Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare

V-651-291-2848

TF-800-719-4040

www.gillettechildrens.org

Mary T. Assistive Technology

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

PACER Center, Inc.

V-952-838-9000

TTY-952-838-0190

www.pacer.org

STAR Program

V-651-201-2640

TF-888-234-1267

www.starprogram.state.mn.us

SOCIAL SERVICES Restart, Inc.

TECHNOLOGY

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 AXIS Healthcare

V-612-262-8800

F-612-262-8801

www.axishealth.com

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC

V-651-699-6050

TTY-651-695-5802

www.dungarvin.com

Equip A Life (formerly Assistive Techology of MN)

V-763-479-8239

Hibbing-218-741-9134 www.equipalife.org

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

Kent Fordyce

Kent’s Accounting Service, LLC

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

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

January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 11

PEOPLE & PLACES Seven programs honored for excellence in human services

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Minnesota Department delivers patient-centered of Human Services (DHS) care for individuals takCommissioner Emily Piping multiple prescription er recently honored seven opioids and a community programs from across prescription drug task the state for outstanding force focused on improvcontributions to human ing communication and services clients. Recipients collaboration. of the 2016 CommissionThree other programs er’s Circle of Excellence were also honored. KoAwards were recognized rean Service Center is a at a ceremony at the Elcommunity-based social mer L. Andersen Human service organization Services Building in St. that helps non-English Paul. The winners include speaking Korean older two programs serving peoadults in the Twin Cities ple with disabilities. stay healthy and age in Piper said winners in the place with a medical sixth annual Commissiontransportation and escort er’s Circle of Excellence DHS Commissioner Emily Piper presented an award to the Arts Center of St. Peter Board President Shawn Schloesser and artist program, as well as other Michael Cimino, right. At left, Piper honored the School Linked Mental Health - Fond du Lac Human Services Division and Carlton Awards exemplify the long-term care services.

County Public Health and Human Services, represented by Fond du Lac Behavioral Health Coordinator Julia “Bunny” Jaakola. great human services Minnesota Indian Womwork happening across en’s Resource Center, a 200 works of art, many created in Services, youth in four Carlton Minnesota to support healthy non-profit located in the Phillips classes hosted by Arts Center of County school districts and the people, stable families and strong neighborhood of Minneapolis, St. Peter instructors in partnership Fond du Lac Ojibwe School have communities. provides a variety of opportunities with DHS staff. The exhibition coincreased access to mental health “The work we do in human for holistic healing and self-emincided with the 150th anniversary therapy in their school settings. services has real, tangible impacts powerment of Native American of Minnesota Security Hospital, and Working with school districts, the on the lives of Minnesotans,” Piper families. The Food Group (formerly included both a public reception partnership improved coordination said. “These organizations have Emergency Foodshelf Network) and a private event at the gallery for and planning around student mental gone above and beyond to make is a non-profit that fights hunger patients and staff. health issues, leading to improved a difference for some of the most in partnership with more than The School-Linked Mental Health educational success. vulnerable among us."

240 food shelves and hunger relief Partnership was also honored. The Two award winners are responses Two of the winners serve people partners across 21 counties. Last Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior to the opioid epidemic. White Earth with disabilities. The Arts Cenyear, The Food Group distributed Chippewa Human Services DiviMaternal Outreach and Mitigation ter of St. Peter, a community arts 6.2 million pounds of food, insion and Carlton County Public Services or MOMS Program is an organization in St. Peter, helped aid cluding 1.4 million pounds of fresh Health and Human Services formed innovative and effective response patient recovery, reduce stigma of produce, to more than 5 million a unique partnership to provide to the opioid epidemic impacting mental illness and strengthen comindividuals. school-linked mental health therapy pregnant Native mothers and their munity connections with “Changing Watch videos about the 2016 services for American Indian and babies on the White Earth Nation Minds: Work by Patients at St. Peter Commissioner’s Circle of ExcelCarlton County children. Through that includes a culturally-specific Regional Treatment Center.” The lence Award recipients at YouTube. the use of therapists from Fond du holistic treatment program. Morrifirst-of-its-kind public exhibition com/MinnesotaDHS ■ Lac Behavioral Health and Carlton son County Accountable Commuin May 2016 featured more than County Public Health and Human nity for Health is a partnership that

Spiritual Gait wins kudos from reviewers

in Access Press. His work In his first book-length publication, Spiritual has also appeared in Gait, poet Steven J. Jaabout two dozen poetry cobson strives to illumiand literary magazines nate the glory of God the including Linnet’s Wings, creator by examining and Burningword Literary rejoicing the many wonJournal, Eunoia Review, ders of nature, including Little Red Tree Publishing, our physical surroundIndiana Voice Journal, ings—the sky, the earth, Leaves of Ink, Aphelion, a river—as well as the Thought Notebook and delight of children and Storyteller Magazine. other aspects of being He is a featured poet in Steven J. Jacobson human. His compositions metric conversions: poetry feature both language and concepts of our time (Editura StudIS, 2013) a that are at once accessible to all and compilation of poetry described by inspirational. author and translator Taner Murat as The Hopkins resident is a lifelong an act of “intercultural exchange.”

Midwesterner. Jacobson lives with a An e-book, Spiritual Gait was form of schizo-affective disorder, but recently published in June 2016 by continues enjoying life and pursuing a Storyteller Magazine and a second wide range of interests. book is pending in paperback and Jacobson’s work has been published will be published in early 2017 called

Spiritual Realm.

Spiritual Gait has won praise from reviewers. “Most poetry collections are fairly dense and inaccessible, which tend to regulate the entire literary genre to an audience of college-educated followers and specialty readers,” said Diane Donovan, senior book reviewer for the Mid-West Book Review. “Not so Spiritual Gait, a collection of simple free verse writings about daily occurrences, relationships with God, soul rebirth and more.

It is a celebration that is decidedly religious in tone. Readers with affection for spiritual sentiments will find it a prerequisite to appreciating works that center upon creation, joy, and life's little facets …

Whether it's observations of nature or observations of children, Spiritual Gait is an accessible, simple

Longtime self-advocate weds

Newlyweds Caryn Diercks and Larry Lubbers celebrated their marriage with family and friends at Mancini’s Char House in November, with toasts, stories, gifts and fellowship. The couple looks forward to enjoying their new life together.

Lubbers is a longtime Advocating Change Together (ACT) board member, motivational speaker and self-advocacy leader. He has traveled around the world through his work with ACT, focusing on the rights of people with disabilities. A key part

of his message is to get “all of our brothers and sisters” with developmental disabilities out of institutions.

Lubbers has been interviewed about his work by the Star Tribune and Twin Cities Public Television. A former resident of the state institution at Faribault, Lubbers was one of the leaders in getting numbered headstones there replaced with headstones bearing the names of deceased residents, through the Remembering With Dignity project.

Caryn Diercks and Larry Lubbers

collection recommended for spiritual readers who seek light, simple, and joyful observational pieces.”

Learn more about the author and his work at stevenjjacobson.wordpress.com.

The eBook can be purchased through Mockingbird Lane Press, at www.mockingbirdlanepress.com or amazon.com. The ISBN is 978-194556306-5 Area bookstores that carry the paperback version of the book are Boneshaker Books, 2002 23rd Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-871-7110; Magers & Quinn Bookstore, 3038 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-822-4611; Eat My Words Bookstore, 1228 2nd St. N.E., Minneapolis, 651-243-1756 and Subtext Bookstore, 6th W. 5th St., St. Paul, 651-493-2791. ■

January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 12

ENJOY! WHAT THE ELF?!

Brave New Workshop hosts its hilarious Holiday Revue at Brave New Workshop, 824 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. ASL offered 8 p.m. Fri, Jan. 13. Tickets $38; use discount code ASL to get $10 off tickets ($28).

Find reserved seats with ASL sightline by calling or online (click on "Choose Seats" and choose seats noted with orange dot). Assisted listening devices available. FFI: 612-332-6620, www.bravenewworkshop.com

apply for up to two tickets for each patron requiring ASL interpretation. Additional seats may be sold separately and at regular price. FFI: 612-339-7007, www. hennepintheatretrust.org/accessible

OUT OF THE SHADOWS One Voice Mixed Chorus presents a civil rightsthemed concert in music and spoken word, at Ordway Concert Hall, 345 Washington St., St. Paul.

ASL offered 3 p.m. Sun, Jan. 15. Tickets $15-$40; $5 more at the door on concert day. FFI: 651-298-1954, www.OneVoiceMN.org DIANA’S GARDEN Minnesota Opera presents a comedy about Cupid’s tangles with the goddess Diana, at Ordway Center Music Theatre, 345 Washington St., St. Paul. Open captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Sat, Jan. 21, Thu, Jan. 26 and Sat, Jan. 28; 2 p.m. Sun, Jan. 29. Sung in Italian with English translations projected above the stage. AD offered 2 p.m. Sun, Jan. 29. Braille, largeprint programs and infrared listening systems available at patron services in Ordway’s first level lobby.

Tickets reduced to half-price for AD patrons (regular $25-200). FFI: 612-333-6669, www.mnopera.org BIG MONEY Sandbox Theatre Ensemble presents a world premiere play centered on the 1980s game show “Press Your Luck,” at Park Square Theatre, Andy Boss Thrust Stage, 20 W. 7th Place, St. Paul. Open captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Wed-Thu-Fri-Sat, Jan. 25-28.

Assistive listening devices available. OC single ticket discount is half-price for patron and one guest with code ACC (regular $40, $60; previews $27, $37). Additional discounts available. FFI: 651-291-7005, www. parksquaretheatre.org FANCY NANCY: THE MUSICAL Stages Theatre Company presents a play based on the Jane O’Connor stories, at Hopkins Center for the Arts, Mainstage, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. Sensory-friendly offered 10 a.m. Sat, Jan. 28. AD and ASL offered 1 p.m. Sat, Feb. 4. Open captioning offered 1 p.m. Sat, Feb. 11. All sensory-friendly tickets are $10 (not available online); call to reserve. Other tickets reduced to $11. Additional discounts available. FFI: 952-979-1111, opt. 4 NOTES ON BLINDNESS A film adaptation of the audio diary theologian John Hull produced as he attempted to grapple with his loss of eyesight will be shown at Walker Cinema, 725 Vineland Place, Mpls. AD offered 1 p.m. Sat, Jan. 28. This screening is enhanced for blind patrons.

Assisted listening devices available. Tickets $10. Additional discounts available. FFI: 612-375-7600, www. walkerart.org/calendar/2017/notes-blindness THE LION IN WINTER Rochester Civic Theatre Company presents Shakespeare’s tale of an estranged family, at Rochester Civic Theatre Main Stage, 20 Civic Center Dr. SE, Rochester. ASL offered 7 p.m. Sat, Jan. 28.

Please indicate ASL seating when booking tickets.

Tickets $31. Additional discounts available. FFI: 507282-8481, www.rochestercivictheatre.org A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE Theatre in the Round Players presents Arthur Miller’s family drama, at Theatre in the Round, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD offered 2 p.m. Sun, Jan. 29. Tactile tour at 1 p.m. upon request based on reservations.

Large-print programs and assisted-listening devices available. Tickets $22. Additional discounts available.

FFI: 612-333-3010, www.theatreintheround.org OPEN FLOW FORUM The Artists with Disabilities Alliance invites fellow artists to the forum, 7-9 p.m. Thu, Feb. 2 and March 2 at Walker Community Church, 3104 16th Ave. S., Mpls. Open Flow meets the first Thu of each month for artists with disabilities to share visual art, writing, music, theatre and other artistic efforts or disability concerns. It’s informal and fragrance-free. Participants may bring refreshments as well as recent artistic creations to share. Facilitators are Tara Innmon and Dan Reiva. Fully accessible, but anyone needing special accommodations should contact Jon at VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or jon@vsamn.org. FFI: http://vsamn.org/artists-disabilities/.

CORAZÓN ETERNO (ALWAYS IN MY HEART) Mixed Blood Theatre presents a story of love, at Alan Page Auditorium, Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S. 4th St., Mpls. Projected supertitle translations in English/ Spanish offers at all performances. AD and ASL offered 8 p.m. Sat, Feb. 4, tactile tour at 7 p.m. Mixed Blood’s Access Pass provides complimentary guaranteed admission for shows to patrons with disabilities and their companions, as well as free transportation to and from the theatre for patrons with disabilities.

FLOWER DRUM SONG Mu Performing Arts and Park Square Theater team up to present Rodgers and Hammerstein’s story of 1950s Chinatown, at Park Square Theatre, Proscenium Stage, 20 W. 7th Place, St. Paul. AD offered 7:30 p.m. Fri, Feb. 3. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 5. Open captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Thu-Fri-Sat, Feb. 9-11, 2 p.m. Sun., Feb. 12. Assistive listening devices available. Tickets for ASL/AD/OC single ticket discount is half-price for patron and one guest with code ACC (regular $50, $70). Additional discounts available. FFI: 651-291-7005, www.parksquaretheatre.org Regular advanced reservations available online or by phone for $25. Radical Hospitality admission is free on a first come/first served basis starting two hours before every show. FFI: 612-338-6131, www. mixedblood.com LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS Artistry presents a floral shop comedy, at Bloomington Center for the Arts, Schneider Theater, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington. AD offered 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 5. ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Thu, Feb. 16.

Tickets reduced to $29 for AD/ASL (regular $41).

Additional discounts available. FFI: 952-563-8575, www.artistrymn.org ALL IN THE TIMING Lakeshore Players Theatre presents six short comedies, at Lakeshore Players Theatre, 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake. Assisted listening devices available. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 5. If no ASL seats are reserved within two weeks of the performance, the ASL-interpretation will be cancelled).

Tickets $25. Reduced to $10 for ASL patrons, who can purchase tickets online with a direct link that is active until two weeks before the performance. The $10 ASL seats highlighted in purple have the best view of the interpreter, are only visible via this link, and will not be released to the general public until the Monday after the ASL reservation deadline. Additional discounts available. FFI: 651-429-5674, www. lakeshoreplayers.org THE DRAWER BOY Lyric Arts Company of Anoka presents the story about a young playwright and his life with two farmers, at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, 420 E. Main Street, Anoka. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 5.

Tickets $16-30; $5 discount for ASL seats. Lyric Arts reserves Rows H and I for parties including persons using wheelchairs or with limited mobility. ASL interpreters are provided at the first Sunday performance of each regular season production. A limited number of seats near the interpreters are held in reserve for ASL patrons until three weeks prior to the performance. Any ASL seats left unreserved are released to the general public. If no ASL seating has been reserved three weeks before the show, the ASL interpretation will be canceled. When ordering tickets, please indicate the need for seating in this section.

FFI: 763-422-1838, www.lyricarts.org MIRANDA Illusion Theater presents a mind-bending mystery, at Illusion Theater, 528 Hennepin Ave, 8th floor, Mpls.

ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, February 5. AD offered 7:30 p.m. Sat, Feb. 11. Assisted listening devices available.

Tickets $25-38. ASL/AD patrons use the code AUDIOASL for $10 off tickets; coupon codes valid only on full price tickets. Other discounts available. Phone: 612-339-4944, www.illusiontheater.org THE STORY OF RUBY BRIDGES SteppingStone Theatre presents the true story of school integration, at SteppingStone Theatre for Youth Development, 55 Victoria St. N., St. Paul. AD offered 3 p.m. Sat, Feb. 11. ASL offered 3 p.m. Sun, Feb. 12. Tickets, mention VSA for $10 access rate (regular $16). Additional discounts available. FFI: 651225-9265, www.steppingstonetheatre.org BAD DATES Artistry presents a comical one-woman show about dating, at Bloomington Center for the Arts, Black Box, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington. AD offered 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 12. ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Thu, Feb. 23. Tickets reduced to $21 for AD/ASL (regular $30).

Additional discounts available. FFI: 952-563-8575, www.artistrymn.org JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH GREAT Theatre presents the children’s musical based on Roald Dahl’s story, at Paramount Theatre, 913 St. Germain St. W., St. Cloud. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 12. Tickets $14-25. FFI: 320-259-5463, www.

GreatTheatre.org THE HIGHWAYMEN History Theatre presents the story of Interstate 94’s construction and the destruction of St. Paul’s historic Rondo neighborhood, at History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. ASL and AD offered 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 12.

Open captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Sat, Feb. 18 and 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 19. 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 $20 for ASL/AD/OC patrons (regular $26-50). FFI: 651-292-4323, www.historytheatre.com OH FREEDOM! THE STORY OF THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD Youth Performance Company presents a Black History Month story, at Howard Conn Fine Arts Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave., Mpls. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 12. Tickets $15. VSA discount, other discounts available. FFI: 612-623-9080, www.youthperformanceco.org GRACE Yellow Tree Theatre presents at tragicomic tale, at Yellow Tree Theatre, 320 5th Ave. SE, Osseo. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 12, if requested by Feb. 5. AD offered if requested in advance. Large-print playbill and advance script available with two-week notice.

Assisted listening units available. Tickets $23. Additional discounts available. FFI: 763-493-8733, www. yellowtreetheatre.com THE NAKED MAGICIANS An R-rated magic show is hosted by Pantages Theatre, 710 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls. ASL offered 8 p.m. Sun, Feb. 12. Tickets $26 to $87. Limited seats available at lowest price level to patrons using ASL interpreting on a first-come, first-served basis. Prices

MARIE ANTOINETTE Walking Shadow Theatre Company presents a historical riff, at Red Eye Theater, 15 W. 14th St., Mpls.

ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Tue, Feb. 14. AD offered 2 p.m.

Sun, Feb. 19 and 7:30 p.m. Thu, Feb. 23. Tactile tour available on request to the box office. Tickets are pay what one can for AD/ASL, regular $10-26 plus service fee. To request a seating accommodation, add a note in the box on the website checkout page.

FFI: Brown Paper Tickets, 1-800-838-3006, or www. walkingshadowcompany.org SAORI FIBER ART BY BLOOM This exhibit, part of a rotating series of exhibits coordinated by VSA Minnesota, features Saori weavings by a group of artists called Bloom. Work by VSA Emerging Artist Grantee Devra Goldstein is also in the show. This compassionate team of Saori weavers creates beautiful art three days a week at White Bear Center for the Arts, enjoying and interacting with other artists from the community. Their work is as unique as each artist. Vision Loss Resources, 1936 Lyndale Ave. S. (at Franklin), Mpls. Lobby open Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. On display through March 7. Free. FFI. VLR: 612-871-2222, vsamn.org/artists-disabilities/exhibit-program/ THE SHOW GRAND OPENING AND CO-LAB EXHIBIT The Show Art Gallery, which serves artists with disabilities, holds a grand opening in its new home at 346 N. Sibley St., St. Paul. The Show’s priority is to serve artists with disabilities. This grand opening exhibit at the new home of the Show Gallery Lowertown includes the second annual Co-Lab exhibit featuring professional artists and emerging artists working together to create original art work. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Wed, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Thu-Fri-Sat, noon - 2 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. first Fri of each month. Free. First Friday of the month open until 9 p.m. FFI: 651-419–8022, www.theshowartgallery.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 home page. For information on galleries and theater performances around the state join the Access to Performing Arts email list at access@ vsamn.org or call VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or statewide 800-801-3883 (voice/TTY). To hear a weekly listing of accessible performances, call 612332-3888 or 800-801-3883. Contact the venue to find out the entire run of a particular production.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES • http://c2net.org (c2: caption coalition, inc., does most of the captioned shows across the country • Facebook is another way to connect with performances. Sign up to connect with Audio Description across Minnesota HTTP:// tinyurl.com/d34dzo2.

Connect with ASL interpreted and captioned performances across Minnesota on Facebook http://tinyurl. com/FBcaption.

• Minnesota Playlist, with a recently updated website calendar with all the ASL-interpreted, audio-described, captioned, pay-what-you-can shows and other features. Go to http://minnesotaplaylist.com/ calendar Arts festivals are held throughout the state.

• Check www.exploreminnesota.com/index.aspx • http://festivalnet.com/state/minnesota/mn.html • www.fairsandfestivals.net/states/MN/

Mixed Blood offers free admission & transportation for guests with access needs.

• ASL Interpretation • Audio Description • Assisted Listening Devices • Tactile Tours • Captioning Access needs are provided for each mainstage production.

Please contact us for more information:

MIXEDBLOOD.COM

612-338-6131

January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 13

OPPORTUNITIES ADVOCACY FREE LEGISLATIVE TRAINING National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota hosts How to be an Effective Mental Health Advocate, 10 a.m. – noon Sat, Jan. 14, at NAMI Minnesota, 800 Transfer Road, Suite 31, St. Paul. The free training will provide information on how to work with state lawmakers. Free. Preregister. FFI: 651645-2948, namihelps.org JOIN PUBLIC POLICY NETWORK The Arc Minnesota’s Public Policy Network provides legislative updates and helps Minnesotans get involved with issues at the state and federal levels. It provides information about upcoming hearings, action alerts, what proposed laws and policies mean, and when gatherings are help. The 2017 Minnesota Legislature convenes in January and preparations are well underway. Sign up by visiting the organization’s website, at www.arcmn.org/ stayinformed. FFI: Mike Gude, 651-6048066, mikeg@arcmn.org

CHILDREN & FAMILIES PACER OFFERS WORKSHOPS PACER Center offers many useful free or low-cost workshops and other resources for families of children with any disabilities. Workshops are at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, unless specified. Workshops are offered throughout the state.

Advance registration is required for all workshops. Special Education and Challenging Behaviors is 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thu, Jan. 19 at PACER Center. The workshop offers information about how parents of children with mental health, emotional or behavioral challenges can effectively communicate and plan with the school for a child with mental health, emotional or behavioral challenges. Check out PACER’s website and link to the newsletter of statewide workshops that allows participants to pick and choose sessions catered to their needs. FFI: PACER, 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237, www.pacer.org YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH COURSE NAMI Minnesota hosts a free Youth Mental Health First Aid training course. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fri, Jan. 27 at St. Paul Youth Services, 2100 Wilson Ave., St. Paul.

Learn the risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents, build understanding of the importance of early intervention, and

learn how to help a youth in crisis or experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge. Participants will also learn a five-step action plan to support an adolescent developing signs and symptoms of a mental illness or emotional crisis. Preregistration required.

FFI: 651-645-2948

INFORMATION & ASSISTANCE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT OFFERED NAMI Minnesota offers more than 300 free educational classes statewide each year, along with help in navigating the mental health system. NAMI also has more than 60 free support groups living with a mental illness and their families. In the Twin Cities NAMI has about two dozen family support groups, more than 20 support groups for people living with a mental illness, anxiety support groups, groups for veterans and other groups. Led by trained facilitators, groups provide help and support. Parent resource groups are facilitated by a parent who has a child with a mental illness and who has been trained to lead support groups. A group meets 6:30-8 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday at Eagle Brook Church, 2401 East Buffalo St., White Bear Lake. FFI: Jody Lyons 651-645-2948 x109.

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

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

Another group meets 6:30-8 p.m. the first and third Thu at Woodland Hills Church, 1740 Van Dyke St., St. Paul.

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

is offered online. FFI: 651-645-2948, www.namihelps.org VISION LOSS GROUP ACTIVITIES Vision Loss Resources provides free and low-cost activities in the Twin Cities for people who are blind or visually impaired. Life skills classes for those with low vision; card games, craft classes, book clubs, walking groups, dinners out, special outings and technology classes are among the offerings. Participants need to RVSP to participate. FFI: RSVP hotline 612-8433439; activity phone 612-253-5155, www.visionlossresources.org MCIL CLASSES AND ACTIVITIES The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) 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. Most activities are there or start there. Classes and events are listed on the website, www.mcil-mn.org. Click on “Classes Groups and Sessions” for updated information or to print their calendar. Please give two weeks’ notice if the alternative format or other accommodations are needed. Events are free, accessible and mostly scent-free. FFI: 651-603-2030 VISION REHABILITATION OFFERED Vision Loss Resources is offering a full menu of vision rehabilitation services, available in clients’ home or onsite at VLR. An affordable individualized service plan will be offered to each participant. The rehabilitation services are geared to provide participants the practical skills they need to remain independent and at safe at home. Services are offered as part of an affordable service plan. Sliding fee scale options are available and a grant from United Way will help continue to serve those who

cannot afford to pay for services. The support groups, peer counseling, and volunteer services will continue to be offered without charge. FFI: 612-843-3411 ADULT SUPPORT GROUPS OFFERED AuSM offers free support groups for adults with autism spectrum disorder. Groups include those for adult family members, women with autism spectrum disorders and independent adults with autism. Check the website for upcoming groups. Groups meet at the AuSM offices at 2380 Wycliff St. FFI: 651-647-1083 ext. 10, www.ausm.org

VOLUNTEER

OPEN THE DOOR TO EDUCATION Help adults reach their educational goals and earn their GED. Tutor, teach or assist in a classroom with the Minnesota Literacy Council. Give just 2-3 hours a week and help people expand their opportunities and change their lives through education. The literacy council provides training and support and accommodations for volunteers with disabilities. FFI: Allison, 651-2519110, volunteer@mnliteracy.org, http:// tinyurl.com/adult-opportunities SHARE A SMILE Brighten the day of a senior citizen and have some fun. Spend time with an elder individual on an ongoing basis and do fun things in Minneapolis and suburban Hennepin County. Small groups and families welcome. Youth volunteers must be age 12 or older and supervised by an adult. This volunteer program through Senior Community Services now includes the seniors program formerly served by the Neighborhood Involvement Program.

Many volunteer options available. FFI: Jeanne, 952-767-7894, scsvolunteer@ seniorcommunity.org

January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 14

RADIO TALKING BOOK MANY PAGES READ OVER PAST YEAR During the fiscal year 2015-2016, volunteers for the Minnesota Radio Talking Book recorded 258 books. Including all the pages of newspapers and programs that get aired, that reaches a total of 186,269 pages recorded during the year. Some people may say, “But I don’t think I heard 258 books.” No, listeners didn’t.

Books recorded but not broadcast are available through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library, or copies from the office in St. Paul. Interested in hearing a particular book? Call Dan at 651-539-1422.

BOOKS AVAILABLE THROUGH FARIBAULT Books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault. Call 1-800-722-0550, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The catalog is online at www.mnbtbl.org, click on the link Search the Library Catalog. Persons living outside of Minnesota may obtain copies of 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 from the last week, on the Internet at www.mnssb.org/rtb. Call the Talking Book Library for a password to the site. To find more information go to the Facebook site at http://tinyurl.com/facebookMTBN Audio information about the daily book listings is also on the National Federation for the Blind (NFB) Newline. Register by calling 651-539-1424.

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

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

CHAUTAUQUA* Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m.

A Crude Look at the Whole, Nonfiction

by John H. Miller, 2016. Eight broadcasts.

Begins Jan. 24. Most social scientists study the individual parts of a picture;

that is reductionism, the idea that to understand the world, we need to study its pieces. But once we begin drawing links between complex systems, we can start solving what appear to be intractable problems. Read by Lannois Neely.

PAST IS PROLOGUE* Monday – Friday 9 a.m.

Blood, Bullets, Bones, Nonfiction by Bridget Heos, 2016. Seven broadcasts.

Begins Jan. 24. Ever since the introduction of DNA testing, forensic science has been at the forefront of the public’s imagination, thanks, especially to modern television, shows like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. But forensic analysis has been practiced for thousands of years.

Read by John Potts.

BOOKWORM* Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

The Heart, Fiction by Maylis De Kerangal, 2016. Eight broadcasts. Begins Jan. 16.

Driving back from an early-morning surfing trip with two friends, Simon Limbres is involved in a fatal car accident on a deserted country road. While no one could claim to really know Simon’s heart, it gave life to a woman close to death. L, S - Read

by Sue McDonald.

Hearth Song, Fiction by Lois Greiman, 2016. 10 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 26. Bravura has a daughter to raise, a house to restore, a business to run and a husband who shows up when he needs money.

Then Tonk Redhawk comes into her life, and he is charming and helpful. Read by Nan Felknor.

THE WRITER’S VOICE* Monday – Friday 2 p.m.

Lord Willing?, Nonfiction by Jessica Kelley, 2016. Nine broadcasts. Begins Jan. 17. When her young son was diagnosed with brain cancer, Jessica couldn’t stomach Christian clichés. God’s will? Divine design? The Lord’s perfect plan? She meditated on “If God is all-powerful and all-loving, why do we suffer?” Read by Pat Muir.

Cursed Legacy, Nonfiction by Frederic Spotts, 2016. 17 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 30. Novelist, playwright, essayist, and journalist, Klaus Mann, son of novelist Thomas Mann, was one of the most interesting German writers of the last century.

Even before Hitler came to power, Klaus fought the Nazis through his writing. L Read by Dan Sadoff.

CHOICE READING* Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

All the Time in the World, Fiction by Caroline Angell, 2016. 13 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 26. Charlotte has taken a babysitting job to tide herself over until she makes her next move as a musician. It turns out that she is good with children. When a tragedy hits the family she cares for; Charlotte is the key to holding the children’s world together. She is faced with an impossible choice between her lifelong dreams and the torn-apart family she’s come to love.

L - Read by Connie Jamison.

PM REPORT* Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

Blood and Earth, Nonfiction by Kevin Bales, 2016. 11 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 17. Where modern slavery exists, so does massive, unchecked environmental destruction. Even as it destroys individuals, families, and communities, new forms of slavery in the world’s lawless zones pose a grave threat to the environment. Read

by John Gunter.

NIGHT JOURNEY* Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

The Devils of Cardona, Fiction by Matthew Carr, 2016. 17 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 17. It’s March 1584, and the priest in a small town is murdered. Most of the city’s inhabitants are Muslims who converted to Catholicism. An adviser to King Philip II is eager to avert a backlash, so he appoints Bernardo de Mendoza to investigate. V, L, S - Read by Mike Piscitelli.

POTPOURRI* Monday – Friday 11 p.m.

The Art of History, Nonfiction by Christopher Bram, 2016. Five broadcasts. Begins Jan. 26. The lure of the past is as seductive as ever. But incorporating historical events and figures into a shapely narrative is no simple task. Read by Stuart Holland.

GOOD NIGHT OWL* Monday – Friday midnight Church of Marvels, Fiction by Leslie Parry, 2015. 11 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 24.

Several people connect in New York City in 1895: Sylvan Threadgill who finds a newborn in a privy; Odile Church, looking for her sister; Alphie trapped in Blackwell’s Lunatic Asylum; and another woman on the ward who does not speak. V, L - Read by Judy Woodward.

AFTER MIDNIGHT* Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.

Almost Everything Very Fast, Fiction by Christopher Kloeble, 2016. 12 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 18. Albert’s father, Fred, is a child trapped in the body of an old man. Now Fred has been given five months left to live and Albert senses that Fred is the only one who can help him learn more about his background. L Read by Don Gerlach.

WEEKEND PROGRAM BOOKS Your Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing The Mayo Clinic Handbook for Happiness by Amit Sood, MD, and The Way of Rest by Jeff Foster. For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing House of Secrets – Battle of the Beasts

by Chris Columbus and Ned Vizzini. Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing The Rain in Portugal by Billy Collins, and There Now by Eamon Grennan. The Great North (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing A Good Time for the Truth edited by Sun Yung Shin and Pothole Confidential by R.T. Rybak.

ABBREVIATIONS: V – violence, L – offensive language, S – sexual situations, RE – racial epithets.

YEAR IN REVIEW from page 1

political activism and her commitment to civil rights.

APRIL • The 2016 legislative session rolled on. Dozens of measures important to Minnesotans with disabilities hung in the balance including bills on special education, mental health, accessibility, state facilities improvements, children’s services, transportation and more topics. Hundreds attended a rally at the state armory, organized by ARRM and MOHR. Several people tracked down Gov. Mark Dayton afterward.

• A Metro Mobility forum drew dozens of people with comments or concerns about service. Valentina “Val” Barnes was so frustrated with the forum and its lack of public testimony, she sent a letter to state officials asking them to “ride a

mile in my life!”

University of Minnesota’s Institute on Community Integration for outstanding public policy work.

• UCare and Minnesota Twins celebrated hundreds of wheelchair-accessible seats at Minneapolis’ Target Field.

JUNE • The City of Oakdale paid $30,000 to resolve a probable cause finding of disability discrimination, after the Minnesota Department of Human Rights found that the police department failed to provide effective communication and meaningful access to police services to a deaf citizen, Alan Read. The police department was required to update its

MARCH Many issues were in play during the Minnesota Legislature’s 2016 session, including proposed changes to MNSure, projects at Minnesota State Academies for the Deaf and the Blind, paratransit, and state security hospital improvements.

• The Best Life Alliance geared up to increase caregiver wages and Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities worked on Medical Assistance reform. A short session meant a tight timeline to get bills heard and legislation passed.

• It was another session of capitol construction, with rallies relocated off-site.

• JoAnn Enos was remembered for her many years of working with disability community groups, her

MAY • Minnesota Department of Human Services Commissioner Emily Johnson Piper called for changes at the Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center, including additional beds for Minnesotans awaiting treatment, security improvements and more nursing staff. That would require funding from state lawmakers. Addressing the needs had been Piper’s focus since starting in the top human services post.

• The May 23 legislative adjournment date loomed with many bills left without any action, including bills that affect Minnesotans with disabilities.

• The Arc Minnesota honored

YEAR IN REVIEW page 15

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January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 15

SEPTEMBER • Metro Transit was ordered to provide access to data to a passenger with disabilities and the Minnesota Disability Law Center, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled. Passenger Robert Burks, who is blind, had a disagreement with a bus driver in 2013. He needed data to validate his complaint but faced a long fight to get the information.

• The 2016 Paralympics in Rio de Janerio faced a number of challenges caused by a financial shortfall.

Some venues used for the Olympics were closed and events moved.

Travel grants also weren’t paid in a

timely manner. The problems didn’t discourage the 11 Minnesotans on the United States teams.

OCTOBER • For failing to protect workers from violence, the Minnesota Security Hospital at St. Peter paid a $20,000 fine to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, one of the largest fines ever levied against a state agency. The facility is the state’s largest for psychiatric patients. Workers alleged they were repeatedly put at risk of serious injury or even death, due to violent assaults by patients. The fine covered violations that occurred in 2014-2015.

• National Disability Employment Awareness Month was a time to mark the many contributions of America’s employees with disabilities. 2016 theme is #InclusionWorks.

• Interact Center for the Arts celebrated 20 years’ service.

NOVEMBER • The state announced the relaunch of two programs meant to put people with disabilities to work. Connect 700 allows workers to demonstrate their skills through an on-the-job trial. The Supported Worker Program allows up to three people to share one of 50 full-time government positions. State agen-

MANY Thanks to Our Sponsors!

EDITOR­IN­CHIEF LEVEL:

PROOFREADERS LEVEL:

KEYLINERS LEVEL:

November 3, 2017

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policies and procedures.

• The legislative session ended with few gains for Minnesotans with disabilities. Major bills important to the community stalled, forcing delays to a number of initiatives.

Hopes were held out for a special session but that didn’t happen.

• PACER Center won a $1 million grant from the Bremer Foundation.

JULY • Minnesotans were urged to weigh in on a new federal rule for home- and community-based services. Meetings were held around the state to seek comment on various waiver services.

• U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank issued his latest order on the state’s Olmstead Plan. Frank approved plan updates in the areas of addressing abuse and neglect, and providing more access to assistive technology. He also granted approval to reporting deadlines, goals for the plan and technical measures.

• Years of fundraising and community organizing came to an end in Woodbury with the dedication of Madison’s Place, one of the largest accessible playgrounds in the area.

AUGUST • A class action lawsuit centered on management of Minnesota’s Home and Community-Based

Waiver Services Program could proceed, a U.S. District Court judge ruled. The court rejected a request by state officials to dismiss the lawsuit, based on deprivation of more than $1 billion in services to people with disabilities.

• Opportunity Partners likely violated a worker’s civil rights when a requested promotion was denied.

Minnesota Department of Human Rights Commissioner Kevin Lindsay issued the ruling in the case of Bradford C. Teslow. Lindsay’s finding that there is probable cause in Teslow’s case is considered groundbreaking insofar as how Teslow was treated, because of the national spotlight on workplace inclusion.

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YEAR IN REVIEW from page 14

cies that sponsor the positions integrate employees into existing teams and will provide job coaches. Gov. Mark Dayton said the state needs to “lead by example” in employing and addressing under-representation of people with disabilities in state government jobs.

• Clifford Poetz, 2016 Access Press Charlie Smith Award winner, used his speech as a call to action for Minnesotans with disabilities.

DECEMBER • Milestones have been reached on issues centering on mental health, waiver services and employment. Minnesotans who faced long waits for waiver services may finally be seeing some relief. State officials announced that a lengthy and longstanding waiting list for waiver service has been eliminated. Families had sued the state.

• The Governor’s Task Force on Mental Health delivered nine recommendations for creating a statewide mental health system. The task force took a comprehensive look at the current mental health system.

• Opportunity Partners agreed to a settlement with state officials in the Teslow case. The result is that its workers can seek regular jobs at a competitive wage. ■

EMPLOYMENT

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January 10, 2017 Volume 28, Number 1 Pg 16