June 2015 Edition - Access Press

She’s a winner, Pg 7

Volume 26, Number 6

www.accesspress.org

Olmstead Know anyone?

Nominations are sought for Plan still needs work Access Press annual award

by Access Press staff

by Access Press staff

Work on Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan, which outlines service reforms for people with disabilities, has hit a couple of bumps. On May 6 U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank said the 158-page plan again failed to meet several of his requests again, including measurable outcomes. The ruling marks the second time in eight months that Frank has scolded state officials. He is giving state officials until July 10 to submit a new plan.

“The time has come to truly serve the best interests of individuals with disabilities within the state of Minnesota,” Frank stated in his latest court filing. “Justice requires no less.”

The plan has undergone three revisions in almost three years. One worry for state officials is that Frank could take sanctions against the state for additional delays. A bigger worry for Minnesotans with disabilities is that continued delays affect their ability to gain acOlmstead Plan - p. 13

Do you know a Minnesotan with disabilities who works tirelessly for the greater community? Can you name an outstanding community group that provides jobs and housing, trains advocates or provides activities for Minnesotans with disabilities?

Individuals and groups with records of exemplary service and commitment to others are worth of nomination for the 2015 Access Press Charlie Smith Award. The award will be presented Friday, November 6 at the newspaper’s annual banquet.

The Access Press Board of Directors has announced the start of the award nomination period. Nominations will be taken until 5 p.m. Friday, August 14. Information on the award can be found at www.accesspress.org Click on the top home page tab for Charlie Award. Email access@accesspress.org for a form. Or call 651-644-2133 for assistance. Ask if assistance or accommodations are needed Charlie Smith Jr. is pictured with the annual award given in his honor. to submit an award nomination.

File photo The Charlie Smith Award is named in The award winner is chosen by the honor of the late Charlie Smith Jr., founding newspaper’s board. The winner and finalists editor of Access Press. He was a well-known will be honored in the September issue of AcMinnesota disability rights advocate and was cess Press. known for his politic savvy and tenacity. Smith “The Charlie Smith Award is a great honor founded the newspaper in 1990, with the help and we enjoy seeing so many nominations from of many family members and friends. He led our readers,” said Access Press Executive DiAccess Press through many changes, including rector Tim Benjamin. Benjamin, who was a conversion to nonprofit status. He worked to longtime friend of Smith’s, is his successor at expose what he considered to be inequities in Award nominations- p. 15 how people with disabilities are treated.

June 10, 2015 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities. MN Permit No. 4766 Address Service Requested

“The time has come to truly serve the best interests of individuals with disabilities within the state of Minnesota.”

— U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank

NEWS DIGEST

Partners in Policymaking graduates praise program.

Page 7

2015 legislative session gets mixed reviews. Read our package of stories.

Page 3-5, 13

Mental health saw gains

2015 regular session end had mixed results

by Jane McClure

18, ending with a fight between Gov. Mark Dayton and legislators over education funding. Education – including early childhood to grade 12 special education – is just one of the issues that will be on the table during the early June special legislative session.

“We’re not quite sure what will happen with special education,” said Jean Bender, a longtime advocate. The state’s special education advocates ended the regular legislative session with disappointment as a number of needed programs and services for children weren’t funded in the vetoed bill.

A number of issues were the focus this session for the Coalition for Children, which will be active during the special session.

Dayton vetoed the education bill and its $17 billion in spending, saying more should be spent in light of the state’s $2 billion surplus. He especially wants more funding for early childhood eduRebecca Preston was one of many self-advocates cation. He and the Republican-led at the 2015 legislative session.

House have clashed over what Dayton Photo courtesy MN-CCD criticizes as tax cuts for millionaires

With the regular legislative session over, Minnesota’s disability community is weighing its gains and losses. The regular session gaveled to a close May

and property tax relief for large corporations. The session ended with about $1 billion on the table.

Dayton signed several bills into law including health and human services.

The governor’s signature brought several gains for the disability community, including changes to high premiums for Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities (MA-EPD) and changes to the MA spend-down. A number of other measures sought by disability advocacy groups were also funded, including spinal cord injury research, housing programs, more pay for nursing home workers and State Quality Council support. Other gains were made in the areas of elections reform and the ability to text 911 for help.

Mental health advocates had plenty to celebrate as a $46 million package was approved to expand services. That amount includes $6.6 million to allow the state to add 150 pediatric mental health beds to expand services for children. The goal is to build a statewide Legislative summary - p. 15

The Arc Greater Twin Cities honors its 2015 Changemakers.

Pages 8-9

ARRM holds annual conference and honors those who care for others.

Page 10

Golf outings provide a chance to hit the links.

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INSIDE Accessible Fun, pg 12 Events, pg 11 People & Places, pg 7-10 Radio Talking Book, pg 14 Regional News, pg 6

Pg 2 June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6

EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin We are having what always seems to me as the normal pushing-out of a Minnesota spring: lots of rainy and humid weather interrupted by a day or two of sunny, warm summer.

We have several items to be thankful for out of this year’s legislative session. There will be a five percent increase on income eligibility standards for Medical Assistance for older adults and people with disabilities.

There is no reason that the eligibility should be any different for able-bodied adults than it is for senior citizens and individuals diagnosed with a disability. The five percent increase still does not make the eligibility requirements consistent for everyone across the board. Many organizations will continue to press legislators to make eligibility standards equal for all. It’s been many years of struggle and this is the first increase in a decade; Every year as far back as I can remember, the eligibility standard has been an added but un-passed amendment to some bill. This is an outcome that is appreciated and an issue that won’t be forgotten by the disability community or older adults.

In the Medical Assistance for Employed People with Disabilities program, the percentage that an individual has to pay in premiums before the state starts picking up medical costs has been lowered. The program is similar to many employer-based health insurance policies with a deductible. You have to pay a premium to be a participant in the program. The premium is based on a percentage of the amount of earned income. That percentage was increased last July and will now be reduced back to the prior level. This is another issue that’s been brought up in many legislative sessions, and this is the first time in many, many years that we’ve made a step in the right direction on the percentage issue or “formulary.” Next session we can work to get a further reduction. This is a good, worthy program that none of us should have serious complaints about. We have to keep it as an incentive to work rather than our income going back to the state in premiums. Why work if there is little financial benefit? The intent of the program was to be an incentive to work, and work means a larger earned income and higher asset limits. That’s what we have to continue teaching our legislators, while at the same time thanking them for this progress. This program is a win-win for the state and for persons working with a disability.

The Arc Minnesota held an award banquet on May 26 to acknowledge U.S. District Judge Donovan W. Frank, recipient of the 2015 Public Policy Recogni-

tion award. Judge Frank has been an ally and champion for people with disabilities. He has worked on disability rights throughout his career and now is a key figure in approving the Minnesota Olmstead plan. Judge Frank joins a rather elite group of winners of this award that include Anne Henry (2013), Luther Granquist (2010), Colleen Wieck (2009), and Charlie Lakin (2006), to mention a few. All these individuals are the best of the best at advancing and supporting disability rights in Minnesota.

Speaking of celebrations, Access Press, right along with the ADA, celebrates our 25th year anniversary this year. There will be opportunities for organizations to buy recognition ads for Access Press in the July issue. Charlie Smith, Jr., the founder of Access Press and I have been the only two executive directors, editors and publishers of the paper over that time. I was fortunate enough to be designated by Charlie to take the reins in 2001, and I will be forever in debt for his confidence in me. There have not been many days that I have not looked forward to starting my day at Access Press, in touch with you, our readers and a fantastic slate of writers, contributors and advertisers. The Access Press staff has proven to be a good resource for, and partner organization in, the disability community for 25 years. The community has made sure that we’ve done good work for a quarter century, and I’m very proud to have been a minor cog in the wheel of this great publication.

I hope you have a good month and I’ll see you at the ADA celebration in July. ■

HISTORY NOTE

Final push for the ADA took time, political process At the beginning of the George H. W. Bush presidential administration, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became the charge of disability lobbyists, including Patrisha Wright of the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, and Democratic lawmakers. Democratic Senators Tom Harkin of Iowa and Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts, working with Wright, rewrote a more conservative version of the ADA of 1988 than the version written by conservative Republicans on the National Council on the Handicapped. They narrowed the scope of the accommodations to be made so that the bill was more palatable to business and therefore more likely to become law. On May 9, 1989, the ADA was introduced in the Senate by Senators Harkin, Kennedy and Minnesota’s David Durenberger. Former Sen. Lowell P. Weicker provided testimony as a parent of a child with a disability. It was introduced in the House the same day.

On June 21, 1989, then-Attorney General Dick Thornburgh, the parent of a son with developmental disabilities, outlined the Bush administration’s position on the ADA. Bush as vice president had endorsed the original version of the ADA and expressed support for the rights of people with disabilities throughout his presidential campaign. However, it wasn’t until that time that his administration showed support for the ADA. Thornburgh articulated the

administration’s commitment to sign the bill into law, but also outlined concerns that the administration had. These concerns included the scope of the remedies allowed, the reach of the public accommodations provision and the potential financial impact on small businesses.

During the summer, Senate leadership and bill sponsors reached an agreement with Bush administration officials on major provisions. The president supported the legislation only after sponsors agreed to limit remedies for findings of discrimination largely to those available under the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The ADA continued the long process of hearings through Congressional committees. On September 7, 1989, the Senate voted overwhelmingly (76-8) in favor of the ADA. The vote took place after lengthy Senate floor debate that lasted late into the night with more than a dozen amendments added to the bill and several adopted before the Senate took floor action.

On May 17, 1990, the House began consideration of the ADA. It won approval five days later. A number of amendments to weaken various provisions of the bill were introduced during floor debate and defeated by wide margins. The vote on final passage of the bill was 403-20. The bill then went to conference committees and then back to both bodies for passage again.

Upon passage of the ADA in the Senate on July 13,

Volume 26, Number 6 • 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, Halle O'Falvey, Carrie Salberg, Jane McClure Distribution Cheryl Vander Linden, Walt Seibert and S. C. Distribution Mark Zangara 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; % The Capitol Ridge Inn Offices; 161 St. Anthony Ave; #910; St. Paul, MN 55103; 651-644-2133; Fax: 651-644-2136; email: access@accesspress.org www.accesspress.org

President George H.W. Bush signing the Americans with Disabilities Act into law.

File photo

1990, Harkin delivered a speech on the Senate floor in ASL. His speech is the first in ASL to be delivered from the Senate floor and can be viewed at. http:// tinyurl.com/ada-speech ■ 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. This month’s History Note is taken from the series Moments in Disability History, which is also on the council’s website.

June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6

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FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Council funding, waiting list reductions are gains

by Steve Larson

In addition to The 5% Campaign, the elimination of Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities (MA-EPD) premiums, and the reform of MA, The Arc Minnesota and its advocacy partners focused on five other bills this session to make positive changes in disability services and supports. Four of the five bills were included in the final health and human services omnibus bill (the overall spending and policy bill), which was approved by state legislators and signed by Gov. Mark Dayton.

Funding for the State Quality Council The State Quality Council was created in 2011. It is charged with ensuring that Minnesota’s disability services are the highest possible quality. The council promotes quality systems that are person-centered, quality-driven, outcome-based and effective in using public funds.

The council conducted its work for the past two years without funding. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) provided staff support. Sen. Kent Eken (DFL – Twin Valley) and Rep. Rod Hamilton (R – Mountain Lake) authored legislation to fund the council and its activities, requesting $3.1 million for the next biennium. The health and human services (HHS) omnibus bill included $1.173 million.

This is a good start in funding methods and systems to help ensure services meet the needs, dreams and desires of people with disabilities and their families.

Federal money will supplement the state’s allocation.

Reducing the waiting list A change in Minnesota statute should help the 5,000 Minnesotans who currently wait for home and community-based waivered services. These services benefit people with a wide range of disabilities, helping them be more included, participating members of their communities.

In an effort to prevent overspending on waivers, Minnesota law had previously contained disincentives for counties to spend money that was allocated

for those services. The statutory language caused counties to hold waiver funding in reserves to avoid state penalties. These reserves grew to an average of seven to 10 percent of a county’s waiver budget, totaling $200 million statewide.

Sen. John Hoffman (DFL – Champlain) and Rep. Roz Peterson (R – Lakeville) authored language, included in the HHS omnibus bill, which lowered the counties’ allowable reserves to three percent, not the current seven to 10 percent. This change should free up funding to help many Minnesotans currently on waiting lists for waivered services.

Lower parental fees Disability advocates made it a priority once again to reduce the fees that parents pay for services for children with disabilities. These efforts showed some success.

Sen. Jeff Hayden (DFL – Minneapolis) and Peterson authored bills to provide relief to families struggling to pay these fees; this relief was included in the HHS omnibus bill. The final language lowered fees across the board by 10 percent, effective July 1, 2015.

This decrease will make the fees more affordable for families to pay for MA services that keep their children at home and in the community. The fees have been so high that they prevented some parents from applying for crucial services that would meet their children’s needs.

ABLE Act funding approved The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act was signed into law by President Barak Obama on December 19, 2014. The ABLE Act will enable qualified individuals with disabilities to create taxadvantaged savings accounts for certain disability-related expenses, such as education and transportation.

If properly managed, funds in an ABLE account won’t jeopardize eligibility for governmental benefits like Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid.

Before the program can be offered to the public, federal and state governments must create new rules and procedures. Minnesota took its first step by approving

The 5% Campaign: It’s not over

by Amy Wartick

The 5% Campaign is a nonpartisan coalition that formed in 2014 to ask state policymakers for a 5% rate increase for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). These essential services include personal care assistance, independent living skills training, home-delivered meals, group homes, assisted living, and more. Supporters maintain that life in the community is the first and best option for people with disabilities, older Minnesotans, as well as their families, workers and our state as well.

The Minnesota Legislature and Gov. Mark Dayton authorized a full five percent rate increase in 2014.

Funding helped reduce employee turnover, improve care and allow people remain independent in their homes and active in their communities.

This session, the campaign sought a five percent rate increase for both 2015 and in 2016. Advocates maintained that even with the 2014 increase, rates continued to lag far behind the pace of inflation and caregivers remained underpaid for the challenging and critical work they do.

Committed grassroots advocates wrote letters, made calls, sent postcards, and showed up to the capitol by the thousands in support of The 5% Campaign during session. More than 1,000 people loudly rallied at ARRM/MOHR Day at the Capitol on March 10 and met with their legislators. Supporters held signs in front of House and Senate chambers on April 30.

They tweeted Gov. Mark Dayton, told their stories at town halls and at news conferences. “I love my work, but staying with this job has come with many sacrifices,” said Minneapolis caregiver Lynn Jensen. “I lost my home due to rising costs. After paying for rent, insurance and gas I am left with only $115 a week to spend on groceries and other expenses.”

In the end The 5% Campaign’s call for a rate increase this session went unanswered, though $90 million of funding was proposed by the Minnesota House. While the campaign wasn’t successful this year, the great work by advocates made a difference.

They increased awareness of the need for funding, and positioned HCBS for an increase in 2016. The amount of time spent, personal stories shared and dedication that direct support professionals, self-advocates, family members and others showed was nothing short of remarkable and inspiring.

Campaign leaders are developing strategies for 2016 as the job is not done yet. They are counting on supporters to lend their voices this summer, fall and into the next legislative session as they continue to fight for 90,000 dedicated caregivers and the people with disabilities and older adults they support. You can learn more and stay connected by visiting http:// bit.ly/5_percent, following The 5% Campaign on Twitter@5PercentMN, and by joining the campaign’s Facebook page. ■ Amy Wartick is the ARRM Communications Director and Chairperson of The 5% Communications Team.

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$105,000 for DHS to administer ABLE Act accounts. The process for finalizing the federal and state rules is expected to take at least until mid to late 2015.

Expanding employment through self-directed services Advocates also worked to change the Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS) program so people with disabilities have more opportunities for competitive employment.

About 3,400 Minnesotans with disabilities and their families on MA waiver programs benefit from CDCS. Their individualized budgets and greater flexibility let them spend funding so it best meets their needs.

Unfortunately, people with disabilities on CDCS who turn 21 years old don’t receive funding in their budgets for employment services.

Sen. Jim Carlson (DFL – Eagan) and Rep. Tara Mack (R – Apple Valley) authored legislation to change the method of calculating CDCS budgets to give people with disabilities the needed funding to secure competitive employment. This bill received approval in House and Senate committees, but wasn’t included in the HHS omnibus bill. Language was approved to extend a current program giving recent high school graduates a 20 percent increase in their CDCS budgets. ■ Steve Larson is Public Policy Director for The Arc MN.

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FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Rights clearly spelled out in new law

by Anne Henry

Important new rights for Home and CommunityBased Services (HCBS) waiver participants have been added to the DHS licensing statute, 245D in the DHS Policy bill, HF 1535 (Chapter 78). These changes include limiting temporary suspension to situations in which the person’s conduct poses an imminent risk of physical harm to themselves or others despite the use of positive support strategies; the person has new medical issues or the program has not been paid for services (often due to a Medical Assistance spend-down issue). Service termination is limited to the three reasons for suspension plus three additional circumstances, including a person whose welfare cannot be maintained by the facility, the program ceases to operate or the person’s eligibility for HCBS waiver services has been terminated by the lead agency. Both service suspension and termination have new detailed notice requirements, including specific efforts by the license holder to resolve the issues prior to suspension or termination.

In addition to license holder obligations, the com-

missioner of human services is required to assure that the county or tribal case manager for a person notified of residential services termination develop an action plan and proceed promptly to work to resolve these issues for the HCBS waiver participant within the 60-day notice period. New rights to appeal have been added to the DHS administrative appeal law for an individual who has been notified that their residential services will be terminated. The scope of the appeal is limited to whether the proposed service termination is allowed and the requirements have been met. If a participant facing termination of residential services of the new 245D provision requests a temporary stay while new services are developed, the hearing can also include an appeal of the case management services provided in order to arrange for new residential services. The commissioner may issue a temporary order staying the proposed demission while an appeal is pending or for a period of time needed to implement an order from the commissioner. The commissioner may extend a temporary stay of demission for up to 30 calendar days to allow completion of ar-

rangements for new residential services. Specific provisions on service suspension, termination and related appeal rights can be found in HF 1535, Article 6, Section 5 – 8 (Chapter 78), Chapter 78, Laws of MinneAnne Henry sota 2015.

Name Change for CADI Waiver The name of the home and community waiver for person otherwise qualified for nursing facility services, now called Community Alternatives for Disabled Individuals has been changed to “Community Access for Disability Inclusion” in the DHS Policy bill, HF 1535 The new name will have the same acronym, CADI. ■

Learn about changes to personal care program

by Anne Henry

Changes to what is now the Personal Care Assistance (PCA) Program will affect many Minnesotans with disabilities. The Department of Human Services (DHS) Policy bill, HF 1535 (Chapter 78), includes technical and important substantive changes to the Community First Services and Supports program (CFSS). CFSS is the new program which will replace PCA 90 days after federal approval is obtained. DHS has been working on a state plan amendment for CFSS service since 2013, with a mandated Implementation Council. Federal approval for CFSS is de-

layed until Minnesota’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver settings transition plan is approved by the federal agency, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). DHS expects CMS’ approval of both the HCBS waiver settings transition plan and CFSS within the next six months.

Changes to the CFSS statute, Minn. Stat. 256B.85, span nearly 40 pages and includes changes of new responsibilities and protections for participants. There are also new DHS obligations when a CFSS agency is sanctioned or closes. CFSS-related services changed by the legislature this year include consultation services, fiscal management services and worker training and development services.

Consultation services will be provided by Medical Assistance (MA) enrolled providers to assist participants in making choices about CFSS services overall and choices regarding self-directed tasks specifically.

Consultation services will assist in development of a person-centered service delivery plan aimed at achieving individualized quality service outcomes for the participant. Consultation services requirements include 16 specified duties plus “any other duties assigned by the Commissioner.” The consultation service provider must enter into a written agreement with the participant, provide orientation to CFSS services, assist the individual to access financial management services or agency-provided services and help develop the service delivery plan.

Financial management services will be provided by a separate qualified organization for participants who use the budget model. Seven specified services have been added to the financial management services section of the CFSS statute. Detailed participant responsibilities for those who use either the agency model or the budget model are described in the new law.

Participants in the budget model will be responsible for nine specific types of activities, including hiring

and supervision, communication with the financial management service provider about changes, developing a support worker training and development plan, verifying and maintaining evidence of support worker competency, providing periodic written performance reviews and evaluation of CFSS services.

Worker training and development services must be arranged by an agency provider or purchased by a participant employer under the budget model. The purpose of worker training and development services is to expand the knowledge and skills of a support worker. This is to ensure competency in services provided. Worker training and development services must be provided to a new support worker, except for a time limited substitute and are paid for outside of the participant’s service allotment or budget. The funding for worker training and development is the funding now used for qualified professionals under the current PCA program.

Other changes to the CFSS statute include written notice of recipient service rights and due process rights when services are to be changed or terminated, protection-related rights for participants using either an agency provider or a financial management services provider for the budget model. Also, new provisions add participant protections when agency or financial management services providers decide to terminate services to a participant. The new provisions also detail the responsibility of the commissioner when an agency is sanctioned or has payments withheld which could lead to service interruptions for participants. These changes were sought after PCA participants were left without any payment for their staff when a large agency declared bankruptcy. These and many others changes can be found in HF 1535 (Laws of 2015, Chapter 78, Article 6, Section 22). ■ Anne Henry is an attorney with the Minnesota Disability Law Center.

June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6

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FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Mental health crisis response sees historic support

by Benjamin Ashley-Wurtmann

One of the enduring challenges for disability movements is to ensure that we all get equitable access, not a solution that only works for some. Mental health communities have struggled for years to show that there is a better way than using the police and the emergency room to respond to mental health crisis. These approaches are inequitable and push people away from their community and toward institutional settings.

They are also costly. Law enforcement contact can quickly escalate and in-patient hospital care can be more than $1,000 per day. Often, hospitalization can lead to significant setbacks in recovery, leaving the person with more problems and less hope.

Mobile crisis is a cornerstone in addressing this need. A provider or team is dispatched to where an individual is. They then assess and de-escalate the situation to address immediate needs. Crisis stabilization services continue beyond the initial encounter, connecting the individual to community services, a key asset to recovery. However, some counties lack any mobile crisis resources and others keep limited hours. In Hennepin County, strong teams have been

Funding is a start

by Matthew Rodreick

I have a vivid imagination, so bear with me. The other day I was walking down the sidewalk and had this strong sense that the sidewalk was going to give way under my feet. I smiled at myself for thinking that it’s just my winter weight talking to my subconscious. Then I realized that for five years I’ve been feeling the weight of passing a state initiative to fund medical innovations for the treatment of paralysis.

But as I walked to my car, I smiled at myself again because it’s not a weight I’ve carried alone. I believe the sidewalks are safe.

I first met with Sen. Jeff Hayden (DFL – Minneapolis) five years ago this past April to ask if he would author a bill to fund spinal cord injury research directed toward curative therapies. Back then I was pretty green for a budding activist, translated as naively optimistic. I was convinced that everyone I came into contact with would see the indefensible logic of investing a little money into this critically underfunded area of medical research. Needless to say I didn’t stay green for long.

Five years later, we passed a bill that establishes a spinal cord injury/traumatic brain injury research grant program that will seed research projects working toward the functional improvement of these injuries. The $1 million allocation is quite a bit less than the $16 million that we asked for. But it‘s a starting point that will not only direct funds to critical research projects, and also give our community a voice in what projects reflect our priorities.

This is so very important because the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has reduced grants to spinal cord injury research from $94 million in 2013 to $81 million in 2015. That may seem like a lot of money to Jane Q. Public, but I would remind you that HIV/AIDS spending (which affects the same number of people as spinal cord injury) through the NIH will be $3 billion in 2015.

You may have noticed I wrote that “I met with Sen. Hayden” and that “we passed a bill.” And this brings me back to my vivid imagination and the would-be crumbling sidewalk under my feet. Yes, I brought an idea (that was not my own but passed on by other passionate advocates) to the legislature, but it was WE who passed it. I would not have gotten very far without the passion and commitment of the spinal cord injury community who began to make this cause their own: Rob and Billy, Thomas and Joe, Kelsey and Lynne, Luann and Joey, Jenni and Jay, Todd and many, many others who came to the capitol, testified, wrote emails and made calls.

Much can be accomplished when WE imagine it. ■ Matthew Rodreick is executive director of the Get Up Stand Up 2 Cure Paralysis Foundation. He became involved after his son Gabe was paralyzed.

developed, but are outmatched on a per capita basis.

In response, this legislative session Minnesota has pushed forward with $46 million in new funding for mental health, the biggest investment ever made. The bulk is going to filling in the gaps. Our slogan for the year was “We know what works, let’s build on it.” We wanted to reflect the consensus and data that shows these models are effective. Roll-out and consistency across Minnesota were the biggest remaining barriers. $8.57 million will go to expanding and improving those teams, as well as adding residential crisis beds throughout the state. By providing a safe place to stay while getting connected to rapid access psychiatry, this service boasts a diversion rate of about 95 percent for individuals who otherwise would have met hospital level of care.

Another key improvement was funding for protected transport under Medical Assistance. Instead of

putting people in handcuffs and a squad car, this would be an unmarked transportation option with a plain-clothes driver. Rural sheriffs testified this year about countless hours spent getting to open hospital beds. Local crisis beds and protected transport can help us turn the corner on this trend.

We all need different kinds of accommodations and care in order to fully participate in society. Dedicated mental health crisis response tells Minnesotans living with mental illnesses that they deserve the best chance possible to seek care on voluntary and constructive terms. We will keep pressing, but 2015 has been a defining year in bringing the promise of community mental health to light. ■ Benjamin Ashley-Wurtmann is a policy and outreach associate for the Mental Health Association of Minnesota. The association is part of the Mental Health Legislative Network.

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REGIONAL NEWS Fifth graders make a difference Five fifth grade boys at Franklin Elementary School in Mankato have been making a positive difference in the life of a schoolmate. The boys befriended James Willmert after the saw him being picked on. Willmert has a learning disability.

“Why pick on someone,” Jack Pemble begins to ask, as Jake Burgess finishes his question, “who has special needs?” The boys and their friends Gus Gartzke, Tyler Jones and Landon Kopischke befriended Willmert after seeing him picked upon. They eat lunch with him, include him at recess and help him with tasks including opening food bags and tying shoes.

“It really kind of makes you proud to be their teacher,” said Mallory Howk, who has spent the year with the five boys in her fifth grade class. Howk believes the school’s anti-bullying lessons must have struck a chord with the boys, but their kindness has gone beyond even her expectations.

“He used to not want to go out for recess or anything, it would be like a struggle,” said Margi Willmert, James’ mom. “And now he can barely eat his lunch to get outside to play with those guys.” The boys also helped their friend get a video game system and play station. And for the first time, Willmert had friends over to play, at his house. ■ (Source: KARE 11 News)

State takes action against Savers Minnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson has taken action against the international thrift store chain Savers. Swanson sued the chain May 22 in Hennepin County District Court. Swanson contends that Savers is misleading the public about the percentage of proceeds from donated items which actually go to charity.

Savers collects and sells items for charities including the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota and Disabled American Veterans. Three other charities, including groups serving people with disabilities, have cut their ties to Savers. Those groups pulled out in 2014 after Swanson released a report very critical of Savers and its partner charities.

Swanson contends that Savers has committed eight violations of charities law. At a news conference announcing the lawsuit, Swanson was joined by people who had made donations to Savers, thinking they had helped charities and people with disabilities. One woman donated an expensive power wheelchair, thinking it would go to a veteran. Others said they donated to trucks and bins labeled for the specific charitable groups.

Savers, which is based in Washington state, promotes itself as the nation’s largest thrift store chain, Company officials said they are changing their practices and taking steps to address issues raised previously by Swanson. ■ (Source: KSTP-TV, Star Tribune)

Skyway connection is open again

State takes control of two nursing homes

A downtown St. Paul skyway and elevator are open again at normal operating hours, after complaints were made about accessibility. The connection, which is owned by Metro Transit and is by the Green Line light rail station, had its hours shortened starting in early February.

The hours were shortened because downtown residents and business owners complained that there were problems with loitering and bad behavior. That drew protests from people with disabilities, who had to sometimes travel long distances to find ways to get in and out of the downtown skyway system. Many people with disabilities including downtown resident and recently retired Advocating Change Together leader Rick Cardenas challenged the shortened hours, as they had been among those working to get the elevator link built.

Cardenas recently contacted the Metropolitan Council, which oversees Metro Transit, to let them know how the shortened hours had caused inconvenience for him and others Metro Transit, for its part, has agreed to monitor the situation and look for other ways to make the skyway system safer. ■ (Source: Pioneer Press)

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has assumed control of two nursing homes, in Faribault and Owatonna. The action was taken to protect the well-being of nursing home residents.

The owners of the Faribault Care Center, which has 52 residents, and the Owatonna Care center, which has 36 residents, were unable to financially support the facilities. Property owner Omega Health Care Investors and operator Deseret Health Group met with state officials this spring. A court was asked to hand over control of the facilities.

MDH will make sure residents receive proper care, and that the employees keep their jobs and are paid.

State law allows the facilities to be under state receivership for up to 18 months. The state takes over and assumes control of finances until a new facility owner can be found, or the residents are relocated. MDH Commissioner Edward Ehlinger described the step as a “last resort.” He assured family members that home residents will be well taken care of while the situation is resolved. ■ (Source: Minnesota Department of Health)

Mansion-turned-hotel approved A St. Paul Summit Avenue mansion’s next incarnation as a boutique hotel will finally move ahead this spring after months of uncertainty over exterior changes. Developer John Rupp won St. Paul Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) approval April 23 for building exterior changes to 344 Summit Ave., the Watson P. Davidson House. The house, built between 1915 and 1921, is in the Historic Hill District.

The commission split on approving the plans and needed building permit, with some commissioners favoring what Rupp brought forward and others arguing that a staff recommended-design be followed instead. One of the issues of debate was disability access and how that should be handled. Rupp, who has a family member who uses a wheelchair, wanted a ramp in front. He objected to suggestions that a rear entrance or temporary ramp be used.

The mansion has doors on three sides but those are either narrow or have obstacles such as steps or lack of interior space to turn a wheelchair around in.

At issue before the HPC was how exterior changes should be made. The HPC asked Rupp to obtain a written evaluation by a preservation architect, showing that all possible routes for access have been explored. The building needs considerable work before it can become a hotel. An opening date hasn’t been set. The hotel will host guests for up to a year. It will not host events or have food service facilities. Food service and other services will be provided by the nearby University Club, which Rupp also owns and operates. ■ (Source: Villager Newspaper)

Lawsuits filed over access Businesses in the Minnesota community of Marshall have claimed businesses don’t provide access to persons with disabilities. Nine lawsuits have been filed so far by the Disability Support Alliance, a nonprofit group formed last summer, including one against the only bowling alley in town. The owner said he will soon close rather than pay the DSA’s $5,500 settlement offer or make the $20,000 of changes needed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities (ADA).

Business owners now are working with the local Chamber of Commerce and the Minnesota State Council on Disability. They prepared an access audit for local businesses, allowing them to develop a plan to fix ADA issues and potentially to ward off litigation. The plan has won the attention of the state Department of Human Rights, which hopes it could be used in other communities hit by serial litigation.

The alliance works with attorney Paul Hansmeier, who has filed nearly 60 ADA suits in Minnesota. Disability advocates contend that the access lawsuits are more about winning cash settlements than making changes that would add ramps, widen aisles and allow wheelchair access.

“If someone’s going to get mad for not following the law, I don’t know how to respond to it,” Hansmeier said to the Star Tribune.

Hansmeier has been sanctioned across the country for his involvement in a separate series of lawsuits.

One case involved suing 16,000 men, accusing them of illegally downloading copyrighted porn. The suits threatened to publicly name the men unless they settled, a tactic that netted “a little less than” $15 million, according to published reports Hansmeier registered the Disability Support Alliance in Minnesota in July 2014 and listed himself as the nonprofit’s agent. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

BDC Management Co. is now accepting applications for our accessible waiting lists at the following affordable communities Albright Townhomes Buffalo Court Apartments Elliot Park Apartments Evergreen Apartments Franklin Lane Apartments Hanover Townhomes Lincoln Place Apartments Olson Towne Homes Prairie Meadows Slater Square Apartments Talmage Green Trinity Apartments Unity Place Vadnais Highlands Willow Apartments Woodland Court Apartments

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June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6

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PEOPLE & PLACES Advocacy skills gained through program Anyone who has ever wanted to be a better advocate for a family member or learn more effective self-advocacy skills, can sign up for the 2015-2016 Partners in Policymaking Program. The nine-month leadership training program for people with disabilities and parents of children with developmental disabilities is accepting applications until July 10. Now offered in almost every state and many foreign countries, Partners in Policymaking was created by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities in 1987.

“Graduates report that they gained a greater understanding of disability law and policies and increased their self confidence in advocating for their needs,” said Colleen Wieck, executive director of the council. “Many have become leaders in their own communities as they speak up for people with disabilities.”

Sarah Carlson Wallrath and her family, left, and Heather Stillwell, far right, are beneficiaries The 2014-2015 graduates of Partners in Policymaking urge others to consider enrolling in the program. “Being so new to the world of disabilities, it was invalu- of the Partners in Policymaking Program. Council leader Dan Reed presented awards.

Photos courtesy of Partners in Policymaking able to meet the other parents and self-advocates,” said Minnetonka resident Sarah Carlson-Wallrath. She has a preschooler with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

“Partners introduced me to a group of people who have had similar experi“The program allowed me to learn alongside adults with disabilities. I learned ences,” said Heather Stillwell of Two Harbors. Her son Dane was born premathat there is more than one path to success and I have a vision now that my son turely with cerebral and neuro-sensory hearing loss. He was later identified with can be a capable, contributing, independent and happy adult with the right supASD. “I wish I had done this when Dane was younger since there is so much to ports in place,” Carlson-Wallrath said. learn about the laws and community services.” She recommends this program to Apple Valley resident Tom Kuhl has cerebral palsy and several learning disother parents to create partnerships in caring for children and to raise expectations abilities. Kuhl liked that the program design emphasizes the importance of bondfor a child’s future. ing with class members.

The connection with other parents was a plus for St. Cloud area resident Kelly “It changes you for the better. It improved my mood in ways that medication Korpela. She has two sons with ASD. “Partners has been such an eye-opener,” could not,” said Kuhl. He recommends this program to others with disabilities to said Korpela. The classmates realize what I am going through since they are going “anyone who is feeling overwhelmed with getting the services they need.” through the same thing. A whole weight is lifted off my shoulders when I come.”

Kuhl also learned the importance of contacting the right people in the chain of Jordan resident Jean Kes has a son with a genetic disorder. “Partners has given command to get help in solving problems. The group also met with legislators and me so much information,” said Kes. “The history was amazing and I learned how testified at a legislative hearing. the IEP (Individualized Education Plan) process works.” She recommends this “The program has confirmed a lot of what I already knew,” said Maple Grove program to other parents to learn “to be a stronger voice for their children and resident Jennifer Ebeling, who has two sons with ASD. “I have gotten a lot of know they can make a difference if they speak up.” validation.” Ebeling recommends the program to help parents to be better advoLimited to 40 participants, all of whom must be Minnesota residents, class cates for their children as they transition out of high school and into a work setmembers are selected by a panel of Partners graduates and council representating. She successfully guided her oldest son to a job at Lunds and Byerly’s.

Partners in Policymaking - p. 10

Mary T. Inc. wins ethics award Mary T. Inc. was one of about the mission, about the three Minnesota companies culture that we have. I behonored May 13 on Busilieve it is important that all ness Ethics Awareness Day of us set a culture of colin Minnesota. The Coon laboration and cooperation Rapids company was seenabling our employees to lected as the recipient for act in an ethical way. For the large company category me personally, it’s what my (500-plus employees) ethics 96-year-old mother might award. say about it,” she said.

Mary T. Inc. is family Each award recipient reowned and founded on a ceived a crystal award along tradition of care. Its staff with a congratulatory letter has been providing service from Gov. Mark Dayton. to senior communities and Dayton declared WednesRepresentatives of Mary T. Inc. proudly accepted a business ethics award. persons with disabilities day, May 13, 2015 Business Courtesy photo since 1976, and continues to Ethics Awareness Day in offer this personal care through home health and hospice care, rental and senior the state of Minnesota. housing, supported and independent living services, supported apartments and perThe ethics award program, was founded by the Society of Financial Service sonal and home services.

Professionals – Twin Cities Chapter and the Center for Ethical Business Cultures Dr. Mary Tjosvold, CEO and Founder of Mary T. Inc., accepted the award. at the University of St. Thomas, Opus College of Business. Joining these two or“Ethics is really about how you treat people. When you look at the Mary T. Inc. ganizations as a sponsor is the National Association of Insurance and Financial organization, it is how we treat people every single day. It’s about the values, Advisors (NAIFA) – Minnesota. ■

Diamond Hill Townhomes Diamond Hill Townhomes is a great property located near the Minneapolis International Airport. We have spacious two and three bedroom townhomes that are HUD subsidized and rent is 30% of the total household’s adjusted gross income.

Our Three Bedroom waiting list is closed. We are only accepting applications for our Two Bedroom accessible units.

We are always accepting applications for our large number of mobility impaired accessible units. Please contact us for more information.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Please call (612) 726-9341.

Pg 8 June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6

PEOPLE & PLACES

Arc Changemakers honored for making a difference

Six individuals and families who have made a difference for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities were given Changemaker Awards by The Arc Greater Twin Cities. The awards were presented at The Arc’s Volunteer Celebration and Annual Meeting May 1 at the Hilton Minneapolis/Bloomington.

Kim Keprios, CEO of The Arc Greater Twin Cities, thanked the award winners for their efforts on behalf of others, noting the variety of activities the honorees are involved in.

The Changing Attitudes award recognizes those who positively change public perceptions of people with disabilities. Recipients are Marian Ahmed, Savage and Erich Hoffmann, Rosemount.

Ahmed is changing attitudes in the Somali community, where intellectual and developmental disabilities are often stigmatized. Ahmed, the mother of two young sons with autism, had the courage to have her sons diagnosed at an early age and get therapies that are helping them overcome their challenges. Sharing her story will encourage other Somali families to get help for their Marion Ahmed own children.

Hoffmann, 19, has been making a positive impact on people’s attitudes about disability throughout his life. His mother, Gail, is a past president of The Arc. His many activities include speaking at the Tapemark Charity Pro-Am Golf Tournament, helping keep the tournament’s cause at the forefront. He has participated in many of The Arc’s public policy activities, including

Erich Hoffman, front, and his parents

a legislative home visit that he co-hosted with his parents in 2014. He also interned at The Arc Greater Twin Cities and Arc’s Value Village in summer 2014.

The Changing Policies award recognizes persons whose efforts have resulted in systems and policy changes that benefit individuals with disabilities and their families. Recipients are Jeff and Nancy Beyer, Coon Rapids and John Hetterick, Plymouth.

The Beyers have six children, including two adopted adult children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). They have been very active in educating policymakers about issues families face when a member has FASD and advocating for legislation proposed by The Arc and the FASD advocacy group MOFAS, especially legislation aimed at preventing FASD. They hosted two legislative home visits for The Arc Greater Twin Cities and work to provide online connections for families.

Hetterick is a board member and long-time volunteer with The Arc Greater Twin Cities who is a passionate advocate in the public policy arena. He was a key player in the passage of the ABLE Act, one of the most significant pieces of disability legislation of 2014. While serving as a Joseph P. Kennedy Fellow in Washington, D.C., in 2004, Hetterick drafted a concept paper on cloning the 529 education investment account for families of people with disabilities, who often struggle with extraordinary expenses. The concept gained momentum when he met the chairperson for the President’s Council on People with Intellectual Disabilities.

The Changing Lives award recognizes long-term or intensive efforts that positively affect the lives of people with disabilities. Recipients are Kyla Sisson, MinPeople & Places - p. 9

June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6

Pg 9

continued from p. 8

PEOPLE & PLACES neapolis and Joe Thomas and Alana Lucio Thomas, West St. Paul.

Sisson became an intern at The Arc Greater Twin Cities in 2014. She was instrumental in supporting and enhancing The Arc’s Abuse Prevention Initiative and helped revamp the agency’s Guy Talk/Girl Talk sessions about healthy relationships for teens and adults with disabilities. She helped self-advocates develop their leadership abilities by involving them in presentations and developed the children’s curriculum for a new program focused on friendships, bullying and safety in the community.

Joe Thomas and Alana Lucio Thomas have a daughter with developmental disabilities and significant medical needs caused by chromosomal abnormalities, and they have taken extraordinary steps to support other families who have children with similar

Joe and Alana Lucio Thomas and daughter

Nancy and Jeff Byers Photos courtesy of The Arc Greater Twin Cities

diagnosis as their daughter. They organized a fundraiser for an annual event at the Genetics Clinic of Children’s Hospital where families can ask ques-

tions, learn about services and research and connect with others for personal support. ■

Pg 10 June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6

PEOPLE & PLACES ARRM holds annual conference ARRM’s 2015 Annual Conference: Shifting Gears provided the tools, knowledge, and personal connections for persons to overcome the daily grind and stay nimble during this time of change. More than 1,100 individuals attended the May 13-14 conference at the DoubleTree Hotel in Bloomington. Attendees included disability provider leaders and staff, direct support professionals, nurses, government employees, local business leaders and individuals from related industries.

Those who attended were able to attend a number of useful break-out sessions, speeches and an awards event. Opening keynote speaker Laura Goodrich spoke about how people unconsciously focus on negative thoughts because of fear and past experiences, but can rewire their brains by focusing on positive outcomes. “We get more of whatever we focus on,” she said. “Change requires action, and getting to know your own natural reaction to change.”

ARRM CEO Bruce Nelson, left, honored the ARRM Cares Award winners. Left to right are Lisa Buckentin - Dungarvin Minnesota, Amy Heigel-Opportunity Partners, Jessica Klimesh-REM South Central Services, Tarren Davis-Volunteers of America Minnesota, Steve Pistukla-MBW Company, David Gaarder-Opportunity Partners and ARRM Board President Darlene Scott - The Phoenix Residences.

Photo courtesy of ARRM

At the 2015 ARRM Cares Awards a packed ballroom of attendees honored 111 outstanding direct support professional nominees and six award winners.

Winners are Lisa Buckentin-Dungarvin Minnesota,

Amy Heigel-Opportunity Partners, Jessica KlimeshREM South Central Services, Tarren Davis-Volunteers of America Minnesota, Steve Pistukla-MBW Company and David Gaarder-Opportunity Partners. ■

Partners in Policymaking - from p. 7

Jennifer Ebling and her family appreciated the training.

tives. The first session for the 2015-2016 program year is scheduled for the weekend of September 2526. Presenters include local experts and nationally

recognized leaders in school inclusion, community organizing, governmental processes, and disability issues. A federal grant covers the program, so it is free to participants. Child care, respite allowance, mileage, meals and overnight accommodations are also covered. Participants must attend all meetings and complete homework assignments between sessions.

“This program is based on the belief that systems change is best brought about through the efforts of those most affected by them, and we seek to arm these individuals with the tools needed to be successful in the public policy arena,” said Wieck.

For further information or to receive an application form, interested individuals can go to the web page www.mngts.org/partnersinpolicymaking Or contact Dolly Parker of GTS Educational Events at dparker@mngts.org ■

Jean Kes and her family were among those honored.

Photos courtesy of Partners in Policymaking

——— In Memoriam ——— Vinland leader passes away Duane Reynolds, associate director of Vinland Center, passed away suddenly May 3. He was 68 and lived in New Hope.

Reynolds worked in the chemical health field for more than 40 years, and held Minnesota’s first chemical health license. Reynolds worked at Vinland for 19 years, and was instrumental in developing and expanding its chemical health and mental health programs. He was heavily involved with its two supportive homes in New Hope. Reynolds was a mentor and friend to many people on Vinland’s staff.

Appointed to the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health by Gov. Mark Dayton, Reynolds also served on the PreferredOne Board. He was involved for several years in the Minnesota State Horticultural Society.

Reynolds is survived by his wife, two daughters and a grandson. Services have been held.

Eilertsen helped start group homes

The Rev. Edwin J. Eilertsen, whose ministry spanned several Minnesota churches and included a focus on people in need, died May 15. He was 90 years old.

The New York City native was called to the ministry while attending the University of Minnesota. After earning a master’s of divinity from Berkeley Divinity School at Yale University, he was ordained by the Episcopal Diocese of Minnesota in 1952.

He served several Minnesota churches, with his longest tenure at St. Martin’s by the Lake Episcopal Church in Minnetonka Beach. He was known for working to make churches welcome to all. One of his many accomplishments was to help start a network of group homes for people with developmental disabilities, to bring citizens out of institutions and into the community.

Eilertson is survived by his wife, three daughters and three grandchildren. Services have been held.

Price worked on accessibility

Cherie Lovelace Price, whose work on civil rights issues included a focus on disability, died May 14 in her sleep at home in Minneapolis. She was 83.

Price was from a prominent Twin Cities African-American family. She graduated from South High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in human services in 1979 at Metro State University. For more than a decade, Price worked at the Minneapolis Society for the Blind, where she helped people with disabilities navigate new technologies as they sought to live independently. She then spent 18 years at the former Control Data Company, where she worked with injured workers and workers with disabilities.

Price was active at Sabathani Community Center and St. James AME Church, her home congregation. Family members recalled that when her brother passed away, friends in wheelchairs couldn’t enter the church. Price led efforts to make the church accessible.

Price is survived by several family members. Services have been held. ■

June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6 Pg 11 YMCA. FFI: www.arcgreatertwin cities.org, debreisner@arc greatertwincities.org

UPCOMING EVENTS Advocacy Plan for training conference As part of the ongoing commemoration of the 25th anniversary of passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Minnesota State Council on Disability hosts an ADA Celebration/Training Conference Wed, Oct. 28 at Mpls Convention Center. The conference focuses on employment, technology, advocacy and community living and includes a career fair for people with disabilities, in partnership with the Minnesota Business Leadership Network. It will also feature speakers and informative breakout sessions. The noon hour keynote program will be broadcast live statewide on tpt with participation from communities across Minnesota. The council is examining how employment has been impacted by the ADA as part of an overall effort to describe its role in Minnesota. Take a short survey on employment: http://tinyurl. com/ADA25employmentMN FFI: 651-361-7803, www.disability.state.mn.us/ada/ National symposium planned PACER Center hosts the 10th Annual National Symposium on children and young adults with mental health and learning disabilities 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tue, Aug. 4, Mpls. Convention Center. Cost is $30 and includes lunch. Hear nationally known experts and take advantage of this learning opportunity for general education teachers, administrators and parents interested in understanding more about mental health and learning disabilities in children and young adults. FFI: 952-838-9000. 1-800-537-2237. (toll free), www.PACER.org Olmstead work continues The Olmstead Plan Subcabinet continues to revise and reshape the goals in Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan. Comments are accepted at any time. Those working on plan revisions would like comments on the current plan version by Fri, June 19.

The plan may be seen at http:// tinyurl.com/Olmstead-comments Comment online at mn.gov/ Olmstead Click “Participate” and follow instructions for an online form. Emails can be sent to MNOlmsteadPlan@state.mn.us or mail to Olmstead Implementation Office, 400 Sibley Street, Suite 255 St. Paul, MN 55101.

FFI: 651-296-8081 Learn about history Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities launched a new free webinar, The Fight for Civil Rights for People with Disabilities. A compilation of the Moments in Disability History, the one-hour presentation is an accounting of the key events and influential leaders who pursued the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Here also are the many personal stories of discrimination, and reflections on the lives of individuals with disabilities who experienced only isolation and segregation but who also envisioned an inclusive society that would recognize them as fully capable and productive first class citizens.

FFI: http://tinyurl.com/DDHistory

Save date: Autism in Business On Thu, Oct. 22, the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) will bring together Minnesota’s top corporate leaders, business professionals, state agencies and autism advocates in St. Paul for Autism in Business, a forum focused on providing positive strategies for employing and retaining individuals with autism. It will feature a keynote presentation, leadership luncheon and breakout sessions on topics including how to achieve diversity hiring goals, theory of mind in the workplace, a moderated panel of people with autism discussing their employment experiences, successful employment stories from business managers and leaders, and tactics for companies wishing to employ individuals with autism. FFI: www.ausm.org Save the date: The Arc MN The Arc Minnesota reminds everyone to save the date for the annual conference, set for Sat, Oct. 24 at Shoreview Community Center, Shoreview.

Theme is A Working Life and keynote speaker is Nancy BrooksLane, senior consultant, Center for Social Capital. Watch for details. FFI: www.thearcmn.org

Youth and families Youth skills camp offered Islands of Brilliance and the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) offer a unique social skills camp to Minnesota youth with autism, ages 10-18. The Islands of Brilliance program pairs students with professional design volunteers to help launch youth with autism into the world of technology and design. Students do creative projects and develop conversation, friendship, and confidence-building skills.

Sessions are Aug. 3-7. Cost is $325 per session and the camp is held in Mpls. It is one of many camps and activities this summer. FFI: www.ausm.org Healthy Relationship Project The Healthy Relationship Project invites west metro families of children who have or are suspected of having Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder to have fun, connect and learn about safe social connections at a three-part event for the entire family. This free event will be at the Northwest YMCA, 7601 42nd Ave. N., New Hope. It will be offered Sat, June 27. Children ages 2 - 7 will participate in structured play through the Special Olympics Young Athletes program. Youth ages 8 - 15 will engage in activities while learning about friendships, safety and bullying. While kids are at play, parents will connect with an experienced parent to share resources, tools and tips for keeping their child safe in the community. Each session will cover different topics. Families are encouraged to attend all sessions, but it is not required. Preregistration required. The Healthy Relationship Project is a collaboration of The Arc Greater Twin Cities, the Minnesota Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, the North American Council on Adoptable Children, Special Olympics Minnesota and the

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 the newsletter of statewide workshops that allows participants to pick and choose sessions catered to their needs. Using the iPad to enhance summer learning is 67:30 p.m. Mon, June 15 at PACER Center. Learn how to use the iPad and apps to keep children in grades 3 to 7 engaged and learning throughout the summer. Discover strategies to use the iPad as a fun summer learning tool, as well as apps to help students keep skills fresh. FFI: PACER at 952-838-9000. In Greater Minnesota, call 800-537-2237 (toll free), www.PACER.org

Info/Assistance Get MNsure information The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Minnesota hosts a free information session on MNsure 9:30-11:30 a.m. Thu, June 18 at Dakota County Northern Services Center, 1 West Mendota Road, Room 260, West St. Paul. Learn about health insurance options, value of coverage, options under MNSure, MA expansion, changes to Minnesota Care and the benefits to people living with mental illnesses. FFI: 651-645-2948 Hope for Recovery Workshop NAMI Minnesota hosts a free, six-hour interactive workshop that provides families and individuals with information on mental illnesses, practical coping strategies, and hope for recovery, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat, June 20 at Regions Hospital, North Oaks

Room, 640 Jackson St., St. Paul.

FFI: 651-645-2948, namihelps.org 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 those with low vision; card games, craft classes, book clubs, walking groups, dinners out, special outings and technology classes are among the offerings. Participants need to RVSP to participate. FFI: RSVP hotline 612-843-3439; activity phone 612-253-5155, www.visionlossresources.org MCIL offers classes/activities The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) offers many life skills classes as well as fun outings and activities for people with disabilities.

MCIL’s location is at 530 N. Robert Street, St Paul and most activities are there or start there.

Classes and events are listed on the website, www.mcil-mn. org Click on “Classes Groups and Sessions” for updated information or to print their calendar.

Please give two weeks’ notice if alternative format or other accommodations are needed. Events are free, accessible and mostly scent-free. FFI: 651-603-2030 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. Check the web site for upcoming groups.

Groups meet at the AuSM offices at 2380 Wycliff St. FFI: 651-6471083 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 of Minnesota offers more than 300 free educational classes statewide each year, along with help in navigating the mental health system. NAMI also has more than 60 free support groups living with a mental illness and their families. In the Twin Cities NAMI has about two dozen family support groups, more than 20 support groups for people living with a mental illness, anxiety support groups, groups for veterans and other groups. Led by trained facilitators, groups provide help and support. FFI: 651-645-2948. A full calendar of all events is offered online.

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 A family support group meets in St. Paul on the second Wednesday of each month at 6-7:30 p.m., at Goodwill-Easter Seals, at the Fairview location in room 123.

FFI: Sonja, 651-357-2077. A family support group meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, from 7:00-8:30 p.m., at Canvas Health, 7066 Stillwater Blvd., Oakdale. FFI: Dan, 651-341-8918. ■

Pg 12 June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6 Interactive puppet workshops

ACCESSIBLE FUN Save the date for ADA party The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark in civil rights legislation, turns 25 years old Sun, July 26. The Minnesota State Council on Disability (MSCOD) and other groups host a free 25th Anniversary of the ADA Celebration and Family Day noon-4 p.m.

Sun, July 26 at the Minnesota History Center, 345 Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. A portion of Twin Cities Public Television’s (tpt) upcoming documentary, The ADA at 25: Disability Rights in MN, will be premiered. Sam Jasmine of KFAI radio host Sam Jasmine, of Disabled and Proud – It’s Not an Oxymoron, will emcee the proclamation/presentation portion between 2-2:30 p.m. Live entertainment includes the bands Treading North and Workin’ Dogs, vocalists Paul Mabon and Ted Brown, a dance and vocal ensemble from BOLD Choice Theatre in Duluth, Leslye Orr and Jeff Smith – the world’s only blind magician, interactive arts activities, painting with Zot Artz, refreshments, food for purchase and a free parking and shuttle service are planned, reasonable accommodations will be provided. There is still time to become a partner organization. FFI: Andrew Mosca, 651-361-7803, andrew.mosca@state.mn.us, www.disability.state.mn.us/ada/our-partners

Opportunities for artists VSA Minnesota offers two opportunities for artists, in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Chautauqua at the Cowles Center for Dance and Performing Arts in Minneapolis will be a two-day gathering for Minnesota arts, disability, and public administrators and artists/arts attendees. VSA Minnesota will host an exhibition as well as live performances Sept. 25-26. Performing artists of all types are urged to apply. The event also offers exhibition opportunities for artists who create two-dimensional, artwork that is of high artistic quality, demonstrating originality, imagination, skillful use of materials, and quality of craft.

Artists of all abilities thrive thanks in large part due to opportunities through the ADA. Chautauqua is an Iroquois word, meaning, ‘two moccasins tied together.’ The term originated in 1874 in Chautauqua, New York, which lends its name to the format. It refers to an adult education movement featuring lectures, play, and musical performances; the word is also used for any single organization pursuing this activity.

For artists, please make submissions in jpegs and email to exhibitions@vsamn.org Alternative formats and accommodations, Braille and large print formats are available upon request. For direct assistance, please contact Halle O’Falvey, Exhibition Coordinator, 612-332-3888 or email exhibitions@vsamn.org She is also the contact for performing artists. Deadline is 11:59 p.m. Fri, July 31.

Children’s Theatre Company and the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) host a series of interactive family workshops modeling art-based strategies. Early Childhood and Autism: Expression through Storytelling, Puppetry, Movement and Music are designed for parents and/or caregivers with a child or children ages 3-5 with autism spectrum disorder and their siblings. Each workshop will explore theater activities that facilitate self-expression, creativity and imagination-play.

Workshops will include a unique lesson to support the social and imaginative development of each child and his or her family. As sessions will focus on different methods of expression, families have the option to register for single sessions or to sign up for all four. Each registered family will receive one complimentary child’s ticket to an upcoming sensory-friendly performance at Children’s Theatre Company. Workshops are at CTC, 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. Per-workshop cost $25 AuSM member/CTC season ticket-holders or $50 for nonmembers. Puppetry is 2-4 p.m. Sun, July 19, creative movement is Sun, Sept. 20 and music and sound is 2-4 p.m.

Sun, Nov. 8. Preregistration required. FFI: www.ausm.org

AuSM tournament set The Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) will host its 20th annual AuSM Golf Classic at the Troy Burne Golf Club in Hudson, Wis. Mon, Aug. 3. In addition to networking with professionals from the Twin Cities and beyond, registrants will enjoy a round of golf on the premier course, complimentary cart, lunch, awards banquet, silent auction and contests to win exciting prizes.

All proceeds from the AuSM Golf Classic will support programs and services for those affected by autism in Minnesota. FFI: www.ausm.org

ReelAbilities ReelAbilities is dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories and artistic expressions of people with different abilities. The Mpls-St. Paul festival presents 11 award-winning films and 5 film shorts, includes an acting workshop and receptions.

The Mpls-St. Paul film festival is June 11-14 at locations in Mpls, St. Paul, New Hope and St. Louis Park. All venues are wheelchair accessible, with assistive listening devices available. All films are captioned or subtitled. All films will have a pre-film ASL introduction and a postfilm “talk back.” Select films are audio-described. Tickets for a single movie are $10; packages available include all-access movie pass $25, VIP super ticket (full festival package) $150, Taste of Art closing night fundraiser $80, Opening Night event $45. FFI: 952-9251404, danreed@partnership resources.org, www.Minneapolis.ReelAbilities.org

From Darkness Nimbus Theatre Company presents the story of artists and thinking in the abstract expressionism movement, at Nimbus Theatre, 1517 Central Ave. NE, Mpls. AD show is 3 p.m. Sun, June 14. Tickets reduced to $8 (reg. $15 Fri.-Sat., $10 Thurs., Sun., 18 opening night).

FFI: 612-548-1380, www.nimbustheatre.com

La Rondine Skylark Opera presents the story of Magda, who flees her luxurious life as the mistress of a wealthy banker for the hope of true love, at E.M. Pearson Theatre, Concordia University, 312 N. Hamline Ave., St. Paul. Captioning is 7:30 p.m. Wed, June 17. Tickets $22 student, $29 super saver, $45 premium, $39 senior, $78 ticket to both productions. FFI: 612-343-3390, www.ticketworks.com

Amadeus Paradise Community Theater presents a highly fictionalized account of the lives of composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri, at Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave. N., Faribault. ASL show is 7:30 p.m. Thu, June 18. AD show date has not been announced. Tickets $15, members $14, age 12 and under $10; plus $1.75 per ticket processing fee.

FFI: 507-332-7372; www.paradisecenterforthearts.org/

Popular: A Broadway Cabaret Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus celebrates the Pride Festival at Ted Mann Concert Hall, 2128 4th St. S., Mpls.

ASL show is 8 p.m. Sat, June 20. Large-print and Braille programs available on request. Tickets reduced to halfprice for ASL patrons (regular $25-48, includes all fees).

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ProAct swings to Southview

The ProAct Golf Classic is making its move in 2015, inviting team golfers to West St. Paul’s Southview Country Club Mon, Aug. 17. Cost is $150 per golfer, including lunch and dinner, a golf cart, clubhouse and practice facilities use. A portion of the tournament golf cost is tax-deductible. Price for dinner alone is $35.The foursome scramble start tournament features skill contests, team prizes and group photos. A live auction, raffle and gourmet dinner follow the game.

FFI: Sheena Henry, 651-289-3149; shenry@proactinc.org, proactinc.org ■ FFI: 612-624-2345, www.tcgmc.org or www.tickets.umn.edu/Online/

Spectrum Artworks: Impossible Things: Artists Exploring Imagination Artists from Spectrum ArtWorks, a program of local non-profit RESOURCE, present an exhibition inspired

by Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking Glass. Participating artists are Cecile Bellamy, cynTHIA, Julia C. Spencer, Peter F. Hinze, James E. Sjolin, Dunji Diego, Wallace R. White, Ruth Lais, Ashley Adams, Faye Buffington-Howell, Kandace Krause, Samuel L., Audrey Bernard, Jude Mostek and Christi Furnas. At the Nicollet Café, 1931 Nicollet Ave. (at Franklin Ave.), Mpls. through July 13. Free. FFI: 612-752-8282, www.artworksatspectrum.org/

You Can’t Take It With You Jungle Theater presents Kaufman and Hart’s classic comedy, at Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls.

AD show is 7:30 p.m. Thu, July 2. Assistive listening devices available. Contact the theatre about a possible ASL-interpreted show. Tickets reduced to $14 (regular $28-48). FFI: 612-822-7063; www.jungletheater.com

Choir Boy Guthrie Theater presents the story of Pharus and his days at the Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys, at Guthrie Theater, Dowling Studio, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls.

AD/ASL/OC show is 7:30 p.m. Fri, July 3. Tickets reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for Captioning (regular $34-85). FFI: 612-377-2224, www.guthrietheater.org/ visit/access_services.

ZagZum Art Exhibition & Sale This art exhibition and sale features visual artists who live with mental and physical disabilities. Call for Art begins June 11. At Mpls Convention Center, The Seasons on 2nd Level, 1301 2nd Ave. S. ASL/AD offered 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sat, July 11, Free. Reserve Admission at Eventbrite. FFI: 612-930-4230. www.zagzum.org

Grease Lyric Arts Company of Anoka brings a high school romance to the Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, 420 E. Main Street, Anoka. ASL show is 2 p.m. Sun, July 12. Tickets $16-26; $5 discount for ASL seats; phone: 763-422-1838; email: boxoffice@lyricarts.org Seats for ASL patrons are held in reserve until two weeks prior to the show, then released to the general public. When ordering tickets, please indicate the need for seating in this section; if there are no reservations a week before the show, the interpretation will be canceled. For ages 13 and older.

FFI: www.lyricarts.org

More events information VSA Minnesota is at http://vsamn.org The website has a large calendar at in the upper right hand corner of its home page. For information on galleries and theater performances around the state join the Access to Performing Arts email list ataccess@vsamn.org or call VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or statewide 800-801-3883 (voice/TTY). To hear a weekly listing of accessible performances, call 612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883.

Another web events’ listing is http://c2net.org (c2: caption coalition, inc.), which does most of the captioned shows across the country. Facebook is another way to connect with performances. Sign up to connect with Audio Description Across Minnesota (http:// tinyurl.com/d34dzo2). Connect with ASL Interpreted and Captioned Performances across Minnesota on Facebook http://tinyurl.com/FBcaption ■

June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6 Pg 13

Medical Assistance measures make gains

by Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities

Significant progress was made on two key Medical Assistance (MA) Reform issues this past legislative session that will benefit about 20,000 adults and seniors with disabilities in Minnesota. Despite a difference of more than $1 billion between the House and Senate Health and Human Services budget proposals, the final budget that was sent to Gov. Mark Dayton includes $8.2 million in new MA funding. Of that amount $4.8 million funded a full repeal of the Medical Assistance for Employed Persons with Disabilities (MA-EPD) premium increase through legislation authored by Rep. Tony Albright (R - Prior Lake) and Sen. Chris Eaton (DFL - Brooklyn Center).

Additional funding, championed by Rep. Nick Zerwas (R - Elk River) and Sen. John Hoffman (DFL Champlain), will raise the MA excess income standard (spend-down) from 75 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline (FPG) to 80 percent on July 1, 2016.

MA-EPD – full repeal of the premium increase MA-EPD is a work incentive program designed to allow persons with disabilities who are able to work to benefit from their earned income by paying a monthly premium for MA rather than having to spend-down their income far below the poverty level.

The premium increase was part of budget deficit resolution in 2011 but did not go into effect until October 1, 2014 due to Affordable Care Act requirements. This increase immediately placed thousands

of adults with disabilities in precarious financial situations where they were unable to pay their bills. Persons with disabilities who wanted to work had to give up their jobs, could not make payments on their accessible vehicle or even lost their apartments. DHS data showed that about 650 more people have been dis-enrolled than is typical for that three-month period before the premium increases were imposed, indicating that people were losing not only their jobs but essential health care coverage.

Both the House and Senate included full repeal of the MA-EPD premium in their HHS budgets and while it was not included in his budget, the governor came out in support of the repeal of the premium after hearing personal stories of those impacted by the premium increase.

The Health and Human Services budget returns the MA-EPD premiums to what people were paying before the 2014 increase. Specifically, the monthly minimum fee on earned income decreased from $65 to $35/month and the unearned income charge (usually from social security) was decreased from 5 percent to .5 percent. Beginning September 1, 2015, 8,700 Minnesotans with disabilities will once again be able to benefit from earnings and additional savings while still maintaining eligibility for MA, a big win for working people with disabilities.

Raising the MA spend-down - moving the spend-down from 75 to 80 percent of Federal Poverty Guideline Progress was also made on the centerpiece of MA

Reform, raising the MA excess income standard (spenddown) from 75 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline (FPG) to 80 percent. MA is so important to people with disabilities because it allows them access to waiver services that help them remain independent.

The problem is the standards to qualify for MA are too low, forcing adults and seniors with disabilities deep into poverty to get the services they need to remain independent in their community. Additionally, when people can’t afford to pay for services they either go without care or providers of MA services are expected to absorb these costs without repayment.

This change will impact 12,000 adults and seniors with disabilities who will be able to keep $50 more each month to help pay living expenses while still qualifying for MA health care services which are essential to living independently. Advocates recognize that this is only one small step toward what really needs to happen with the MA income, asset and spend-down standards but it is the first time the spend-down standard has been raised since 2001.

Plans are already underway to build on this small success next session to further raise the spend-down standard and increase the $3,000 MA asset limit for the first time in 32 years. Every 5 percent increase in the spend-down standard means an additional $50 more for adults and seniors with disabilities to pay their living expenses. Both House and Senate authors have committed to work next session to continue making progress by raising the spend-down.

The MA Reform Campaign’s most important advocacy strategy this session was sharing the personal stories of people subject to the spend-down and impacted by the income and asset standards. These stories were shared in person with legislators during Tuesdays at the Capitol, in testimony during committee hearings and as part of the MN-CCD’s Faces of Disability exhibit in March. The Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance delivered an MA impact story every week during session to legislative leadership and members of the Health and Human Services policy and finance committees. Go to http://tinyurl.com/Disability-stories to see excerpts from these powerful stories. The MA Reform Campaign plans to build on this strategy for 2016 and is looking for people willing to share their stories of the impact of the spend-down or the low income and asset limits contact MN-CCD at jo@mnccd.org ■

Olmstead Plan - from p. 1 cess to housing, jobs and services under an approved Olmstead Plan. While the plan is expected to be an evolving document that changes over time, the fact that Frank continues to find problems with the plan does trouble many disability community advocates.

All states are required to have Olmstead plans, which are named after Georgia state human services official Tommy Olmstead. A fight in that state over segregation of people with disabilities wound up before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1999. About threefourths of states have plans in place.

Mary Tingerthal, head of the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA), chairs the state’s Olmstead Sub-Cabinet. In a statement to the Star Tribune, Tingerthal said the state remains committed to the vision of serving people with disabilities in the most integrated settings possible, and that plan revisions will continue. MHFA is one of several state agencies involved in the planning process.

The plan is under scrutiny by individuals as well as organizations concerned about integration as well as the pace of the plan’s progress. Some have praised the plan and the goals it is trying to attain, while others have raised questions about specifics such as tracking and reporting methods, and how the lack of specifics effects of measurable goals. Questions have been raised about how plan progress will be tracked and monitored, and data collected. For example, the Minnesota Disability Law Center has filed briefs critical of the lack of tracking of how choices will be made between sheltered workshops or day programs, and more integrated work settings.

The other wrinkle in the debate over Olmstead is a

recently launched Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) investigation of David Ferleger, the court monitor for the plan. DHS officials have contended that the review is needed because of the spending and violations of state policy. Ferleger countered that he has been conservative in his spending and has not even billed state officials for all of his time and expenses.

DHS auditors are trying to determine whether more than $1.24 million in expense invoices violate state policy and are excessive. According to the Star Tribune, DHS Commissioner Lucinda Jesson ordered the review after it was found that three first-class airline tickets valued at more than $1,000 had been purchased. That is a violation of state policy. State funds require use of lower airfares.

Ferleger lives in Pennsylvania. He is also a consultant to the federal court in a class-action lawsuit centered on the state’s sex offender program and whether it is constitutional.

Frank appointed Ferleger oversee implementation of the 2011 court settlement centered on treatment of residents at the now-closed Minnesota Extended Treatment Options or METO facility in Cambridge.

That settlement was not only meant to phase out the use of restraints and seclusions at state facilities, it also jump-started the state’s Olmstead Plan work.

Critics of DHS and the Olmstead process have questioned whether Ferleger is being singled out because of his criticism of plan progress and because he has taken DHS to task over issues including continued use of prone restraints and seclusion. Ferleger has also questioned information DHS has provided to the federal court. Correspondence and motions in the case have been contentious.

The Olmstead Sub-Cabinet continues to work on the plan and is seeking additional public comments. Those working on plan revisions would like comments on the current plan version by Fri, June 19. The plan may be seen at http://tinyurl.com/Olmstead-comments Or comment online at mn.gov/Olmstead Click “Participate” and follow instructions for an online form.

Comments can be sent to MNOlmstead Plan@state. mn.us via email or mail to Olmstead Implementation Office, 400 Sibley Street, #255 St. Paul, MN 55101.

Call 651-296-8081if there are questions. ■

Pg 14 June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6

June 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 National Federation for the Blind (NFB) Newsline. Register for NFB Newsline by calling 651-539-1424.

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

Chautauqua • Tuesday - Saturday 4 a.m.

How We Got to Now, nonfiction by Steven Johnson, 2014. Nine broadcasts. Begins June 26. Innovations

over the centuries included six key technologies of modern life. Coming from their creation by hobbyists, amateurs, and entrepreneurs, they had unintended historical consequences. Read by Yelva Lynfield.

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

Chaucer’s Tale, nonfiction by Paul Strohm, 2014. Nine broadcasts. Begins June 23. Chaucer had lived a comfortable life in London, writing for a small audience of friends and supporting himself with a bureaucratic job. But eventually he went into exile in Kent, where he began to write for the public and for posterity. Read by Esmé Evans.

Bookworm • Monday - Friday 11 a.m.

I Refuse, fiction by Per Petterson, 2015. Eight broadcasts. Begins June 22. Thirty-five years ago, Tommy and Jim were everything to each other. But a single incident set them on divergent paths. Now they meet again and wonder if there is anything left to unite them. Read

by Don Gerlach.

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

Breaking the Code, nonfiction by Pat Matter and Chris Omodt, 2014. Nine broadcasts. Begins June 23. A highly respected Hell’s Angels president and an honest, hard-working cop were on different paths until their worlds collided. L - Read by Dan Sadoff.

Choice Reading • Monday - Friday 4 p.m.

The Paris Winter, fiction by Imogen Robertson, 2014.

13 broadcasts. Begins June 17. Maud thinks her solution is at hand when she becomes a live-in companion for a young woman. But she discovers the woman is an opium addict and her brother has an ominous air of intrigue. She is soon caught up in their world of deception and revenge. Read by Michelle Juntunen.

PM Report • Monday - Friday 8 p.m.

Just Mercy, nonfiction by Bryan Stevenson, 2014.

12 broadcasts. Begins June 29. Bryan Stevenson was a young lawyer when he founded the Equal Justice Initiative. One of his first cases was that of Walter McMillian, who was sentenced to die for a murder he insisted he didn’t commit. Read by Chris Colestock.

Night Journey • Monday - Friday 9 p.m.

Pardon the Ravens, fiction by Alan Hruska, 2015. 11 broadcasts. Begins June 16. Young lawyer Alec Brno gets the opportunity to try a huge fraud case. But he risks it all when he falls for a young woman whose estranged husband is the criminal mastermind behind Alec’s case. V, L - Read by Don Lee. Off the Shelf • Monday - Friday 10 p.m.

The Silkworm, fiction by Robert Galbraith, 2014. 18 broadcasts. Begins June 18. When novelist Owen Quine goes missing, his wife thinks he might have just gone off on his own for a bit. But he’s written a manuscript with poison-pen portraits of everyone he knows and there are a lot of people who want to silence him. L - Read by Eileen Barratt.

Potpourri • Monday - Friday 11 p.m.

Subway to California, nonfiction by Joseph di Prisco, 2014. 14 broadcasts. Begins June 17. In 1960, the Di Prisco family fled Brooklyn and the FBI, ending up in California. Joe’s father was a small-time member of a crew of bookmakers. Joe, however, wasn’t called to a life of crime, and sought a different life. L - Read by Peter Danbury.

Good Night Owl • Monday - Friday midnight Close My Eyes, fiction by Sophie McKenzie, 2013. 14 broadcasts. Begins June 16. Geniver has never recovered from the stillborn birth of a daughter eight years ago. Her husband, Art, is eager to have another child and to move on. Then a woman claims that Gen’s baby had been born alive and was taken away by the doctor and given to someone else, and that her husband was in on the scheme. Read by Joy Fogarty.

After Midnight • Tuesday - Saturday 1 a.m.

Princess of Thorns, fiction by Stacey Jay, 2014. 11 broadcasts. Begins June 23. As they race to prevent the fulfillment of a prophecy foretelling the end of life, Aurora and Niklaas learn there are worse things than old curses. Aurora can only love platonically, and Niklaas is looking for her but not in the male guise Aurora wears.

Read by Janelle Mattson.

Weekend Program Books Your Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing Down Size, by Ted Spiker; For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing The Eye of Minds, by James Dashner; Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing Gabriel, by Edward Hirsch and Blue Horses, by Mary Oliver; The U.S. and Us (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing Minneapolis Madams, by Penny A. Petersen and Stolen from the Garden, by William Swanson.

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

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June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6 Pg 15

Legislative summary - from p. 1 network to keep children out of emergency rooms and inpatient psychiatric wards. Some parents have had to send their children out of state for care. Another $847,000 was provided for respite care for families in crisis.

The gains for mental health are the largest in state history, according to the Mental Health Legislative Network. The network waged a high-profile campaign at the capitol, under the motto “We know what works: Build on it.” While there were clashes over issues such as how services should be provided in rural Minnesota, advocates agreed that it was a year of historic progress.

A spend-down is a cost-sharing approach which allows Medical Assistance eligibility for people whose income is greater than the applicable federal poverty guideline (FPG). Individuals can “spending down” their excess income to the appropriate FPG standard to become eligible. The excess income is reduced by purchasing certain medical necessities.

Federal rules refer to this population as “medically needy.”

There are two spend-down standards. People using a families and children basis of eligibility must spend down to the 133 percent standard. People using a blind, disabled, or age 65 or older basis of eligibility must spend down to the 75 percent standard.

Suicide prevention got needed support, including $1 million for the Text for Life program and $449,000 for other suicide prevention efforts. Mental health crisis services received $8.57 million.

But a high-profile campaign for a five percent wage increase for caregivers stalled, much to the disappointment of a large group of advocates. Several other initiatives also failed to find a place in the final budget. (Summaries of key legislative issues start on page 3 and continue on pages 4-5 and 13.)

As Access Press went to press, Dayton and House and Senate leaders agreed to hold a special session in the State Office Building. That’s because the House and Senate chambers are now torn up for renovation.

But political leaders were still hammering out the issues to be covered during the special session. In the meantime, layoff notices went out in anticipation of a partial state government shutdown July 1.

The special session will covered vetoed or unfinished bills on education, environmental issues, agriculture, legacy funding and jobs. It’s possible that bonding, transportation and taxes will also come up.

Transportation was an issue with disability community involvement, through the Move MN group. But what was passed and signed into law was basically a “lights on” measure keeping funding levels current.

For people with disabilities, that doesn’t address longstanding needs for improved paratransit services around the state.

Looking back on a session that began with a large surplus and even with talk of lawmakers being able to

work efficiently and skip a legislative session in 2016, disability community advocates were left wondering how things had gone so badly. But the surplus and the talk of getting things done had to be balanced against political conflicts as well as leadership changes on key committees. Another factor this session was the capitol renovation and how it posted challenges of accessibility and visibility for issues.

With the rotunda area under construction, many groups chose not to have rallies that typically draw needed attention to their causes.

At the final Friday Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) meeting, several people said that lessons from 2015 need to be carried forward if the community is to be successful in the future. But MN-CCD leadership tried to focus on the positive, honor activists and legislators and look to 2016 at its legislative review gathering June 3.

MA spend-down reform will continue to be a legislative in 2016 as the spend-down forces people who are already at low incomes to be driven further into poverty. MA spend-down reform was the top issue for MN-CCD this past session, said Susie Schatz of Lutheran Social Services. She said disability community leaders are already discussing strategies to bring the spend-down issue forward again in 2016 and to also address ways to change the limits on assets people can have, Articles about the 2015 MN-CCD All-Stars and legislative champions, as well as additional new laws, will appear in the July issue of Access Press. ■

Nominations - from p. 1 Access Press. “Nominations in years past have represented a wide spectrum of community members, and we hope the 2015 field is no different.”

Benjamin noted that this year’s winner is being honored during the 25th anniversary year for Access Press.

Any individual or group in Minnesota is eligible for nomination. People cannot nominate themselves.

Past nominees can be nominated again, but a nominator cannot submit the same person or organization in consecutive years. A person or organization can be nominated for two consecutive years, but has to wait one year before being nominated again. Please send a high-resolution digital photo or an actual picture of the nominee. Otherwise, be prepared to tell the editors where a high-resolution picture can be obtained.

Pictures will be returned on request.

Completed nominations, with photographs can be sent via email to CSAnominations@accesspress.org, via fax to (651) 644-2136, or mail to Access Press, c/o Charlie Smith Award Committee, 161 St. Anthony Avenue #910; St. Paul, MN 55103.

The 2014 winners were Christine Marble and Wendy Devore, DeafBlind Services of Minnesota The winner is the guest of honor at the annual award banquet, which is November 6 at the Minneapolis Airport Marriot 2020 E. American Blvd., Bloomington. Guests enjoy a delicious meal, a fun silent auction and “pick your prize” raffle, speeches

and time to socialize with friends. Family members and friends of the honoree are encouraged to attend.

The Marriott is reasonably accessible. Interpretation is offered, by request for any guests. Please let the Access Press staff know in advance if any accommodations are needed.

Meal choices will be announced soon. Ticket information is on the website.

Sponsors, prizes needed The 2015 banquet relies on donors to make the event a success. AccraCare is the 2015 event’s first sponsor, at the Editor-in-chief level. UCare is another sponsor at that level Three levels of sponsorship are offered. For Editorin-Chief Level, a $400 donation gets the organization/company name and logo displayed on a special banquet banner, on a table and in the 2015 banquet program. This level sponsor also gets a table named in its honor at the banquet. Another benefit is two free rotating website ads, a value of $200. This sponsorship also brings a one-year listing in the newspaper’s Directory of Organizations (a $60 value) and a free one-year subscription to the print edition.

For Proofreaders Level, a $300 donation gets the organization/company name and logo displayed on a special banquet banner, on a table and in the 2015 banquet program. Another benefit is two free rotating website ads, a value of $200.

A Keyliners Level sponsorship, named for those who used to paste up newspaper pages, is $200.

Sponsors receive the organization/company name and logo displayed on a special banquet banner, on a table and in the 2015 banquet program. Keyliners receive one free website ad, a value of $100.

All sponsors are recognized in the November and December 2015 print editions of Access Press.

Anyone interested in sponsorships should contact Access Press Office Manager Dawn Frederick at 651644-2133, or dawn@accesspress.org ■

What is a spend-down?

EMPLOYMENT Employment ads are $22-$25 per col. inch. Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 FAX 651-644-2136 • Email: access@accesspress.org

Teachers Needed – University of Minnesota Child Development Center The University of Minnesota Child Development Center (UMCDC) has openings for: two child care teachers (Job ID: 300984), one assistant child care teacher (Job ID: 301150), and an on-call assistant teacher. UMCDC is an NAEYC-accredited and MN-DHS licensed yrround, full-day, “fee-for-service” child development program that provides high quality care for infant, toddler, and preschool children of University students, staff, and faculty. At UMCDC values diversity among our families and seeks candidates for our positions that reflect our community and demonstrate a commitment to an inclusive environment.

Interested applicants can apply at: www1.umn.edu/ ohr/employment/

Teaching Artist – UPSTREAM ARTS Upstream Arts is a non-profit organization which focuses on the arts, education, and disabilities. Parttime Teaching Artist positions are currently available and résumé with cover letters are accepted through June 12th. Please see website for more information: www.upstreamarts.org/about-us/opportunities/ Administrative & Program Assistant – UPSTREAM ARTS Upstream Arts is a non-profit organization which focuses on the arts, education, and disabilities. A parttime Administrative and Program Assistant position is currently available and résumé with cover letters are accepted through June 12th. Please see website for more information: www.upstreamarts.org/about-us/opportunities/

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

FOR RENT Lewis Park Apartments: Barrier-free housing with wheelchair users in mind. Section 8 subsidized. Oneand 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 952-935-9125 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.

Find your new home with At Home Apartments.

Call 651-224-1234 or visit AtHomeApartments.com for an apartment or town home. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Stonehouse Square Apartments: We are accepting applications for the waiting list for one-bedroom wheelchair accessible apartments. Section 8 subsidized. Convenient NE Minneapolis location. FMI: 612-378-3945. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Pg 16 June 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 6