May 2014 Edition - Access Press

In Memoriam . . . pg 10

Volume 25, Number 5

www.accesspress.org

Olmstead Many issues still uncertain as planning legislative session nears end continues

by Access Press staff

by Jane McClure

Work on Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan continues with listening sessions and plan revisions.

Another round of plan listening sessions got underway in April and continues through August.

The comments made at listening sessions will help shape the plan, which is going through bimonthly revision reports. The Olmstead Subcabinet presented its latest status report April 22 to U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank.

Lt. Gov. Yvonne Prettner Solon said the subcabinet, several state agencies, a court monitor and the state’s Olmstead Implementation Office have put in many hours to launch implementation of the plan.

“Through this collaborative effort, we are dedicated to full implementation of the plan and achieving inclusive and integrated communities for individuals with disabilities,” Prettner Solon said.

“We want to ensure that every Minnesotan with a disability has the opportunity to make genuine life choices,” said Prettner Solon. She urged people to attend listening sessions or make comments in writing. she said. The upcoming meeting dates are on this month’s Access Press events page.

Olmstead - p. 4

Disability advocates were scrambling at the capitol in early May as the Minnesota Legislature approached a May 19 mandatory adjournment deadline.

Taxes, supplemental appropriations and bonding bills were among the issues still in play as Access Press went to press.

Many important issues remained unresolved as the session neared its end, said Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) Executive Director Rebecca Nancy Christensen of the Brain Injury Alliance is among the many Covington. She noted that some people who spent time at the capitol during the 2014 session. The flags state lawmakers wanted the ses- in her hand are from The 5% Campaign. sion to wrap up before the manPhotos courtesy of Jane McClure datory adjournment deadline, possibly as soon as May 9. ability community because of projects pending.

The supplemental appropriations conference (See related story on page 3.) committee met the first weekend of May to The budget and surplus discussions have imstart hammering out the differences between plications for one of the highest-profile disabilHouse and Senate bills. Lawmakers worked ity community efforts. The 5% Campaign, toward a midnight May 4 deadline, meaning which is meant to provide personal care providadvocates and lobbyists had to monitor 16 ers a 5 percent increase in compensation, aphours of meetings over the weekend. The compeared to be on solid footing as the session mittee was to meet again May 6. wound down. There was also a push to get As of Access Press deadline, the committee funding for the State Quality Council. Reducwas working to reach agreements on how the tions in parental fees were also on the table. $1.25 billion in the state’s budget surplus Numerous other measures affecting mental would be allocated. The money was eyed for a health, chemical health, special education, auwide range of uses, including discretionary tism, and the deaf, blind and deafblind commuspending in health and human services and nities were also up in the air as the session education. There was also pressure to present a neared an end. package of tax cuts that the House, Senate and Two big measures still up in the air were the Gov. Mark Dayton could all agree on. How Medical Assistance income standard bill raismuch to put in the state’s budget reserves was ing the spend-down limit, which would help yet another issue, as was the amount to be allomany Minnesota’s citizens with disabilities to cated through bonding.

Issues still in play - p. 7 Bonding has been another focus for the dis-

Award-winning show

‘Disability Viewpoints’ may have to move

“Disability Viewpoints” co-hosts Mark Hughes and Imani Cruzen taped a show recently at the CTV studios. The longtime cable access program, by and for Minnesotans with disabilities, may have to find a new home.

Photo courtesy of Disability Viewpoints

by Jane McClure The television show “Disability Viewpoints.” which provides information by and for Minnesotans with disabilities, could be affected by North Suburban Communication Commission’s renewal of a franchise agreement with Comcast. “Disability Viewpoints” and many other locally produced community interest, youth activity and sports programs could lose their longtime home if changes are made at CTV. Proponents fear that franchise agreement changes and funding cutbacks could wipe out CTV and take away its production facilities.

The 15-year-old program is the nation’s longest-running cable access show focusing on people with disabilities. While “Disability Viewpoints” and other shows could move to other public access cable providers or venues such as YouTube, program volunteers are quick to defend the staff and volunteers of CTV for their work to produce the show.

The North Suburban Access Corporation, CTV, is a non-profit organization that provides public access community television to the cities of Arden Hills, Falcon Heights, Lauderdale, Little Canada, Mounds View, New Brighton, North Oaks, Roseville, St. Anthony and Shoreview. CTV is managed by the North Suburban Communications Commission, which is made up of representatives of each of the member cities. The commission administers and enforces the franchise agreement with the cable com Disability Viewpoints- p. 5

May 10, 2014 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities. MN Permit No. 4766 Address Service Requested

“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage.

If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.”

— Dale Carnegie

NEWS DIGEST

Safe schools will become a reality in Minnesota, thanks to new law.

Page 3 May is a time to wear green and be aware of mental health issues.

Page 5 Meet the national championship basketball team.

Page 15 Advocate to be honored at banquet.

Page 11 Sign up for Partners in Policymaking training.

Page 12

INSIDE Accessible Fun, pg 11 Events, pg 12 People & Places, pps 8-10 Radio Talking Book, pg 14 Regional News, pg 6

Pg 2 May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin Access Press will be celebrating its 25th anniversary, starting with this issue. This milestone anniversary is truly a tribute to the Minnesota disability community. It is the strong sense of community that has kept the paper flourishing over the years. There have been many ups and downs, steps forward and a couple steps backward, but all in all our community is one of the strongest in the nation. And if you haven’t seen The Real Story, the documentary done by Access Press exploring the evolution of grassroots and mainstream media coverage of disability issues in Minnesota and in the nation, you should. It can be purchased at www.AccessPress.org or call 651-644-2133. Read more about our history in this month’s History Note.

The 5% Campaign, as we go to print, has not been decided but it looks very promising. If the state of Minnesota is truly committed to community services and support, our legislature needs to commit financially to community-based services. The 5 percent increase in wage reimbursement is a wonderful start but even then its not where it needs to be. In my opinion,

in order to make community services a reality and a success throughout our community, we need to make home- and community-based caregiving a profession, with benefits and a true livable wage. People doing this work have to be recognized as professionals doing a service for which they are paid wages that equal or better then their peers in other settings. In order to get caregivers who are professional and knowledgeable enough to take care of your children, your grandparents or yourself, the job must be professionalized.

Every caregiver of people with disabilities and the elderly needs to be well-trained and dedicated to providing safe, protective, high-quality services that enable independent living. We can’t expect high-quality, dignified homecare based on a clear and respectful understanding of an independent living model without a true investment from state and federal government.

The Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Human Services and Twin Cities Public Television, has created a video documentary dedicated to the memory of P. Kenneth Kohnstamm, former Minnesota Assistant Attorney General. They premiered Independence to Inclusion on April 24. The film was funded in part by the Jensen case settlement fund and has been aired several times now. The Honorable Donovan W. Frank, U.S. District Judge, served as the master of ceremonies at the premiere. Frank spoke

about the Jensen case and how the individuals in this class action suit, like none other he’d been involved with, were far more interested in creating public awareness of the developmental disability community than in the financial settlements. You may remember Access Press’ articles on the METO case, in which Shamus O’Meara, counsel for the plaintiffs, explained some of the critical aspects of the settlement agreement, including staff training around person-centered planning and the establishment of the Olmstead and Rule 40 committees. Both committees are developing plans for a more dignified life for people with developmental and physical disabilities.

If you haven’t seen Independence to Inclusion, I would highly suggest checking your TV guide or it can be seen online at http://tinyurl.com/mpox3k4. It’s well worth your time as a lesson in Minnesota’s history concerning people with intellectual and physical disabilities—and the strides that have been made over the years. The film clearly demonstrates the stigmas and stereotypes with which people with developmental disabilities have had to live. It highlights how independence is just one of the components of true “inclusivity.” The next steps we must take are to fulfill the rights and ensure the dignity of all people with developmental and physical disabilities in our community.

Have a good month and enjoy that strange yellow ball in the sky. ■

HISTORY NOTE

A look back through the pages of Access Press

by Jane McClure

The story of disability in Minnesota, as told through the pages of Access Press, is one of victories and defeats, activism and awards. As the paper approaches its 25th year, it’s worth a look back to see what topics and people were making the news in the paper’s early days.

In May 1990 Access Press published its first issue.

The paper described its mission as “an advocacy role for tens of thousands of previous under-represented Minnesotans—those with physical or mental disabilities.” Today’s world of instantaneous communication makes it hard to remember how difficult getting the word out could be. In the pre-Internet days, communication was through a handful of advocacy group newsletters or phone calls. Getting people to mobilize around issues was a huge challenge. Some veteran activists may remember when they used phone trees, when people would call one another to get the word out. Access Press was a means of consolidating communications for the disability community.

The first issue included a congratulatory letter from Gov. Rudy Perpich, who wished founding Editor

Charlie Smith good luck. The first-ever Access Press Directory of Organizations was published in that same issue. That quarterly feature of the newspaper and website continues today.

In the first issue the newspaper published a profile of Rep. Lee Greenfield, (DFL-Minneapolis), who was involved with key human service legislation over the previous 12 years. Greenfield was a strong advocate for the disability community and spent much of his legislative career immersed in human services issues.

He retired from state office in 2000.

Another article in the first issue described the approaching vote in Congress on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Access Press published a detailed summary of the proposed legislation. The newspaper followed the ADA’s early days. Its passage in summer of 1990 was front-page news. “The bill is the most comprehensive anti-discrimination law to go into effect since the 1964 Civil Rights Act,” an article stated. “The ADA will bar discrimination in transportation, telecommunications, public accommodations and employment.”

While it’s difficult to imagine life today without

Volume 25, Number 05 • Periodicals Imprint: Pending ISSN Advertising Sales Business Manager/Webmaster Michelle Hegarty Dawn Frederick 612-807-1078 Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Cartoonist Co-Founder/Publisher Wm. A. Smith, Jr. (1990-1996) Charles F. Smith (1990-2001)

Executive Director Tim Benjamin

Scott Adams

Board of Directors Production Brigid Alseth, Steve Anderson, John Clark, Ellen Houghton with Presentation Images Managing Editor Kristin Jorenby, Elin Ohlsson, Halle O'Falvey, Jane McClure Distribution Carrie Salberg, Cheryl Vander Linden, Walt S. C. Distribution Seibert and Kay Willshire Editorial submissions and news releases on topics of interest to persons with disabilities, or persons serving those with disabilities, are welcomed. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Editorial material and advertising do not necessarily reflect the view of the editor/publisher of Access Press.

Paid advertising is available at rates ranging from $12 to $28 per column inch, depending on size and frequency of run. Classified ads are $14, plus 65 cents per word over 12 words. News, display advertising and classified advertising deadline is routinely the 25th of the month. When the 25th falls on a weekend, deadline is the next Monday.

Access Press is a monthly tabloid newspaper published for persons with disabilities by Access Press, Ltd. Circulation is 11,000, distributed the 10th of each month through more than 200 locations statewide. Approximately 450 copies are mailed directly to individuals, including political, business, institutional and civic leaders. Subscriptions are available for $30/yr. Low-income, student and bulk subscriptions are available at discounted rates.

Application to mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at the St. Paul, MN 55121 facility. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Access Press at 161 St. Anthony Ave, Suite 901, St. Paul, MN 55103.

Inquiries and address changes should be directed to: Access Press; care of The Kelly Inn Offices; 161 St. Anthony Ave; #910; St. Paul, MN 55103; 651-644-2133; Fax: 651-644-2136; email: access@accesspress.org www.accesspress.org

the ADA, some articles in the first issues of Access Press could just get a few updates and be reprinted as today’s news. Early stories describe the difficulty of finding accessible public transit. Metro Transit buses were being equipped with lifts in 1990, but finding Charlie Smith a bus with a lift could prove challenging. It would take 12 years to make the Twin Cities’ bus system 100 percent accessible.

View early issues of the newspaper on www.accesspress.org/ Click the “ARCHIVES” tab. ■ 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

May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

Pg 3

Bonding requests generating debate

Narrow and dangerous staircases are just one of the physical problems at the Minnesota Security Hospital in St. Peter.

Photo courtesy of Minnesota DHS

Capital improvement requests that affect Minnesotans with disabilities are still in play at the capitol, as work on the 2014 bonding bill continues. The House released its bonding projects list in April, supporting a statewide list of projects totaling $975 million. The Senate hadn’t released its bill as of month’s end.

Agreement needs to be before legislators finish the session by May 19.

One focus for the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is funding to make improvements at the Minnesota Security Hospital in St. Peter. DHS Commissioner Lucinda Jesson visited the hospital in midApril to highlight the urgent need to build a safer, more therapeutic facility for mentally ill and dangerous patients.

“Our bonding request is critical for the future of Minnesota Security Hospital,” Jesson said at a briefing with reporters. “We hope legislators will recognize the importance of creating a better, safer environment for our patients and our employees.”

Minnesota Security Hospital primarily treats patients committed by the courts as mentally ill and dangerous. The current facility includes split-level residential wings, narrow stairways and poor sightlines.

These features create risks for patients and employees and make it difficult to monitor patients effectively.

Gov. Mark Dayton has recommended approval of a full $56 million request to construct a new facility but

the House bonding bill would cut $15 million from that amount.

During her visit, Jesson met with employees of the hospital and the Minnesota Sex Offender Program, which share the St. Peter campus. The bonding request would help physically separate the distinct programs onto the upper and lower campuses.

DHS is also seeking $7.4 million for renovations to accommodate sex offender treatment clients in the later stages of treatment. The House bonding bill doesn’t cover this request. It does have support from Dayton.

Requests from state academies have met a mixed fate thus far. The House is recommending $9.6 million for construction of a new dormitory and asset preservation costs at the Minnesota State Academies for the Blind and Deaf in Faribault. The dormitory in need of replacement is Frechette Hall, the boys’ dormitory on the Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf (MSAD) campus. The building was built in 1967. Dayton is proposing $6.5 million toward demolish and replacing Frechette Hall. The rest of the recommended $1.65 million allocation would be used for converting other campus space into living quarters during the dormitory construction period. MSAD has estimated costs at $810,000 for 2014 and $9.9 million for 2015.

The House didn’t recommend a $1.5 million to complete renovation of Pollard Hall, a second boys’ dormitory at MSAD. ■.

Information from DHS was used in this article.

Anti-bullying measures approved, signed into law changes. Before it passed the Senate, the bill did The start of Minnesota’s 2014-2015 academic see several changes. Many of these revisions year means the full implementation of the Safe were agreed to by the bill’s chief Senate author, and Supportive Minnesota Schools act. Eleven Sen. Scott Dibble (DFL-Minneapolis). Dibble hours of floor debate ended early in the morning and Sen. Greg Clausen (DFL-Apple Valley) April 9 as the House voted 69-63 to approve the worked with school administrators on changes bill. Gov. Mark Dayton signed the bill into law that would implement the bill more effectively on the capitol steps late that afternoon. It had once it became law, without weakening the won approval earlier from the Senate. bill’s protections.

Parts of the law go into effective immediately.

Some changes were made to mollify foes, The rest goes into effect July 1. The measure such as removing a volunteer training requirecreates stronger protections for all students from ment and not having stringent reporting requirebullying, including students with disabilities. It ments. will also give parents, students, and teachers Opponents of the law contended it would add more tools to deal more effectively with bullycosts for schools, take away local control and in ing incidents that occur. the case of some parochial schools, would imAnti-bullying legislation has been a focus at pose values contrary to those of a particular the capitol for years. Several disability advocacy groups were part of the Safe Schools for All Kurt Rutzen, Bridget Siljander and Imani Cruzen showed their support for faith. Another issue is costs of implementation, which have been estimated at $5 to $25 million.

Coalition, which represented more than 140 or- anti-bullying legislation.

Photo courtesy of The Arc Minnesota Districts will not have to adopt the state’s model ganizations statewide. Groups included The Arc policy unless they decline to craft one of their Minnesota, The Arc Greater Twin Cities, Students with disabilities are twice as likely to be own. Many school districts already have anti-bullying PACER, Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with bullied as those without disabilities. While some policies in place. The law requires that school disDisabilities and Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance. school districts made changes in recent year to protricts track and investigate cases of bullying and do Several disability advocacy groups made passage grams and policies against bullying, many teachers, more to train faculty and staff on preventative meaof the legislation one of their top priorities for the parents and students in other districts were still look2014 session. Disability advocates were among the ing for and calling for guidance and resources on how sures. ■ Information from The Arc Minnesota was used in many supporters who attended Senate hearings, to make their schools safer for all students. spoke at rallies at the capitol and visited key legislaDespite its lengthy floor debate, the House took the this article. tors to ensure the bill received the floor votes needed.

Senate’s version of the bill and approved it without

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Pg 4 May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

TO THE EDITOR

Caregiver wage increase needed I recently read the article published on April 10th headlined, “Caregivers could see wage hike approved.” I strongly support the idea that the increase in the caregiver wages would help improve the quality of care for individuals and allow caregivers to support themselves financially.

Wages in home- and community-based services are behind other jobs. Why is it that in 2013 nursing home workers won a rate increase of 5 percent for employee’s wages and individuals in home and community settings who serve the disabilities and the elderly only got a rate increase of 1 percent? Caregivers have extremely physically and emotionally demanding jobs. This is not fair.

I have worked at two group homes for adults with dis-

abilities and my job duties have included administering medication through a feeding tube, managing a colostomy bag, and monitoring and changing an insulin pump. In fact, one of the reasons why I left the second job was because I thought the wage did not match the complex tasks I was completing.

Clearly, there is currently a high turnover rate for these positions. The quality and consistency of staff is crucial for the individuals to receive good care. Although the goal is close to being met, passage of the bill is not certain yet. Passage of the bill will help improve the quality of life of both the individuals receiving care and the caregivers. Why would anyone not support that goal?

Joni Klovstad, St. Paul ■

Olmstead - from p. 1 The Minnesota Olmstead plan will shape the lives of the more than 500,000 Minnesotans with disabilities. Its topic areas include employment, housing, transportation, supports and services, lifelong learning, and education, healthcare and healthy living, and community engagement. It will continue to be changed the years, with update sessions twice a year.

More than 40 people attended an Olmstead listening session April 21. Some speakers described the difficulty that their adult children have in accessing services that would help them work and live in the community. Others expressed concern about the state’s lack of affordable, accessible housing. The “silo-ing” of services and the lack of cross-agency communication and training were other concerns.

Some speakers praised the plan. Jessalyn Akerman Frank is public policy directory for the Commission for Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing Minnesotans, “We love the Olmstead Plan,” she said. Akerman Frank said that for the first time, the state has an overarching plan to support all people with disabilities. She asked that the plan be expanded to include more about communications access and communications equipment, saying that those additions will be critical to the plan’s success.

Joan Willshire, executive director of the Minnesota State Council on Disability, asked that the plan do more to address assistive technology needs. “Assistive technology can really help people be more independent—in jobs, in their homes and elsewhere,” she said.

One idea subcabinet members liked presented by Advocating Changes Together (ACT). ACT leader, Rick Cardenas said that the nonprofit agency has received Bremer Foundation funding to start an Olmstead Academy, to train self-advocates to weigh in on the Olmstead Plan and for advocates to completely understand the steps it outlines.

Listening sessions are just one way the community can contribute to the plan. Part of the work in plan’s implementation is to prepare a survey, to ask Minnesotans with disabilities about the key quality of life issues. The survey will be completed by year’s end.

Individuals with disabilities who are living, learning and working in the most segregated settings will be the primary respondents to the survey. surveys will take place over a few years’ time to track individuals’ progress and provide follow-up information.

Another part of implementing the plan is to start tracking Minnesotans who are moving from segregated settings into the community, and to track people who are moving off of various waiting lists. Data collected over time is seen as helping follow the progress of what has and has not been successful under the plan.

The plan provides a way for the state to document its services provided to individuals with disabilities in the most integrated setting appropriate to the individual, and to look at how those services need to change for people to be successful. The subcabinet, which is made up of representatives of state agencies, initially approved the plan in October 2013.

Frank is involved with review of the plan because in 2011, he called for the plan to be developed. Developing the plan was part of the settlement of the federal lawsuit against the former Minnesota Extended Treatment Options (METO) facility. The facility was sued for the mistreatment of residents.

The plan implementation office and subcabinet work with the court to do status updates and explain how state agencies will implement various aspects of the plan. The most recent status updates and plan modifications were 139 pages long.

The most recent plan modifications cover a wide range of areas and spell out pending action items, proposed next steps and timelines for getting things done.

Some actions are date changes for implementation.

Others spell out future funding needs, set goals for plan additions, or quantify plan outcomes.

Every state is required to have am Olmstead Plan.

The plans are meant to ensure that people with disabilities are able to live, work and enjoy life in the most integrated setting desired. The plans also are meant to outline how state government can change its delivery of services and supports for people with disabilities.

The state is to file another draft to the court monitor by July 5 and release a revised plan by July 15.

Read updates of the plan at http://tinyurl.com/n2b49pq ■

May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Pg 5

‘GO GREEN’ for Mental Health Month

by Sue Abderholden, Exec. Dir. of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of MN

As we finally emerge from the cold dark winter our thoughts turn to spring— and green. Not the green from our grass or the leaves on the tree, but to mental health. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and green is the color being used to symbolize awareness.

Mental health is a continuum, from having very good mental health to having a serious mental illness. Good mental health means being able to learn, express a range of emotions, form and maintain good relationships and cope with change and uncertainty.

Like any health care condition, it’s good to identify symptoms early and seek treatment. Mental illnesses disrupt a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others, and daily functioning. One in four adults and one in five children live with a mental illness.

Promoting good mental health, learning how to deal with stress can help but making sure a mental illness is identified and treated early may prevent it from becoming more serious. It is also important to recognize that mental illnesses are treatable medical conditions, and with proper treatment people can and do recover.

Unfortunately, people aren’t comfortable talking about mental health or mental

illnesses. There is a cloak of silence around it. During the month of May we encourage people to talk about it. You can help raise awareness by wearing green— paint your nails, wear green clothing, put on a green ribbon—and then when people ask why, share information with them about mental health. You can direct people to the Make It Ok campaign or the NAMI Minnesota website to learn more about mental illnesses, how to talk about mental illness and how to request a speaker.

Every time someone talks about mental illnesses we take another brick off that wall of silence. So celebrate May this year by promoting mental health and talking about mental illnesses. It’s okay to talk about it! Help end the silence that discourages people from seeking help.

Editor’s note: During May, NAMI of Minnesota and dozens of other organizations are involved in community education about mental illnesses, including creating awareness that effective treatments are available and that people can and do recover. 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.

To reach NAMI Minnesota, call 651-645-2948 or 1-888-NAMI-Helps, or go to www.namihelps.org ■

Disability Viewpoints - from p. 1 pany. Comcast’s 15-year cable TV contract with the commission was to expire at the end of 2013, but was extended through 2014.

CTV community programming is funded by an annual operating grant from Comcast along with a $500,000 equipment grant. The operating grant for 2013 was just under $1.5 million. The grant comes from a monthly Public/Educational/ Government (PEG) fee of $4.15 per cable subscriber. Comcast wants to cut the fee to 42 cents per subscriber and eliminate the equipment grant.

Comcast also wants to take several channels currently set aside for PEG access programming. In its written and public hearing comments Comcast has said there isn’t a need for eight channels. Comcast has also criticized CTV for repetitive programming and has suggested programming could go to the Internet or live streaming.

A comment period on the franchise proposal closed May 1. The cable commission will review all of the citizen comments, as well as staff and consultant reports, before it makes a recommendation to the 10 member cities. Each city then has to vote to approve or deny the agreement. Denial could then send the issue to an administrative law judge.

Program founder and co-host Mark Hughes and others spoke about the important of “Disability Viewpoints” and CTV at a packed April 17 public hearing at Shoreview City Hall. Supporters pointed out the many issues “Disability Viewpoints” covers and what it means for its audience.

Hughes invited Comcast to watch production of a show before any decisions are made. He asked that the impacts on the audience and show production crew be considered. “It takes a village, it takes a lot of people, to do this,” he said.

Jo Erbes is an 11-year volunteer with the show. She pointed out that “Disability Viewpoints” has won seven national Home Town Media awards. “This could not have been accomplished without the talents of our camera crew, directors, interns and ex-

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ecutive producers. Many of these talented individuals have gone on to produce shows of their own, volunteer on other shows or move into management positions.”

Erbes also pointed out that “Disability Viewpoints” is rebroadcast on Metro Cable Channel 6, on Twin Cities Public Television and is shared with five cable companies in other communities. “The disability community turns to CTV and ‘Disability Viewpoints’ for information, legislative updates and help in finding services,” Erbes said. She asked the commission to continue to support CTV with the operating funds necessary for the studio to continue to provide programming.

Co-host Nicholas Wilke also spoke. “My first experience with CTV was over 12 years ago when I first was asked to be a guest on Disability Viewpoints,” he said.

“Even back then I was struck by the need to share and be more aware of stations like CTV, what kind of stories were being told and how did those stories provide opportunity and make a difference in the community’s life.” He asked the cable commission to allow CTV staff and volunteers to allow the ‘Disability Viewpoints’ crew to continue bringing its program and passion for issues to viewers.

“Disability Viewpoints” is a community treasure. For those of us who have been part of the show, as guests, volunteers, and an audience, we are keenly aware of the necessity of this platform for discussing disability topics and issues,” said Bridget Siljander, leader of the Youth Legacy Foundation. Her daughter is the “Disability Viewpoints” teen co-host. Siljander said, “This show has given a face and voice to youth with disabilities, who have limited opportunities to showcase their talents and contributions.” ■

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Pg 6 May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

Treatment of patron, service dog results in lawsuit

REGIONAL NEWS Courage Kenny, Allina face lawsuit Despite repeated warnings, staff and security personnel at Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute in Golden Valley didn’t prevent a convicted sex offender from assaulting a vulnerable adult and even encouraged him to participate in her therapy sessions, according to a lawsuit filed in April. The lawsuit was filed in Hennepin County District Court. It seeks damages of $50,000 or more. The lawsuit names Courage Kenny and its parent company, Allina health System, as defendants. A third defendant is Hannon Security Services.

In a statement, Allina said it takes “what steps we can to keep patients safe while they are in our care including appropriate policies related to visitors who come to our facilities. We are vigorously defending against these allegations. There is no allegation that any employee of Allina or Courage Kenny engaged in inappropriate conduct with a patient.”

Corey Gordon, 42, was charged last year with sexually assaulting the woman in December 2012. Court documents allege he posed as a personal care attendant, duping security for months, and slipped into assisted dressing rooms with the brain-damaged woman.

A family member had warned staff of Gordon’s behavior.

“Sexual abuse is horrific in any situation. But to have it occur at Courage Kenny, where vulnerable adults are supposed to be safe, is a tragedy,” Minneapolis attorney Lori Peterson told the Star Tribune.

She filed the suit on behalf of the family of the woman Gordon is charged with assaulting. “Courage Kenny/Allina was repeatedly warned about sexual predators abusing vulnerable adults, yet did nothing to stop it.”

Gordon has a troubled past according to public records and he has posed as a personal care attendant in the past to harass people with disabilities. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

A federal lawsuit alleging violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been filed against a north Minneapolis McDonald’s restaurant.

Robert Mingo, 52, of Minneapolis, contends that on two occasions, he and his service dog met resistance when they entered the restaurant and tried to order food to eat there. Mingo has muscular dystrophy and chronic back ailments. He cannot walk and has limited use of his arms and hands. He uses a wheelchair and has a four-year-old service dog, Max. The border collie-springer spaniel mix helps Mingo with many daily duties, such as opening and closing doors, picking up laundry and removing clothing.

In both instances, Mingo was eventually served food at the McDonald’s franchise on W. Broadway near Bryant Avenue N. But in the second instance he

was mocked by a manager and told not to eat in the dining area. When Mingo pointed out what the law allows, the manager said, “I am the law.” That drew laughter from other customers.

Mingo has sued franchise owner Tim Baylor and the global McDonald’s corporation in federal court.

He is seeking unspecified damages and requirements that company employees be trained and educated about the ADA. In a statement, Baylor said that he takes “complaints like this seriously [and] we do our best to provide a great customer experience to every customer.”

Baylor, however, would not address Mingo’s specific allegations. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

Parent wants book removed

Judge tells Congress of program woes

A parent in the Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan School District wants a book taken from the district’s elementary school libraries because it uses a term for people with cognitive disabilities that is considered to be derogatory. The book, Sixth Grade Can Really Kill You by Barthe DeClements, will be reviewed by a school district committee in May. The committee could ban the book outright or place restrictions on its availability.

The complaint was made by Farmington resident Jenna Boutain, a Farmington resident and district employee who works with students with special needs.

The book was given to her child as part of an accelerated reading list.

The book is about Helen, a sixth-grader with a learning disability. It was first published in 1985. The book uses the “R” word to describe students with developmental disabilities. The word has been the focus of a campaign to ban its use.

“As a whole, I feel the book is outdated and uses language that is no longer acceptable,” Boutain wrote in her request. “This book serves no educational purpose besides keeping words and behaviors in the minds of our students.” ■ (Source: Pioneer Press)

Testifying before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Human Rights, Hennepin County District Judge Jay Quam said the criminal justice system fails adults with mental illness. Quam urged lawmakers to pass legislation to strengthen mental health programs across the country.

“People with mental health conditions are brought to jail far too often, they too often languish there, and there is danger in keeping them there,” said Quam, who has presided over Hennepin County Mental Health Court.

In April, Quam lobbied for passage of the Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Act. Authored by Sen. Al Franken (D-Minnesota), the bill would authorize $40 million to extend funding for mental health courts for five years, and law enforcement crisis intervention teams. It would also offer veterans better screening for mental health problems stemming from trauma and chemical dependency. Police academies would be able to improve training programs for new officers on effective responses to mentally ill people they encounter on the street. Increased screening serRegional News - p. 7

May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

REGIONAL NEWS Program woes - from p. 6 vices would be used to better evaluate the mental health of new inmates.

The Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously approved the bill last fall. But the legislation has since stalled.

In Minnesota, the criminal justice system cycles the mentally ill in and out of lockups because of backlogs in the state commitment process and a critical shortage of space in psychiatric facilities, Quam said. “We need to fund programs that divert people with mental health conditions from jail at every stage of the criminal justice system.” ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

South St. Paul man gets new home In the hospital room, weeks after he came out of his coma, Cheryl Young made a promise to her son, Zach Mohs. Young told her son, who had been injured in a hit-and-run accident in September 2012, she would find him a new home.

In April they were settling into a South St. Paul home with the rest of their family. Many volunteers and donations helped get the house built. Now Mohs can easily move through it with his power wheelchair.

Work will continue in the future with installation of a lift, so Mohs can get to a basement fitness area and work out. He is now walking with the help of a walker.

Mohs, 28, was critically injured in the accident, which happened in Alaska. He lost a leg and sustained a brain injury and broken bones. His mother had to quit her job to care for him. Last year in the midst of his rehabilitation, Young was diagnosed with cancer.

Rebuilding Together Twin Cities, a nonprofit that coordinates volunteers to help renovate homes for families in need, helped the family, as did the Builders Association of the Twin Cities. General contractor Jon Anderson also stepped in to help. ■ (Source: Pioneer Press)

Learn about rail safety Elected officials, Metro Transit Police and St. Paul Police have announced a coordinated campaign of education and enforcement to promote safety along the METRO Green Line. The announcement was made at the Snelling Avenue Station in St. Paul.

Green Line light-rail trains will soon begin full-schedule testing, running as often as every 10 minutes throughout the day. During this period—leading up to opening day on June 14—rail operators will become certified on the line and rail systems will undergo final testing.

St. Paul Police and Metro Transit Police will conduct a corresponding campaign of safety education and enforcement in St. Paul. The campaign targets both motorists and pedestrians and focuses on obeying traffic and crossing signals at intersections along the line, and properly using mid-block crossings and yielding to pedestrians.

“The beginning of light-rail service in St. Paul is now less than eight weeks away,” said St. Paul City Council Member Russ Stark. “This partnership raises safety awareness for our residents and visitors as we count down to opening day.”

Officers will conduct dedicated patrols in squads, on bicycles and on foot along University Avenue and in downtown St. Paul. The coordinated effort focuses on peak travel times, but motorists and pedestrians can anticipate seeing officers at all times of day.

“Our focus will be safety education and engagement, but we will issue citations, if necessary, as we monitor motorist and pedestrian activity closely,” said St. Paul Police Western District Senior Commander Paul Iovino.

“Green Line safety information and videos are also available at www.metrotransit.org/greenline ■ (Source: Metro Transit)

Miranda Gilbert of St. Cloud visited Sen. John Pederson (R- St. Cloud) to discuss the Safe and Supportive Schools Act, or anti-bullying bill, when it was in committee discussions. She expressed concern for the lack of funding and the complexities of this piece of legislation.

Photo courtesy of Partners in Policymaking

Issues still in play - from p. 1 live above the poverty level. The inequity of forcing many Minnesotans to maintain poverty status to keep health care benefits has been a high-profile effort.

What also drew attention as the session neared its end is the need for changes to the 2013 Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) Program. This program is to replace the Personal Care Attendant Program later this year. The intent of CFSS is to facilitate transition out of institutional care, or prevent or delay future admissions to institutional care. It is also meant to allow people with disabilities to control their resources and direct their own care. But the push to change discriminatory language in the bill, tied to the definition of dependency, did not make it into the

Pg 7

omnibus bill as of early May. That will limit the number of people eligible for CFSS and has raised red flags for many advocacy groups.

Although there is still uncertainty about how legislation will come out, most disability community leaders expressed optimism about the session as a whole.

In a MN-CCD blog post, Mains’l President and Chief Executive Officer Terri Williams said the end of session is an “opportunity to celebrate the coming together of the legislative and disability communities.

“Minnesota citizens with a disability, the caregivers who support them, and a number of legislative champions, have worked hard this session to improve the lives of the entire community of people with disabilities. That is good for our state,” said Williams. “It is an affirmation that Minnesota continues to have a commitment to and valuing of all people. It further affirms that investing in initiatives that support the lives of people with disabilities and their care givers improves the quality of life for us all.”

The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities is hosting the event which will include information from a panel of experts from the community, as well as recognition of legislators and activists who have made a difference. The gathering will be held to recap the 2014 session and get a upcoming preview for 2015 session at 1-2:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 21 at Goodwill/Easter Seals, 553 Fairview Avenue N., St Paul. Everyone wishing to attend should RSVP to Jo Erbes, at 952-818-8719 or jo@mnccd.org before noon on May 14.For updates on legislation, check the blog and posts at http://mnccd.org Many individual organizations also post session blogs, so also check individual organization blogs and websites. ■

National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2014 theme set The U.S. Department of Labor has announced the 2014 official theme of National Disability Employment Awareness Month: “Expect. Employ. Empower.” Observed in October, the month marks a nationwide campaign that raises awareness about disability employment issues and honors the many diverse contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.

“We all have a role to play in—and benefit to gain from—increasing opportunities for meaningful employment for people with disabilities,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Disability Employment Policy Kathy Martinez. “This year’s theme encapsulates this

in three powerful words. It conveys that advancing disability employment is about much more than just hiring. It’s about creating a continuum of inclusion.

And the first step on this continuum is expectation.”

Starting in 1945, Congress declared the first week in October each year “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, the word “physically” was deleted to acknowledge the needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and adopted its current name. ■ (Source: U.S. Department of Labor)

More content moving to redesigned DHS public website Direct care and treatment, substance abuse and problem gambling content recently moved within the DHS website. The move is part of the redesign of the department’s public website to improve its usability.

To help website users find content, DHS will temporarily redirect key links. If users have bookmarked this content or added it to favorites, they will need to update these links.

The new content is located in the People We Serve section, which is content primarily for clients of DHS programs and services. With this additional content,

website users can begin to see the consistent navigation that is being implemented in this section. Consistent, predictable navigation improves website usability by reducing the learning curve for website visitors navigating within the People We Serve section. http:// mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/ ■ (Source: Minnesota Department of Human Services) Regional News - p. 13

Pg 8 May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

PEOPLE & PLACES

Run away and join the circus

Circus Juventas program gets grant

Five Twin Cities arts organizations were awarded grants for projects to make their arts programs more accessible to people with disabilities. Funding for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Access Improvement Grants for metro arts organizations comes from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

The grant awards were announced in April.

One of the groups funded is St. Paul’s Circus Juventas, which received $15,000. Circus Juventas will complete the development of and launch a new Out of the Chair circus performing arts program for people with physical disabilities. The program features “esprit” aerial acts utilizing harnesses and rigging to suspend the performer and minimize or eliminate dependence on arms or legs for performing. The program is currently being tried as a pilot project. It will be offered as a regular class to the public later this year.

O’Shaughnessy Auditorium at St. Catherine UniOutside the Chair, the Circus Juventas program for people with disabilities, recently obtained a key grant.

People with disabilities learn a wide array of circus tricks and get to be in aerial acts.

Photos courtesy of Bill Raab

versity, St. Paul, received $15,000 to remodel seating on the main floor of the theatre, doubling current wheelchair accessibility. The project will add wheelchair seating platforms to both sides of the theater accessible from new concrete ramps on both the north and south sides of the lobby. Moveable seating would be added to the existing wheelchair platform, increasing total wheelchair accessibility from six to 16.

Mixed Precipitation, Minneapolis, received $7,120 to invest in audience-building strategies to better engage people with disabilities. The theater company, which performs its picnic operetta in green spaces, will take a variety of steps to expand its audience and promote its shows.

Caponi Art Park and Learning Center, Eagan, received $2,625 to hire Scott Artley, an accessibility and community engagement consultant. He will help update the Art Park’s ADA access plan and address the opportunities that come from the new facility being built this year and the Art Park’s expanding programs. He will also help the park address the changing needs of its audience.

Kairos Alive!, Minneapolis, received $2,648 to pay for audio microphone and speaker systems.

These will make interactive participatory arts experiences accessible to participants with disabilities, in-

Access Press is celebrating its Silver Anniversary!

It has been a wonderful 25 years.

We’re proud to have moved into the 21st century as a publication. We look forward to many more years of providing disability news.

Special advertising and issue sponsor opportunities, the debut of special sections, history features and more will be part of this year of celebration.

For more information: 651-644-2133 or access@accesspress.org

cluding those who are hard of hearing and have mobility impairments, and those with physical and cognitive disabilities.

VSA Minnesota administers the grant program for the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council. The grants were reviewed by a panel of persons active in the metro arts and disability communities. They read, discussed and ranked the applications. Panel recommendations were approved by the VSA Minnesota board.

The next application deadline is May 16. For grant application forms, go to www.vsamn.org, call 612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883, or email access@vsamn.org ■

Conley wins Segal Award Bill Conley has been honored by the Mental Health Association of Minnesota (MHAM), as the recipient of its 2014 Gloria Segal Award. The award recognizes Conley’s efforts to improve the lives of people with mental illnesses. Association members honored Conley at the group’s 75th Diamond Anniversary Celebration May 8 at the DoubleTree Park Place Hotel in Saint Louis Park, MN. Since the 1980s, many people have played a role in the effort to change and improve Minnesota’s mental People & Places/Conley wins award - p. 10

May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

PEOPLE & PLACES Zangara is Olmstead leader Darlene Zangara will lead Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan Implementation Office.

She was hired in April. Zangara is charged with implementing the plan and improving the way Minnesota provides services and support to people with disabilities.

“I am deeply humbled and honored to support the Minnesota’s Olmstead Implementation Office. I am looking forward to engaging Minnesota in this groundbreaking transformative plan in creating a stronger culture of empowerment, integration and inclusion for all Minnesotans,” said Zangara.

“Darlene Zangara is an excellent choice to lead Minnesota’s Olmstead Implementation Office. With decades of experience, Zangara has worked with people with disabilities extensively,” said Lt. Gov. Yvonne Prettner Solon. “I am confi-

Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota is crowned The 2014 Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota-America is Kelsey Peterson. Peterson grew up on Bay Lake. She attended high school at Crosby-Ironton and the Perpich School for the arts. She graduated from the University of Montana as a fine Arts, dance major.

She will be a spokesperson for people with disabilities during the year ahead and will work to educate the public about disabilities.

Peterson sustained a spinal injury in summer 2012 after diving from a boat into Lake Superior. Her rehabilitation was at Miller-Dwan Hospital in Duluth and later in the Twin Cities. She lives and works in the Twin Cities, and continues her interest in the arts.

Peterson was crowned earlier this spring at a pag- Kelsey Peterson eant at the Northwest Marriott in Brooklyn Park. One message shared by all participants of this year’s pageant was that living with a disability may be more challenging but it doesn’t mean contestants cannot strive to meet their goals and succeed.

The production firm Studio 120 is working on a marketing video to help raise awareness for the Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota Organization and fit its events. Studio 120 attended this year’s Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota pageant interviewing the participants and capturing the crowning of Peterson as the winner. ■

Pg 9

dent that with Zangara leading the office, Minnesota will be able to effectively and efficiently implement the Olmstead Plan that was developed last year.”As the state’s permanent Olmstead director, Zangara will support state agencies and the Olmstead subcabinet as they work to implement the plan across Minnesota.

Last fall, Minnesota released a plan to help ensure that people with disabilities are able to live, work and enjoy life in the most integrated setting desired.

More information about the plan process appears Darlene Zangara elsewhere in this issue of Access Press.

Most recently, Zangara founded Leveraging Your Voice, a consulting company dedicated to serving marginalized leaders and organizations. She also has worked with Communication Services for the Deaf (CSD) and headed the Ohio Resource Center on Deafness. She has served on numerous boards and commissions and as adjunct faculty member at several colleges and universities.

Zangara has a doctorate degree from Antioch University, a master’s degree from Gallaudet University and a bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University. She is a native of Ohio. ■

Pg 10 May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

—————— In Memoriam ————— PEOPLE & PLACES Conley wins- from p. 8 health care treatment, services, and supports, but a few of those Minnesotans stand at the top of the pyramid. Conley is one of those few—one of the leaders in bringing better mental health care to Minnesota.

When there was a mental health issue to be addressed by the Minnesota Legislature during the last three decades, Conley was there.

Conley was an unceasing driver toward the passage of the Adult Mental Health Act of 1987 and the Children’s Mental Health Act of 1989. He was at the forefront of the efforts that brought mental health parity for state regulated plans to Minnesota in the mid1990s. He has worked with legislators, administrations, providers, health plans, and advocates to fill the gaps and remove the loopholes in mental health care.

He has been a central player in supporting enhanced employment supports for people with mental illnesses.

Conley works to ensure that people with a mental illness have equal protection under the law. He believes that equal treatment for mental illness and equal rights under the law are both critical as the state and nation move forward to better address remaining shortcomings in mental health care and support.

The Gloria Segal Award honors the memory of Rep. Gloria Segal (DFL-St. Louis Park). Segal served in the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1983 until 1993. She died in 1993.

During her decade as a state lawmaker, Segal worked tirelessly to change the way people with mental illnesses are treated in Minnesota. She led the way in the passage of groundbreaking legislation, including mandating coverage of mental health treatment in group health insurance plans and the creation of the mental health division at the Department of Health and Human Services, the State Ombudsman’s Office for Mental Health, and the State Advisory Council.

Past recipients of the award are Rep. Mindy Greiling (DFL-Roseville), Robin Wold and Hope House in Bemidji (2011), Joyce Pesch and Ron Brand.

MHAM is Minnesota’s first mental health advocacy and outreach organization. Founded in 1939, MHAM’s mission is to enhance mental health, promote individual empowerment, and increase access to treatments and services for persons with mental illnesses. MHAM provides individual advocacy to guide individuals and families through the mental health system, represents people with mental illnesses in public policy to increase mental health system capacity and protect individual rights, and offers educational programs and outreach to individuals, families, front line providers, faith communities, and the general public. ■

Schadegg shared his love of writing Activist, teacher and Access Press writer Clarence Schadegg of Richfield died of esophageal cancer April 16, at the age of 61.

Schadegg, who was blind, taught classes in subjects including creative writing and independent living skills at a variety of area institutions for more than 30 years. He taught at Metropolitan State University and Minneapolis Public Schools. He also was a guest lecturer at Augsburg College.

His own academic studies were in adult education, with an emphasis on aging and disability. Schadegg was a 1972 graduate of Minneapolis’ DeLaSalle High School. He held an undergraduate degree in anthropology from St. Cloud State University and had pursued graduate studies. He never stopped learning and teaching, and considered himself to be a lifelong learner.

Schadegg was a gifted writer and had written for Access Press since 2005. “Clarence enjoyed every part of writing, the research, the interview, the writing itself and the fact checking,” said Tim Benjamin, executive director of Access Press. He wrote about topics ranging from travel for the blind to blogging on the many roles service animals can play. He also worked as a book editor and enjoyed poetry.

Schadegg also loved gardening and spent many hours throughout the summer tending his home’s landscaping, his flowering plants and his vegetables.

Four years of service on the Minneapolis Arts Commission and more than 20 years’ service at Wesley United Methodist Church were among Schadegg’ s many community activities. He was involved with the Mississippi Valley Poets and Writers Society and was active in Toastmasters. He loved to play beepball, and played in state and national tournaments. He enjoyed sharing his many talents with others and was generous in making sure others received recognition and encouragement for their work and play.

In 2013 he nominated his longtime friends and colleagues Cal Appleby and the late Vern Bloom and Wayne Moldenhauer for the Access Press Charlie Smith Award, for outstanding service to Minnesota’s disability community. Schadegg was proud when his friends won the award and was there to introduce and celebrate with Appleby and the audience.

Can Do Canines honors volunteers

The late Clarence Schadegg, left, is shown with Access Press Executive Director Tim Benjamin at the 2013 Charlie Smith Award Banquet. Schadegg died in April after a battle with cancer.

File photo

Schadegg said his biggest accomplishment was being baptized with the spirit of God and Jesus and to live closely to the teachings of the Bible. One of his many passionate campaigns was to allow everyone full and active participation in church activities, and to ensure that all people, with any or any disability, were provided with full accommodations to participate in worship services.

Nancy, his wife, life partner, and biggest supporter, survives him; as do his sister and brothers, nieces and nephews, his dog guide Cruiser and many friends.

Services have been held. ■

Helgeson marks 25 years The Arc Mower County’s Executive Director, Dawn Helgeson is celebrating 25 years with the Austin-based organization. Helgeson was recently honored by Kathleen Huffman, chair of The Arc Mower County’s Board of Directors.

Huffman said that those served Dawn Helgeson

by The Arc Mower County gave Helgeson many compliments, describing her as “awesome” and as someone who “makes everyone smile.”

Helgeson said she is humbled by the many compliments she received from The Arc’s clients “It makes me feel like I can make a difference for the wonderful friends I work with,” she said. ■

Pioneering director takes new post

More than 100 guests attended the Can Do Canines Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon April 5, 2014 at the Mahon Center in Edina. The annual event celebrates the hard work and dedication of more than 300 volunteers who make it possible for Can Do Canines to provide trained assistance dogs for people with disabilities, free of charge.

Four special people were honored with awards.

Judy and John Schwab won the Foster Home Provider of the Year award. Mike Ferber and Betty Otto were honored as Puppy Raisers of the Year. Mark Falstad was recognized as Volunteer of the Year for sharing his filmmaking talent and creating many videos to help promote the work of Can Do Canines. ■

Jon Oyanagi, the longtime Brooklyn Park Parks and Recreation director, is the new Parks and Recreation director for Ramsey County. He began his duties May 5. He will oversee a staff of 80 full-time equivalent workers and more than 6,500 acres of parkland, including the Tamarack Nature Center.

In Brooklyn Park, he managed 1,500 acres of parkland and more than 40 employees. One highlight of his six years’ service in Brooklyn Park was the construction of a ground-breaking competitive wheelchair softball field, the first of its kind in the Twin Cities.

Oyanagi grew up in Maplewood and lives in St. Paul.

“Jon is really well respected in parks management.

His leadership is well-known,” said Ramsey County Manager Julie Kleinschmidt. “He has a calm and steady approach to sometimes emotional challenges.

He really has the ability to balance the interests of many stakeholders. He has the proven ability to adapt services to changing community expectations and needs.”

Oyanagi replaces Greg Mack, who has retired. ■ More People & Places - p 15

May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5 Pg 11

Interact pARTy 2014

ACCESSIBLE FUN Welcome to the Access Press Accessible Fun listings, a sampling of theater, music, arts, walks, runs, dances and gala events for our community. Readers looking for additional opportunities to enjoy the arts have these options: VSA Minnesota is at http://vsamn.org/ The website has a large calendar at in the upper right hand corner of the home page. VSA Minnesota would like feedback on the design, so users should weigh in on the site or at access@vsamn.org or 612-332-3888 ext. 2. The new website is intended to be easier for volunteers to maintain and expand. Users of the site should change their bookmarks if they haven’t already done so.

For information on galleries and theater performances around the state join the Access to Performing Arts email list at access@vsa.n.org or call VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or statewide 800-801-3883 (voice/TTY).

To hear a weekly listing of accessible performances, call 612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883.

Another web events listing is http://c2net.org (c2: caption coalition, inc.), which does most of the captioned shows in Minnesota and 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

MS walks need walkers Walk MS is down nearly 400 participants, with three Walk MS weekends taking place in May around the state Walk MS is critical to supporting research and programs.

Walks are all over the region and it’s easy to register online. FFI: www.nationalmssociety.org/Chapters/MNM

Enjoy live and silent auctions, art, music, dance, appetizers, a cash wine and beer bar, and get to know the folks at Interact Arts, The event is 6 p.m. Wed, May 14 at Mpls Central Library, second floor lobby and Pohlad Theater, 300 Nicollet, Mpls. DSL and ASL interpretation provided. Tickets are $40 in advance, $60 at the door.

Purchase through Brown Paper Tickets: 800-838-3006 or www.brownpapertickets.com/venue/182718. FFI: 612339-5145, www.interactcenter.com/

The Three Musketeers Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel is brought to life by Walking Shadow Theatre Company, at the Guthrie Theater, Dowling Studio, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD and ASL shows are 7:30 p.m. Fri, May 16. Tickets reduced to $20 for AD/ASL (regular $22-30). FFI: 612-377-2224, TTY 612-377-6626, www.guthrietheater.org/visit/ access_services.

Crimes of the Heart Guthrie Theater presents the Southern Gothic screwball comedy at the Guthrie Theater, Wurtele Thrust Stage, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD show is 1 p.m. Sat, May 17, with a free sensory tour at 10:30 a.m., and 7:30 p.m.

Fri, May 30. Captioning is 1 p.m. Wed, May 21, and 7:30 p.m. Fri, June 13. ASL shows are 7:30 p.m. Fri, June 6 and Thu, June 12. Tickets reduced to $20 for AD/ ASL, $25 for Captioning .FFI: 612-377-2224, TTY 612377-6626, www.guthrietheater.org/visit/access_services

Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Youth Performance Company stages this rousing musical about the coat of many colors at the Howard Conn Fine Arts Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave., Mpls. AD and ASL shows are 7:30 p.m. Sat, May 17. Tickets $12, student 18 & under or senior 62+, $10.

FFI: 612-623-9080, www.youthperformanceco.com

Working Boys Band ADA Celebration Minnesota’s Americans with Disabilities (ADA) 24th Anniversary Celebration is 10 a.m.-noon, Fri July 25 at the Minnesota Department of Human Services’ Elmer L. Anderson Building, 540 Cedar St., St. Paul. Enjoy interesting speakers, entertainment and light refreshments.

Green Line light rail will be up and running so why not take the train? Save the date and watch for more information in June.

History Theatre presents a true story from the days when children labored in factories, at the History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. ASL and AD shows are 2 p.m. Sun, May 18. Tickets are reduced to $20 for ASL/ AD patrons (regular $30-40). 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. FFI: 651-292-4323, www.historytheatre.com

Toast to Hope A Toast to Hope, an evening to benefit the children and families served by Lifetrack Resources, is 6-8:30 p.m.

Thu, May 22 at the Minnesota History Center, 345 Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. Enjoy a silent auction, appetizers, a cash bar, entertainment and the Faces of Hope.

Tickets are $50 per person. Proceeds benefit clients of Lifetrack. FFI: 651-227-8471, www.lifetrack-mn.org/

Dirt Sticks Ten Thousand Things presents the story of a mysterious peddler and the changes he brings, at Open Book, 1011 Washington Ave. S., Mpls. AD show is 8 p.m. Fri, May 23. Tickets are reduced to $18 (regular $25; students on Sundays $15). FFI: 612-203-9502, www.tenthousandthings.org

Enjoy a bit of Brazilian culture

The final installment of Landmark Center’s 2013/2014 Urban Expedition series is 1-3 p.m. Sun, May 18, exploring the music, dance, animals, and language of Brazil, the largest country in South America. The program will feature a special performance by Ticket to Brasil, a bossa nova, samba and Afro-Brazilian jazz fusion group based in the Twin Cities. In addition to performing, the group will discuss the origins of Brazilian music and its role in the Brazilian culture. There will also be language lessons, live animals native to Brazil presented by Fantasy Corral, crafts, and more.

Urban Expedition provides families with an opportunity to learn about the world, highlighting authentic cultural experiences that include music, dance, crafts and traditions from its destination countries. All programs are free and open to the public. Children and adults alike receive a travel “passport” that will be stamped for the featured country. In honor of the 10th anniversary, Landmark Center will be giving away special prizes for those who come to Urban Expeditions in 2014. Urban Expedition is a part of Sundays at Landmark, an event series produced by Minnesota Landmarks, the nonprofit programming and management agency for Landmark Center.

FFI: 651-292-3063, www.landmarkcenter.org ■

Honors for an advocate Help The Arc Minnesota honor Roberta Opheim at the organization’s annual Public Policy Recognition Event. It is 5:30 p.m. Wed, May 21 at Midland Hills Country Club, Roseville.

Opheim serves as Minnesota’s State Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities.

She was a key figure in exposing the abuses and mis- Roberta Opheim treatment of residents at the Minnesota Extended Treatment Options (METO) through her office’s report, Just Plain Wrong. Cost is $50 per person. Proceeds help support The Arc Minnesota’s public policy advocacy program, To register for the event, go to www.arcmn.org; contact Dawn Lampros at dawnl@arcmn.org or call 651-604-8070 if you have questions or need help signing up for the event. ■

Annie Lakeshore Players Theatre presents the Great Depression-era tale of a plucky orphan, her loyal dog and the changes in her life, at Lakeshore Players Theatre, 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake. ASL show is 2 p.m. Sun, May 25. If no ASL seats are reserved within two weeks of the performance, the ASL-interpretation will be cancelled. Tickets are reduced to $10 for ASL patrons (reg. $20, senior/student $18). FFI: 651-4295674, tickets@lakeshoreplayers.com, www.lakeshoreplayers.com/Laura.html

51st International Art Show

by Artists with Disabilities Attend a gala grand opening, or stop and see the art when it is on display at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, second floor, Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, 800 E. 28th St., Mpls. The show opens June 5 and continues until June 26. Hours are 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays. Grand opening, which is ASL interpreted, is 5-8 p.m. Thu, June 5. Free. Art is for sale. FFI: 612-863-4872, sisterkenny@allina.com, www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny or www.allinahealth.org/ahs/ski.nsf/page/artshow ■

Pg 12 May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5 Become an effective advocate

UPCOMING EVENTS Advocacy Speakers offered State Services for the Blind offers speakers’ bureau to make presentations on services available from its communications center. State Services for the Blind has many services available for people who are having difficulty reading the printed page. Radio Talking Book is just one service offered. Any organization, place of worship or community group looking for a speaker may contact the communications center. FFI: 1-800-652-9000 Olmstead listening sessions Opportunities to comment on Minnesota’s draft Olmstead Plan continue. The plan, which is the state’s guide to improving services to people with disabilities, is awaiting community input. The Olmstead SubCabinet, a group with representatives from several state departments and agencies, will hear comments. The next session is 1-3 p.m. Monday, May 19 at Duluth City Hall Council Chambers, 411 West 1st St., Duluth. Two more listening sessions are planned Mon, June 9 and Mon, Aug. 11, but no locations have been determined. FFI: http://tinyurl.com/m88uh4n

Youth and family PACER offers workshops PACER Center offers many useful free or low-cost workshops and other resources for families of children with any kind of disabilities. Workshops are at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, unless specified. Advance registration is required for all workshops. Check out PACER’s website and link to a bimonthly newsletter of workshops statewide that allows participants to pick and choose sessions catered to their needs. One upcoming free workshop is Youth with disabilities in the juvenile justice system: What parents need to know, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tue, May 13. Youth with learning, cognitive and emotional disabilities are overrepresented in the juvenile justice system. Learn about legal rights and why young people with disabilities may be at higher risk for encounters with the juvenile justice system. A Minneapolis police liaison officer will participate in the workshop. FFI: 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237 (toll free), www.PACER.org Find activities at hub The Youth Legacy Foundation has expanded its offerings for youth with disabilities adding an events listing for the many programs and resources available for youth with disabilities. This includes disability-specific and mainstream options where accommodations can be made to promote community inclusion.. Check the forum webpage regularly for events and opportunities. FFI: www.youthleadershipfoundation.org

Michelle Albeck, a Farmington mother of two children with severe disabilities, recently visited with Sen. Pat Garofalo (R-Farmington) to speak about legislation to increase funding by 5% for those who provide community and home based services. This pay increase helps make it possible to retain qualified staff to care for her children.

Albeck is involved in Partners in Policymaking, an advocacy training program. The program recently brought individuals with disabilities and parents of young children with disabilities to the capitol to talk with their legislators. This unique free program is now taking applications for its nine-month leadership training program. Individuals with disabilities and parents of young children with developmental disabilities will be trained to be effective advocates. Over the course of eight sessions, participants learn how to become knowledgeable, confident and effective advocates for themselves, their children, and others with disabilities.

The groundbreaking program was developed by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities more than 25 years ago. “Graduates report that they gained a greater understanding of disability law and policies and increased their self confidence in advocating for their needs. Many have become leaders in their own communities as they speak up for people with disabilities,” said Colleen Wieck, the council’s executive director. The program is now offered in almost every state and in many countries.

Sessions cover the history of the disability and selfadvocacy movements, inclusive education, supported living, and avenues to influence county, state and federal legislative processes. The two-day meetings are held on weekends, from September to May.

Information and assistance Hope for recovery The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota (NAMI Minnesota) holds a free, one-day education workshop that provides families and individuals with information on mental illnesses, practical coping strategies, and hope for recovery. It is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat, May 17 Regions Hospital, North Oaks Room, 640 Jackson St., St. Paul. Registration is requested. FFI: 651-645-2948.

Vet Connection Group meets in Minneapolis NAMI Vet Connection gives veterans the opportunity to talk with other veterans and share their experiences, and the successes and hardships of the reintegration process. The group meets 2:15-3:45 p.m. Mondays at the Mpls VA, 1 Veterans Drive, in Room 1B-102 (1st floor). FFI: Rebecca, 612-801-7415 or Brian, 651-645-2948 x116 Vision loss group offers activities Vision Loss Resources offers free and low-cost activities in the Twin Cities for people who are blind or visually impaired. Life skills classes for people with low vision, card games, craft classes, book clubs, walking groups, dinners out, special outings and technology classes are among the offerings. Participants need to RVSP to participate. FFI: RSVP hotline 612-843-3439; activity phone 612-253-5155, www.visionlossresources.org Adult support groups offered Autism Society of Minnesota (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 . Groups meet monthly throughout 2014.

Groups meet monthly at the AuSM offices at 2380 Wycliff St, St Paul. FFI: 651-647-1083 ext. 10, www.ausm.org UCare meetings UCare hosts informational meetings about its UCare for Seniors Medicare Advantage plan, as well as informational meetings about the UCare’s new UCare Choices and Fairview UCare Choices health plans available on MNsure, Minnesota’s health insurance marketplace. Learn about the various plans, as well as key dates and penalties associated with health care reform.

Meetings are held all over the region. UCare for Seniors has more than 75,000 members across Minnesota and western Wisconsin. UCare serves Medicare-eligible individuals and families enrolled in income-based Minnesota Health Care Programs, such as Minnesota Care and Prepaid Medical Assistance Program; adults with disabilities and Medicare beneficiaries with chronic health conditions and Minnesotans dually eligible for Medical Assistance and Medicare FFI: 1-877-523-1518, www.ucare.org Mental health support offered NAMI-MN offers free support groups for families who have a relative with a mental illness. NAMI has about two dozen family support groups, more than 20 support

Rep. Pat Garofalo (R- Farmington) and parent Michelle Albeck discussed disability issues.

Photo courtesy of Partners in Policymaking

Child care, respite allowances, and overnight accommodations are also provided for those who have to travel from outside the metro area to attend. In addition, mileage and meals are also covered by the grant.

Participation is limited to 40 people. Those selected to participate in the program must attend all meetings and complete homework assignments between the sessions.

Applications are due July 11. For further information or to receive an application form, go to www.mngts.org/ partnersinpolicymaking/ or email cschoeneck@mngts.org ■ 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. FFI: 651-645-2948. A full calendar of all events is offered online.

Partners and Spouses support group meets 6:45 p.m. the first Tue of each month at Falcon Heights United Church of Christ, 1795 Holton St. FFI: Lois, 651-7881920, or Donna, 651-645-2948 ext. 101. Open Door Anxiety and Panic support, meets at 6:30 p.m. the first and third Thu at Woodland Hills Church, 1740 Van Dyke St., St. Paul and 6:30-6 p.m. on the second and fourth Thu at Goodwill-Easter Seals, 553 Fairview Ave. N., St. Paul. FFI: 651-645-2948 NAMI Connection peer support group for adults are led by trained facilitators who are also in recovery lead NAMI Connection groups. One group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tue. A group meets at 6:30 p.m., on the 4th Tuesday of the month, at Goodwill-Easter Seals, 553 Fairview Av., St. Paul (The group previously met at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer.) FFI: Shelly, 651228-1645. Bi-weekly adult recovery groups meet at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Wed at Centennial United Methodist Church, 1524 Co. Rd. C-2 West, Roseville.

FFI: Will, 651-578-3364.

A family support group meets in St. Paul on the second Wednesday of each month from at 6-7:30 p.m., at Goodwill-Easter Seals, 553 Fairview Ave. N., St. Paul, in room 123. FFI: Sonja, 651-357-2077. A family support group meets in Oakdale on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, from 7:00-8:30 p.m., at Canvas Health, 7066 Stillwater Blvd., in the community room.

FFI: Dan, 651-341-8918. A group also meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at Centennial United Methodist Church, 1524 Co. Rd. C-2 West, on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. FFI: Anne Mae, 651-730-8434

Volunteer, Donate Share a smile Brighten the day of a senior citizen in north or southwest Minneapolis and have fun. Visit an elder and do things together: movies, games, crafts or just friendly conversation. Hang out with an elder on a regular basis and do things that you both enjoy, like watching a movie, building stuff, playing games or friendly conversation.

One-time or ongoing opportunities through the NIP Senior Program. FFI: Jeanne, 612-746-8549, srvolunteer@neighborhoodinvolve.org, or www.neighborhoodinvolve.org Open the Door to Education Help adults reach their educational goals and earn their GED. Tutor, teach or assist in a classroom with the Minnesota Literacy Council. Give just 2-3 hours a week and help people expand their opportunities and change their lives through education. The literacy council provides training and support and accommodations for volunteers with disabilities. FFI: Allison, 651-251-9110, volunteer@mnliteracy.org, www.mnliteracy.org/volunteers/opportunities/adults ■

May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5 Pg 13

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY Spring into planting a sensory garden

by Jeni Mundl

May is the start of outdoor gardening season in Minnesota. Adaptive gardening is a great way to get outdoors, get exercise and grow delicious produce or beautiful flowers.

Gardening also provides vital sensory experiences. Many people underestimate how soothing an outdoor space can be to someone who is disabled or elderly. A garden can be an excellent outdoor space for any person for somebody to experience sights sounds and smells that they would otherwise not be able to enjoy. A larger number of public spaces and gardens are now being landscaped so that they can be enjoyed by people regardless of their health or level of ability.

Sensory gardens are places where the whole idea is to encourage users to explore, touch, pick, smell and even crush plants, and interact with objects. This puts challenges on the design, particularly a need to make things robust and to choose plants and materials that can tolerate the inevitable damage from inquisitive hands.

Where resources allow, gardeners can include plants that can be regularly replaced, or choose hardy plants that can withstand a lot of handling.

Sensory gardens have evolved from the traditional concept of a “garden for the blind.” In a therapeutic context, it is a small garden designed to fulfill the needs of a group of people who want to be involved in active gardening and who also enjoy the passive pleasures of being outdoors amongst plants. Sensory gardens can be used for recreation as well as education. Many resources, online and in-print, can help a gardener plan for garden use by people with disabilities.

Successful design relies on imaginative use of materials and opportunities. Consider ways of concentrating or ‘stage managing’ natural events, for example by introducing nest boxes and feeders so that birds can be seen or choosing nectar-rich plants to encourage butterflies and other pollinators. Think of ways of bringing in materials that would otherwise require venturing further afield, such as piles of autumn leaves, a load of straw or bark chips. Plants, especially flowers, are great for triggering memories and this makes them ideal for reminiscence. This is particularly relevant for older people and those living with dementia and memory loss. If possible, involve people in collecting memories and stories to determine what should be planted. Make collages of pictures of flowers and plants.

In a garden it can be as simple as including some containers of annual flowers that are old favorites such as marigolds, forget-me-nots, pansies, snapdragons. Or let grass grow longer between cuts so the daisies can flower, have a tub or two for planting a favorite vegetable (e.g. potatoes, runner beans) or grow some fresh mint for making tea. The design can also include features intended to bring back memories, with an old garden shed with tools, a border of old-fashioned scented pinks, or old clay pots.

If people are going to enjoy the garden they will need to be able to get to and around it. Think about details including path widths, surfaces and gradients as well as access to toilets and opportunities to sit and rest. Consider access in terms of reaching features within the garden—height and proximity of plantings, water and

Continued from p. 7

REGIONAL NEWS Veterans’ home sought for Beltrami County While the U.S. Department of Defense plans to reduce the U.S. military to preWorld War II levels, veterans from that war and other conflicts need a veterans’ home in greater Minnesota. Slow progress by the federal government is hindering development on the state and county levels, according to officials around the state.

Beltrami County Commissioner Joe Vene and co-chair Ralph Morris hosted a Minnesota Veterans Home Task Force meeting in Bemidji recently to spotlight the needs of aging veterans.

“The problem is not our proposed home in northern Minnesota or Bemidji, it’s that we aren’t serving vets anywhere,”said Beltrami County Commissioner Jim Lucachick. “That’s the message we have to send to Washington D.C.” But despite the need, a veterans’ home in Bemidji is a few years off. A nursing home for veterans in the Twins Cities must be completed before plans can move forward in Greater Minnesota, and then a federal funding match needs to be received.

There are 3,212 veterans living in Beltrami County alone. Many are older and have disabilities, and would welcome a veterans’ home. County officials said that regardless of where a veteran comes from, if they are a veteran in Beltrami County requesting services, they will be helped. Lucachick said a site has been donated for a veterans’ home in Bemidji and having Sanford Bemidji Medical Center in the city is a benefit to locating a home there. ■ (Source: Bemidji Pioneer)

Sensory gardens are not only a fun spring project for gardeners, they also can provide great pleasure to visitors.

Photo courtesy of ZooChat

sculptures—so everyone can explore up close. This is important for everyone, including people with sensory impairments and those who use wheelchairs.

Sensory design calls for extra effort to make sure different experiences are in reach. For example, trees may be deliberately planted near to a path so the bark can be felt.

When designing for people with specific disabilities, think about whom else might share the space, especially friends and caregivers. If they enjoy the garden they are more likely to encourage others to use it. Comfort is important and often overlooked. Seating is one of the most important and most neglected features in landscape design. Seats make a space more accessible to people who tire easily, and more enjoyable generally by giving people more chance to pause.

Creating a sensory garden is a project that a home owner and personal care assistant can embrace and work together to make a wonderful opportunity for many to enjoy. If creating your own is not possibility, enjoy other gardens throughout the state. Visit http://www.ilovegardens.com/Minnesota%20Gardens.htm – to find a listing of gardens to explore. ■ Jeni Mundl, lead assistive technology specialist, works at Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute Assistive Technology. Contact her at AT@couragecenter.org

Pg 14 May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

May Sampling

Radio Talking Book Books available through Faribault Books broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network are available through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library in Faribault Call 1-800722-0550, 9 a.m. - 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 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 previous week, on the Internet at www.mnssb.org/rtb. Call the Talking Book Library for a password to the site. To find more information about Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network events go to the Facebook site at http://tinyurl.com/ RadioTalkBook. Audio information about the daily book listings is also on NFB Newslines. Register for NFB Newslines by calling 651-539-1424.

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

Weekend program books

Past is Prologue • Monday – Friday 9 a.m.

The Eve of Destruction, Nonfiction by James T. Patterson, 2012. 12 broadcasts. Begins May 22. At the beginning of 1965, America was optimistic. President Lyndon Baines Johnson succeeded in securing an avalanche of Great Society legislation including Medicare, immigration reform, and a Voting Rights Act. But over the course of the year, that sense of harmony dissipated.

Read by Judy Woodward.

Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

T he Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, Fiction by Rachel Joyce, 2013. 11 broadcasts. Begins May 26.

Harold Fry has not heard from Queenie Hennessy in 20 years. When she writes to say she is in hospice and wants to say goodbye, he sets off on walking the 600 miles to see her, convinced that as long as he is walking, she will stay alive. L - Read by Stuart Holland.

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

Poor Man’s Feast, Nonfiction by Elissa Altman, 2013.

11 broadcasts. Begins May 19. Elissa was taught that, regarding food, fancy is always best. And she lived her way like that until she met Susan, who had a devotion to simple living. It would change Elissa’s relationship with food, and the people who taught her about it, forever.

Read by Andrea Bell.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

The Mouse-Proof Kitchen, Fiction by Saira Shah, 2013. 11 broadcasts. Begins May 19. Anna is a planner.

When she discovers she’s pregnant, she prepares for a perfect new life in Provençe, France, with her perfect new baby-to-be. All of that changes when the baby is born less than perfect. L - Read by Sue McDonald.

nections outnumber fixed ones, and machines outnumber people. But in this era of mass urbanization and technological ubiquity, what happens when computers take over the city? Read by Chris Colestock.

Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

Before I Burn, Fiction by Gaute Heivoll, 2013. 11 broadcasts. Begins May 19. In 1970s Norway, an arsonist targets a small town for one long, terrifying month.

One by one, buildings go up in flames. Suspicion spreads among the neighbors as they wonder if one of their own is responsible. L – Read by Neil Bright.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 11 p.m.

Lasting City, Nonfiction by James Court, 2013. 12 broadcasts. Begins May 19. Enjoined by his dying mother to “tell everything,” James McCourt was liberated by this deathbed wish to do just that. The result? McCourt’s memoir is ostensibly an account of his first seven years, but it expands into a philosophical exploration of memory.

He tells his own story, his mother’s, his family’s, and that of a lost New York. It is a heartfelt aria to a lost time and to an eternal city. L – Read by Tom Speich.

Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnight Nostalgia, Fiction by Dennis McFarland, 2013. 15 broadcasts. Begins May 26. In the winter of 1864, Summerfield Hayes enlists in the Union army, leaving his sister at home in Brooklyn. In the midst of a battle, he is deserted by his comrades and struggles to regain his voice, his identity, and place in the world. V, L - Read by John Mandeville.

Your Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing Ten Years Later, by Hoda Kotb, and Secrets and Lies, After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.

by Jane Isay; For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is My Notorious Life, Fiction by Kate Manning, 2013. 15 airing The Elites: Privileged Positions, by Emily Flint and broadcasts. Begins May 16. Based on a true story, Axie Quinn Xi, and When You Wish upon a Rat, by Maureen PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

Muldoon, daughter of immigrants, becomes a successful McCarthy; Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing Smart Cities , Nonfiction by Anthony Townsend, 2013. and controversial midwife known as Madame X. She disAsk Me, by William Stafford, and Paragon Park, by Mark 14 broadcasts.

Begins May 27.

Today, more people live covers that the right way is not always the way of the Doty; The U.S. and Us (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing in cities than in the countryside; mobile broadband conlaw. Read by Diane Ladenson.

Augie’s Secrets, by Neal Karlen, and We’ll Be the Last Ones to Let You Down, by Rachael Hanel.

Abbreviations: V - violence, L - offensive language, S - sexual situations.

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May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5 Pg 15

PEOPLE & PLACES Rolling Wolves win title

The Courage Kenny Institute Rolling Timberwolves are the new national wheelchair basketball champsions.

Photo courtesy of Courage Kenny Institute

“The Final Four” isn’t the only national basketball championship worth celebrating. Minnesotans claimed a basketball championship in Louisville, Ky., April 5 when the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute’s Junior Rolling Timberwolves Varsity wheelchair basketball team won the national title.

The Wolves beat the Utah Rec N’ Crew 76-61.

“It was truly an honor to work with these athletes, parents, coaches and volunteers this season. Thank you all for a great year of wheelchair basketball!” said Cara Gulbronson, wheelchair sports program coordinator.

“It is great to see so many of our athletes grow up and learn teamwork, independence and confidence. Currently, eight out of the nine members of the varsity level Junior Rolling Timberwolves came up through the ranks, starting on our prep team,” said Gulbronson.

Three departing seniors on the championship team received special tournament honors. Rose Hollermann of Waterville was named MVP of the championship game as well as female MVP for the varsity division. A member of the 2010 Team USA Paralympic Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team, Hollermann recently signed a letter of

intent and wheelchair basketball scholarship to Center. The Institute provides a continuum of reattend the University of Texas-Arlington. She at- habilitation services for people with short- and tends Waterville-Elysian-Morristown High long-term conditions, injuries and disabilities in School. communities throughout Minnesota and western Josie Aslakson of Jordan was named to the feWisconsin. The institute’s sports and recreation male all-tournament team, varsity division, and department offers many activities that serve first team all-academic with a 4.2 grade-point av- people of all ages, abilities and interests. One of erage. Aslakson also will be attending University the largest endeavors is wheelchair basketball. of Texas-Arlington with a wheelchair basketball More than 50 participants compete on four scholarship. She attends Jordan High School. wheelchair basketball teams: the Rolling RowSteve Eischens of Victoria received the Neal dies, Junior Rolling Gophers, Junior Rolling Radbel Sportsmanship Award for the varsity diTimberwolves and Adult Rolling Timberwolves. vision. He was also named to the all-academic ■ second team for the varsity division. Eischens recently signed a letter of intent and wheelchair basketball scholarship to attend Southwest MinEMPLOYMENT nesota State University in Marshall. He is a stuEmployment ads are $22-$25 per col. inch. dent at Chanhassen High School.

Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 The Junior Rolling Timberwolves were one of FAX 651-644-2136 • Email: access@accesspress.org three Courage Kenny teams in the tournament.

The Rolling Rowdies finished in third place after Caregivers Needed a tough loss to the Atlanta Hawks. The Hawks A nationwide provider with over 30 years of expewent on to win the national championship in the rience serving people with disabilities is hiring qualprep division. The Institute’s Junior Rolling Goity, dedicated caregivers to empower and assist indiphers competed and finished in 13 th place. viduals in realizing their own potential!

Several other athletes won awards at the tourIMMEDIATE OPENINGS for: days, evenings, evnament. Marissa Bartels, Delano High School, ery other weekend & asleep overnights, located in the was named to the all-academic second team for Twin Cities Metro area. Experience is preferred but the varsity division. not required. Min Req: 18+, valid DL & good driving Honors were also won in junior varsity and record, HS diploma/ GED, good communication and prep competitions. Abby Donkers of Faribault, computer skills. Excellent pay and benefits, 401k and who attends Kenyon-Wanamingo High School, PTO! was named an all-academic honorable mention, Responsibilities: provide direct care, medical adjunior varsity division. Dan Kosanda, Maple ministration, transportation to activities, cooking & Grove High School, was named to the all-acalight housekeeping. demic second team for the junior varsity diviApply online to Requisition #13-0395 at sion. dungarvin.com Jack Pierre, Edina, was named to the all-tourEEO/AA nament first team, prep division. Emilee Gustafson, Monticello, was named female most valuable player, prep division. Jade Carley, New Brighton, was CLASSIFIEDS named to the all-tournament female team, prep division.

Access Press Classifieds are $14 for the first 12 and 65¢ per word thereafter. They must be prepaid.

Courage Kenny Rehabilitation InstiMail to: Access Press care of The Kelly Inn Offices; tute, part of Allina Health, was created 161 St. Anthony Ave; #910; St. Paul, MN 55103; in 2013 by the merger of Sister Kenny 651-644-2133 • FAX 651-644-2136 • Email: access@accesspress.org Rehabilitation Institute and Courage FOR RENT Lewis Park Apartments: Barrier-free housing with wheelchair users in mind. Section 8 subsidized. One- and two-bedroom units.

For more information on availability call 651-488-9923. St. Paul, MN. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Oak Park Village: We are accepting applications for the waiting list for one-bedroom wheelchair accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient St. Louis Park location. Call 952-9359125 for information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Calvary Center Apts: 7650 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley, MN. A Section 8 building now accepting applications for our waiting list. Call 9 am to 4 pm, Mon – Fri 763-546-4988 for an application. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Holmes-Greenway Housing: One- and two-bedroom wheelchair-accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient SE Minneapolis location. Call 612-378-0331 for availability information. Equal Opportunity Housing.

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SERVICES Access Ramp Rental: We can meet all of your access ramp needs.

Fully licensed and insured. Call Access Ramp Rental to gain temporary or long-term access to your home. We rent or build wood or aluminum ramps depending on your needs. 612-499-2365 Grab Bar Express And Ramps: We install grab bars! Fully licensed & insured. Call GBEAR to talk about your grab bar or home modification needs. We cater our services to you. 612-4992365

Pg 16 May 10, 2014 Volume 25, Number 5

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