October 2015 Edition - Access Press

Graduates, Pg 15

Volume 26, Number 10

October 10, 2015

www.accesspress.org

Olmstead Get your tickets approved; Access Press banquet is a celebration of accomplishments work Deaf community advocate Jessalyn Akerman-Frank is the 2015 Access Press remains Charlie Smith Award winner. Her advocacy

by Jane McClure

Approval of Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan September 29 caps almost four years’ efforts. The plan provides clarity as to how people with disabilities will be more fully integrated into the greater community and how supports and services will be provided. However, questions remain about everything from how the plan will be implemented to whether it means the loss of some programs and facilities.

While hailing U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank’s decision to approve the plan, state leaders agree there is much work left to do toward plan implementation. One next step is progress reports toward the plan’s measurable goals. The Olmstead Subcabinet was to submit work plans for each of 13 topic areas by October 10. After reports are submitted the court will review and approve implementation of the Olmstead - p. 5

and disability community commitment are multi-faceted. She is known for her effectiveness in assisted deaf and hard of hearing persons who have experienced domestic abuse or sexual assault. She is also a leader in the LGBTQI deaf community and founded the annual Deaf Pride Awards. Akerman-Frank is a gifted writer and speaker, with a long resume of accomplishments. Don’t miss a chance to meet this accomplished woman and hear her speak at the annual award banquet, Friday, November 6 in Bloomington. (See last month’s profile on our award winner.)

Everyone will want to attend an evening of fun and celebration of the accomplishments of Minnesota’s disability community, the Access Press Charlie Smith Award banquet. Banquet tickets and opportunities to donate to the silent auction and “pick your prize” raffle are still available.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with a cash bar and punch available. Enjoy music, see displays about the award winner and all of the nominees, check out and bid on the silent auction and enjoy visiting with friends. The sit-down dinner and award ceremony start at 7 p.m.

The banquet is again at the Minneapolis Airport Marriott, 2020 American Blvd E, Bloomington. The venue phone number is 952-854-7441. The venue has ample off-street parking for people with disabilities, and the event is held on the main floor.

A former St. Paul convent will become a crisis residence, despite the objections of neighbors.

Photo courtesy of East Side Review

“Minnesota’s Olmstead

NEWS DIGEST Carol Fury of EquipALife, shown at a previous Access Press Charlie Smith Award banquet, enjoyed the “pick your prize” silent auction.

File photo

Meal choices are Tuscan chicken, slowroasted beef or vegetarian. If mailing in one’s reservation without an official RSVP card, please note accordingly so the proper dinner is ordered.

There are several ways to reserve tickets. Go to www.accesspress.org and click on the line for the awards event. Or mail a payment to: Access Press, Attn: Dawn, 161 St. Anthony Ave., Suite 910, St. Paul, MN 55103. A third option is to call the office and do the transaction over the phone, at 651-644-2133.

Tickets cost is $45 per person or $325 for an Banquet is a celebration - p. 3

Crisis residence relocation wins long fight People Inc.’s Diane Ahrens Crisis Residence will relocate from St. Paul’s Hamline-Midway area to the Hazel Park area on the city’s East Side. Months of debate at the neighborhood, St. Paul Planning Commission and City Council level ended September 10 with a 5-2 council vote of approval.

The council approved a zoning change for 1784 Lacrosse Ave. that allows the facility to be converted into a crisis shelter for people with mental illness. The

Address Service Requested

Plan will help ensure all people have a voice in the decisions that ultimately determine their quality of life” — Lt. Gov. Tina Smith

Months of debate

by Jane McClure

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities. MN Permit No. 4766

building was a convent for many years, for the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration and Blessed Sacrament Church.

Council Members Dan Bostrom and William Finney voted against the change. They contended that the 16-bed facility’s parking needs would overwhelm the surrounding community.

The facility has three off-street spaces and plan to add three more. People Inc. representatives said those who stay at the home, for up to 10 days, typically don’t bring their vehicles.

People Inc. has been serving the mentally ill since 1969 and works with about 9,500 clients per year. The nonprofit, which got its start in St. Paul, operates about 60 different programs throughout the Twin Cities.

People Inc. CEO Jill Wiedemann-West said the former convent would be an ideal location for the facility. It has an enclosed courtyard, which would provide privacy for clients. She told the City Council that clients are carefully screened before being allowed to stay at the facility.

Wiedemann-West said it’s People Inc.’s intent to have good relations with its neighbors, and to have regular contact with them.

Crisis residence relocates - p. 3

Experiences shared, help found in The Arc’s many support groups.

Just ask these guys.

Page 12

Meaningful work has value for our community.

Page 4

Use the Access Press quarterly Directory of Organizations to find the assistance you need.

PP 7-10

New accommodations will be enjoyed by duck hunters.

Page 13

Attend upcoming statewide dialogue on employment, resources fair.

Page 11

INSIDE Accessible Fun, pg 11 Events, pg 12 People & Places, pg 13 Radio Talking Book, pg 14 Regional News, pg 6

Pg 2 October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10

EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin On September 29, US District Court Judge Donovan Frank accepted the most recent version of the federaland state-mandated Olmstead plan. Frank stated in his ruling. “The Court applauds the parties for their collaboration in developing this landmark Olmstead Plan.

Simply put, this revision of the Olmstead Plan is unlike any other version submitted to the Court. The Court fully expects the State to act on its promises to ensure that the Olmstead Plan will truly put the promise of Olmstead into practice across the state.”

The overwhelming consensus from the Olmstead Implementation Office (OIO) is that this is truly a victory for the disability community. I feel they’ve done a great job as well. After several versions and several requests for more explicit requirements, the OIO has succeeded. This plan maps a direct progression of specific, actionable goals and timeframes with targets to measure progress. The plan provides a blueprint that will change the way state government provides services and supports for Minnesotans with disabilities. We applaud the work of Darlene Zangara,

OIO Executive Director, Kristin Jorenby, Assistant Director, and Tristy A. Auger, Executive Assistant.

They can be rightly proud of a job well done. These three folks faced an almost impossible task and they succeeded. The OIO and the entire subcommittee of eight state agencies is not yet completely finished with the Olmstead plan, since the plan is a fluid construct with goals, timeframes and outcomes that must be constantly evaluated. The plan will also be subject to public reporting under the very watchful eyes of the community and the ongoing recommendations of U.S. Magistrate Judge Becky R. Thorson. In 2016, a Quality Of Life Survey of people with disabilities will be conducted and its data evaluated to determine how integrated and engaged in the community people are and how much autonomy they have on day-to-day decision-making about their lives in the setting of their choice.

The Minnesota Olmstead plan is intended to ensure that people with disabilities have a clear understanding of all their options to enjoy life and to work and learn in the settings of their choice. It guarantees more fully integrated services that treat people with dignity and respect—not in institutions, but in their communities. The plan requires person-centered planning, which will offer information on options and honor any decision that the person makes, ideally integrated into the community, in jobs, support services, in transportation and in education. It should be

noted, though, that people may make choices that are right for them. We have to remember that integration into the community may not be the choice that some individuals will prefer. We must likewise remember that each of us has our own definitions of integration and dignity. The person-centered planning recognizes this, and it is required that an informed decision by the individual is met with respect and followed. If implemented correctly, this plan will allow all of us more and better opportunities to increase our quality of life. Gov. Mark Dayton applauded the efforts of the court and the subcommittee and said, “We will continue to work hard to improve life opportunities for Minnesotans with disabilities.”

I encourage you to join me in congratulating the OIO and the subcommittee. We have to show our appreciation for the efforts of the eight state agencies that cooperated to get this plan to the point of acceptance by the court. It’s important that these eight agencies continue to cooperate efficiently, and that the legislature allots them the budgets to fulfill their implementation of the entire plan. There’s no question that this plan will be costly on the front side, but I think on the backside it will be a benefit not only to the disability community but to Minnesotans in general, including our ever-increasing community of elderly individuals.

Hope to see you November 6 at the Charlie Smith Awards banquet. We have a great award recipient in Jessaalyn Akerman-Frank, and many more causes for celebration this year. 25 years of ADA, 25 years of Access Press and now Olmstead! ■

HISTORY NOTE

Inventors’ group had long history of helping others After 58 years of stimulating the economy, celebrating creativity and innovation, and helping launch multiple businesses, the Minnesota Inventors Congress has shut down. The shutdown, announced October 1, is due to reductions in state funding. It means an end to an inventors’ center started in 1985, competitions and student programs. It also means the end of an annual inventors’ expo that was the oldest in the United States.

“This organization has served inventors and fostered economic development through job growth in many local communities across Minnesota by bringing new products to market that manufacturers have either added into their product line or new start up manufacturing facilities have started ... As board members we are proud to have served in this capacity for the fu-

ture of economic growth in our state,” said Julie Rath, Minnesota Inventors Congress board member.

The late Bob Starr, along with other Redwood Falls area farmers and businesspeople, created the Minnesota Inventors Congress in 1958 as a way to connect local inventors and manufacturers. The organization has helped countless inventors make their dreams a reality, from board games to heavy equipment. The list of inventions is varied and ranges from the simple to the very complex. One claim to fame is the invention of the first pop-up camper. The Rolite Trailer was unveiled in 1958.

For people with disabilities, the Minnesota Inventors Congress launched items meant to make everyday life easier. Many inventors were inspired by the situation of a friend or family member, and worked

Volume 26, Number 10 • Periodicals Imprint: Pending ISSN Co-Founder/Publisher Wm. A. Smith, Jr. (1990-1996)

Executive Director Tim Benjamin

Co-Founder/Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Charles F. Smith (1990-2001)

Managing Editor Jane McClure

Board of Directors Brigid Alseth, Steve Anderson, John Clark, Kristin Jorenby, Halle O'Falvey, Carrie Salberg, Cheryl Vander Linden, Walt Seibert and Mark Zangara

Business Manager/Webmaster Dawn Frederick

Advertising Sales Michelle Hegarty,612-807-1078

Production Ellen Houghton, Presentation Images

Cartoonist Scott Adams

Distribution: S. C. Distribution 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 does 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. Lowincome, student and bulk subscriptions are available at discounted rates.

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

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

on an invention to improve someone else’s life. One popular type of invention was an all-terrain wheelchair, to help people who use wheelchairs work on farms or enjoy the outdoors.

One of the first and best-known inventions was the quad cane. St. Paul resident Carl Oja exhibited his invention, a four-pronged cane. at the 1964 Minnesota Inventors Congress invention expo. The cane is believed to be the first of its kind that could stand up on its own.

Little did Oja know how much his invention would change his life. Energized after exhibiting at the expo, Oja returned to his medical equipment business in St Paul, O-J Rental and Sales Company, with dreams of the future.

Oja eventually moved his business and family to History - p. 4

October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10

Banquet is a celebration - from p. 1 8-person table (save $35) in advance. Tickets are $50 per person day of the event, at the doors.

One eagerly awaited feature this year is the silent auction and “pick your prize” raffle. Original art-

File photo

work, restaurant and coffeehouse gift certificates, sports and theater tickets, a GoPro camera, jewelry, food and beverage items, collectibles, handmade scarves and hats, fun décor and unique housewares are among the items offered this year. There’s a bit of a state theme, with a cribbage board shaped like a state map and a fish-shaped big metal wall thermometer – perfect for that Minnesota-focused recreation room.

While some items are offered on a bid basis, other nice items can be won simply for the price of a 50cent raffle ticket. The “pick your prize” raffle is always a favorite, with the fun of trying to win something nice to take home.

“Many generous donors make this event a success, from our banquet sponsors to those who donate items for us to place in the silent auction and raffle,” said Access Press Executive Director Tim Benjamin. “The

Crisis residence relocates - from p. 1 The new location is in Bostrom’s Ward Six. Bostrom said he didn’t think the process worked in the case of the People Inc. rezoning, claiming it is an illegal spot zoning. Spot zoning is when a property is given a different type of zoning than surrounding properties have. “We’re saying because we like the organization, let’s disregard the facts,” he said.

St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman, Ramsey County Board Chairman Jim McDonough and many disability rights and mental advocacy groups spoke out for the zoning change. The Minnesota Department of Human Services, National Alliance for the mentally Ill Minnesota and other advocacy groups also sent letters or provided testimony.

“This is about individuals: individuals who want to live in our community, individuals who want to be treated with respect and dignity,” McDonough told the City Council But nearby businesses, residential neighbors and the District Two Community Council, a city-sanctioned citizen participation group, were opposed.

Many neighbors noted that the area has two elementary schools, a church and business district with spillover parking. One idea City Council members suggested was that People Inc. buy a nearby home, tear it down and create an off-street parking lot. But that was rejected due to costs and practicality.

The project has been undergoing review since May. It was awarded a needed conditional use permit during the summer.

The relocation debate was as complex as it was emotional. Opponents bristled at being labeled as NIMBY. They said the issue was about parking and density, and whether site zoning should change from single-family to multifamily residential use. Many said it had nothing to do with the use as a crisis residence, a claim that met with skepticism.

Attorney Brian Alton, who presented People Inc., was skeptical of the claims that the change was a case of illegal spot zoning. “We hear that this is about zoning and it isn’t about people. We hide behind that

a lot. We use zoning to keep people out who don’t look like us, don’t believe like us, and don’t behave like us. Don’t fool yourself. This is about people.

This is about individuals who want to live with dignity in our community, people who need transitional care to help them recover,” he said.

“I’ve talked to most of you about this.” Alton said to the council members. “You all say you get it.

You’re supportive. But there’s always a ‘but’ that follows. There really can’t be a ‘but’ this time. We need to do better.”

District 2 Executive Director Chuck Repke said that People Inc. should have petitioned the neighbors for permission to rezone the property. “I want to be clear that this is a zoning matter. It’s about land and land use,” he said. “We don’t have any issues with People Incorporated or the clients they serve.” But People Inc. representatives said the process was skewed against them and at one neighborhood meeting, a vote was taken before the group could event make a presentation. City rules do allow the organization to seek the zoning change without a consent petition.

Neighbors and neighboring business owners spoke against the change. Cindie Neunfeldt, who owns a salon in the area, said, “We’ll have nowhere to park.

It’s unbelievable.”

Other council members questioned the parking arguments. “We have parking problems all over the city,” said Council President Russ Stark also added, “Zoning questions don’t come down to ‘Do you like the people or do you not like the people?’ “ Council Member Dave Thune also cast one of the votes for the zoning change. He said it’s a legal use and that allowing People Inc. to move meets a need.

“Mental illness has such dire consequences,” he said.

His Second Ward includes the St. Paul High Bridge, which has been the site of a number of suicides.

People Inc. has not announced a firm timeline for the move. The Hazel Park property will need some work before the program can move in. ■

Access Press banquet attendees are always happy to see such wonderful items in the silent auction and raffle.

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raffle is fun and you never know what you might win.”

One feature this year is several beautiful framed photos donated by the family of Judith J. Riese, a talented photographer who died in April. Riese was 72 and lived in Shoreview. Her family members want to ensure that others can enjoy Riese’s photograThe late Judith Riese is shown here phy, known as with some of her work. Her family Riese’s Pieces, so has donated some of her lovely photos to the banquet's silent auction. those are offered Courtesy photo for bid as part of the Access Press event.

Riese worked for the St. Paul Public Schools for many years. After retirement, she was able to devote more time and energy to her book club, travel, writing and her photography portfolio. Her studio was in Minneapolis’ Northrop King Building. Her beautiful work was displayed and sold at many Twin Cities and regional art galleries, and she took part on shows including Northeast Minneapolis’ Art-a-Whirl tours and festivals. Riese’s work included art photography, nature scenes and pictures from her travels. ■

Respond to survey, guide state plan The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities is seeking input, through a survey, for its next five-year state plan. The council is repeating a similar survey from 2000, 2005 and 2010 to gather valuable information about important issues. Using the same format allows the council to more easily compare current and past survey results.

The council needs input from people with developmental disabilities, family members, and professionals/providers.

The letter of invitation can be found at this link: http://tinyurl.com/DD-Council-survey There is a specific box called “click here to start” so please click on that box to get the survey started.

Anyone needing alternative formats should call Derek Pearson at 1-800-943-3099.

The council would like several hundreds of people to participate so please help by forwarding this message to other Minnesotans who might be willing to participate. The deadline to respond is November 1. ■

Pg 4 October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Provide meaningful employment choices for all

by Lori Schluttenhofer, Opportunity Partners

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and as a Twin Cities disability organization we celebrate the opportunity to promote hiring people with disabilities and draw attention to the challenges ahead.

At Opportunity Partners, our employment programs – the cornerstone upon which our organization was founded in 1953 – provide individuals with disabilities with training, placement, job coaching and support and even transportation in some cases. These employment choices range from independent, competitive employment to supported community teams and center-based work options.

More and more, we see center-based work options falling under greater scrutiny as society takes steps to move closer to a goal of full inclusion and competitive wages for workers with disabilities. Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan promises changes for people with disabilities to experience more integration and inclusion in their communities in areas of employment, as well as housing, transportation, services, education, healthcare and community engagement.

We are optimistic about a future of greater opportunities and inclusion for people with disabilities. And in order to create a disability service system where individuals can make meaningful choice and have self-determination, Minnesotans with disabilities and their families must have the strongest voice in the conversation. “NOTHING ABOUT US WITHOUT US,” is what we hear, and we must listen.

In our 60 years of experience, we know center-based work and supported community teams can help individuals with disabilities acquire skills, build confidence, and gain social benefits like time management and relationships with staff and peers. For many, these are integral steps on the path to employment independence.

Phillip is one of many success stories. He graduated from our innovative Certified Learning Platforms in office assistant and professional cleaning (in collaboration with Dunwoody Workforce Training) and retail (part of the Walgreens REDI program). This led to an independent, competitive job as a housekeeper at a Twin Cities senior property. “I feel like I made it to the big league,” Phillip said.

Yet for other individuals, the idea of working independently in the community can be scary or even debilitating – even with the support of a trusted job coach.

We need to advocate for these individuals and their right to have choices too.

We salute the many companies that partner with organizations like ours to meet their staffing needs, diversify their workforce and contribute to a stronger community. These companies have uncovered the benefits that come from hiring workers

with disabilities like increased team morale and reduced turnover and training costs.

But even as our economy has improved and unemployment rates in the general population have inched downward, the unemployment rates for people with disabilities remain very high.

For any job seeker, disability or not, the key to employment success is finding the right fit. This can take time. There may be a few misses before hitting the target. Opportunity Partners needs a large pool of employers in order to find the right match for the many candidates with disabilities so eager to work.

Last year, Opportunity Partners reached an all-time record for us of 147 competitive, independent job placements in the community. And with the support of an outstanding business community, we’re convinced we can do even better.

Another disability policy priority we are following is the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. Passed by Congress in 2014, the act helps job seekers access training and support to succeed in competitive employment. Under the new law, individuals with disabilities age 24 and younger will no longer be allowed to work for less than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour unless they first receive pre-employment transition services at school and try vocational rehabilitation services.

We look forward to the potential outcomes of this legislation, but it’s critical that innovative transition services be developed and funded at the state level to ensure young adults receive employment preparedness services prior to completing high school and avoid falling through the service gap following graduation.

At Opportunity Partners, we’re excited to be working with the St. Paul Public Schools to provide transition students paid work experiences in a variety of businesses. The students earn minimum wage while trying out jobs in clerical, retail, childcare, production, food service and hospital settings.

By setting expectations early for work success, we’ll see more young adults with disabilities ready to move into independent or semi-independent employment in the future.

During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, let’s recognize the diverse needs of our disability community, celebrate the menu of options available and strive to keep improving as we move forward together. ■ Lori Schluttenhofer is vice president, vocational and habilitation services at Opportunity Partners, a Twin Cities nonprofit organization helping 2,000 people with disabilities live, learn and work more independently.

History - from p. 2 Redwood Falls, where he made the shift from retail sales to inventing and manufacturing. The company, ActiveAid, is still going strong and makes and sells many types of medical and home care supplies.

Inventing and inventions will of course continue. In the disability community, people will always be thinking about the next piece of assistive technology or adapted device to improve quality of life. But the end of the Minnesota Inventors Congress means the end of an era in our state. ■ The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mnddc.org, www.mncdd.org or www.partnersinpolicymaking.com

October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10

Olmstead - from p. 1 plan, based on recommendations from US Magistrate Judge Becky R. Thorson.

Another step is creation of an annual “quality of life” survey of people with disabilities, with the first survey to be conducted in 2016. The survey will determine how well people are integrated into and engaged with their home community, and how much autonomy they have in day to day decision making, and to gauge if they are living and working in the most integrated setting they choose.

The plan has had many revisions as well as court filings over the past few years and much back-andforth with Frank. In his ruling, Frank wrote, “The court applauds the parties for their collaboration in developing this landmark Olmstead Plan. Simply put, this revision of the Olmstead Plan is unlike any other version submitted to the court. The court fully expects the state to act on its promises to ensure that the Olmstead Plan will truly put the promise of Olmstead into practice across the state.” The judge made it clear that the plan will continue to change over time, calling it an “evolving document.”

Gov. Mark Dayton thanked Frank, adding, “We will continue to work hard to improve life opportunities for Minnesotans with disabilities.”

“Judge Frank’s decision is a step toward helping Minnesotans with disabilities enjoy the full range of options available. Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan will help ensure all people have a voice in the decisions that ultimately determine their quality of life,” said Lt. Governor Tina Smith. “We still have more work to do and that’s what the implementation of this plan is focused on doing.”

Frank’s ruling indicated that long delays won’t be tolerated on issues that have dragged on for months if not years. “The court expects the state to not only follow through on these commitments, but to make them a top priority,” he wrote.

The plan covers 13 topic areas including how employment, housing, education, transportation, health care and transition services will be provided. Much of the language is broad. But Frank praised the plan for honing in specifics such as timelines to achieve key goals, more data and more commitments to get things done.

Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan is focused on providing individuals with disabilities more opportunities to experience lives of inclusion and integration in their communities – just like people without disabilities,” said Minnesota Housing Commissioner Mary Tingerthal, Olmstead Subcabinet Chair.

“This is a victory for Minnesotans with disabilities,” said Darlene Zangara, Olmstead Implementation Office’s executive director. “We look forward to moving ahead with its implementation and ensuring that all Minnesotans are able to live, learn, work and enjoy life in inclusive communities.”

The plan addresses barriers to full integration faced by people with disabilities, lays out specific action and goals, and sets various time frames. One theme of the plan is that Minnesotans with disabilities want the chance to make informed choices about their lives. It calls for expanding integrated housing, employment, and education options that will result in greater inclusion of people with disabilities.

The plan indicates that some people may choose options that aren’t integrated, and those choices should be respected. Frank noted in his ruling that there are fears that Olmstead could mean loss of some programs and facilities.

“Many individuals with disabilities in this state value living and working alongside other individuals Curious to see if there are accessible properties?

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with disabilities in settings such as group homes and sheltered workshops. The court emphasizes that the Olmstead decision is not about forcing integration upon individuals who choose otherwise or who would not be appropriately served in community settings,” Frank wrote.

Plan approval has drawn mixed reactions. Several disability advocacy groups indicated they’ll be following the plan and efforts to make sure it gets adequate state funding.

State Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities, Roberta Opheim told Minnesota Public Radio that plan goals remain too modest. Her example is that the plan’s goal to reduce the percentage of Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center patients who are ready to be integrated from 35 to 30 percent by 2019, isn’t enough.

Attorney Shamus O’Meara has also raised concerns about the plan, noting it doesn’t completely prohibit use of restraint and seclusion. “There is a lot to be done, the plan is a document,” O’Meara told MPR. “The real measure of success of this type of plan is how it’s implemented and is it going to be affecting

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people with disabilities in a positive way or is it doing something else.”

O’Meara’s lawsuit centering on maltreatment of people with disabilities at the former Minnesota Extended Treatment Options (METO) program in Cambridge jump-started Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan work. The state was ordered to complete its plan as part of a federal court settlement focused on METO, which was run by the Minnesota Department of Human Services. MEO has since been closed.

Dayton issued an executive order in January 2013 that formed the Olmstead Subcabinet, to develop and implement the plan. It includes representatives of eight state agencies.

More than 40 states have adopted similar plans since a landmark 1999 Supreme Court decision, known as Olmstead vs. L.C., ordering states to eliminate the unnecessary segregation of people with disabilities.

The case began in Georgia and is named for a former Georgia human services official, Tommy Olmstead.

To read about Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan, and the complete court ruling, go to http://tinyurl.com/MinnOlmstead-Plan ■

Pg 6 October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10

REGIONAL NEWS New hospital opens in Brooklyn Park Children facing mental health issues and their families are getting more help, as the new PrairieCare pediatric mental health clinic opened its doors in September. The 50-bed hospital in Brooklyn Park was opened to meet patient demand. PrairieCare opened a 20-bed hospital in Maple Grove four years ago but that facility quickly filled up. It’s a sign of the great need for pediatric mental health care in Minnesota.

A KARE-11 report featured a family whose teenage daughter faced a mental health crisis. Her family was fortunate to find her the proper care. But they wound up taking the last available bed at a facility. “We were lucky that there happened to be one bed left that night, otherwise I don’t know what we would have done,” the girl’s mother said.

The new facility will replace the Maple Grove facility, for a net gain of 20 beds. “Two to 10 times a day, people are calling, looking for our services and we’re unfortunately having to say ‘no’ because we’re full,” Todd Archbold, the chief development officer for PrairieCare said.

He explained that PrairieCare runs at 98 percent capacity year round. When there are no beds available, families are often sent to places where there are bed, as far away from the Twin Cities as Rochester or Fargo. PrairieCare CEO Dr. Joel Oberstar said that can be really tough on families.

“Aspects of depression or anxiety, for example, frequently hurt some family relationship. And when your child is admitted to a hospital very far away from where you live, it makes it difficult to get there and visit, difficult to participate in treatment. So we’re hoping the added capacity of this facility will help alleviate some of that burden,” he said.

The Minnesota Legislature also approved funding this year so that the state can add 150 new pediatric mental health beds over the next three years. ■ (Source: KARE-11)

DARTS is focus of second lawsuit A former DARTS employer has filed suit against the West St. Paul-based nonprofit paratransit provider DARTS. Corbet Houle of Eagan filed the lawsuit in Dakota County District Court. He contends that DARTS fired him for raising concerns about bus maintenance problems.

Houle is claiming that DARTS defamed him and violated Minnesota’s whistleblower law. The law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who point out wrongdoing. Houle notes he has had difficulty finding work since he was fired.

DARTS has denied the allegations.

DARTS had provided transportation for the elderly and people with disabilities for many years, before Metropolitan Council fired the nonprofit in 2014. Council officials said DART employees falsified records and didn’t properly maintain its buses. DARTS lost a five-year, $13.7 million contract. The controversy and change in service providers caused widespread disruption for DART clients.

Houle was hired by DARTS in 2013 and served a general manager. In his lawsuit he contends that reDART - p. 12

SCHA, UCare see mixed results The voices of South Country Health Alliance (SCHA) supporters have been heard as Minnesota Department of Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson ordered that the nonprofit be added as an option next year in 10 counties. SCHA had been shut out as an option after the state’s initial competitive-bidding process for Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare in July. The nonprofit health plan had lost 10 of its 11 counties. That meant losing 85 percent of the alliance’s customers — and possibly closing the 14-year-old business and displacing its nearly 100 employees.

But now Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare participants in those counties will be able to choose plans offered by South Country next year, and people already on alliance plans won’t have to switch.

“Steele County is pleased with the commissioner’s decision to allow South Country as an option,” said Laura Elvebak, Steele County administrator. “South Country is a collaboration of county governments in meeting the needs of some of our most vulnerable residents with a localized approach. We appreciate that Commissioner Jesson expedited the mediation process and was open to hearing the concerns of Steele County.

“As South Country is headquartered in Owatonna, not only does this decision help to maintain a valuable service to residents, but also maintain a quality employer within the county.” ■

Jesson’s order came after a three-person mediation panel held three days of expedited mediation, which is provided under state law, between Sept. 16 and Sept. 25 to consider the concerns of the counties. Of Minnesota’s 87 counties, 28 proceeded with mediation and 25 of those counties participated in an expedited process regarding the process results.

Counties, not health plans, prompted the mediation.

South Country, UCare and other plans didn’t directly participate. UCare is in the middle of a lawsuit challenging the competitive bidding results.

Thus far UCare hasn’t fared as well. As a result of the same mediation, state regulators restored UCare in just one of 25 counties that had filed appeals. Fourteen counties won modifications to the bidding results, but only Olmsted County received permission to add UCare as a potential third insurer. St. Louis and Wright counties were permitted to negotiate with Medica as a potential third provider as well.

In another 11 counties, including Ramsey County, the state said the insurance options would remain the same. Adding choices in counties needs to be done carefully, because it weakens the state’s ability to strike a good bargain with a smaller number of insurers, said Jesson. ■ (Sources: Owatonna Peoples Press, Star Tribune)

Starkey firings roil company

Research studies restricted

The September firing of top-ranking officials at Starkey Hearing Technologies has result in a lawsuit against the internationally known company. A former executive filed suit in October, contending that they lost their jobs after the stepson of Bill Austin, the company’s chief executive, wasn’t promoted. They are claiming that Austin created a hostile work environment, as well as breach of trust, defamation of character and spying.

Keith Guggenberger seeks damages in excess of $10.9 million. He was chief operations officer and one of a group of people fired abruptly. Guggenberger, who worked at Starkey for 29 years, says he was wrongfully terminated and is owed $1.2 million in wages plus benefits. Former company president Jerry Ruzicka and six other employees were also fired.

Starkey leadership has denied wrongdoing.

The lawsuit claims that Austin marginalized Ruzicka after Austin’s stepson, sales and marketing senior vice president Brandon Sawalich, wasn’t promoted. It also claims that Sawalich intercepted emails once he learned that Ruzicka was planning to leave and start his own company. The firings began September 8-9 and allegedly targeted leadership close to Ruzicka. Guggenberger stated in the lawsuit that he had no intention of leaving Starkey.

Starkey is known for his work in technology to help people hear, and for its high-profile fundraising events. Its annual gala attracts international celebrities to the Twin Cities. ■ (Source: Associated Press)

Vulnerable patients who are on 72-hour emergency holds cannot be recruited for research studies at the University of Minnesota. The decision took effect in September and is one of a number of changes underway at the university.

The policy change was made by an ethics panel as part of a larger effort to improve oversight and strengthen patient protections. A patient with schizophrenia died by suicide while he was enrolled in a drug trial in 2004. Patient Dan Markingson was recruit for a study while under court commitment order, by a university psychiatrist who was running a study, treating Markingson and advising a judge on the terms of Markingson’s commitment. State law no longer allows such a potentially coercive arrangement.

The Markingson case drew widespread attention and was the topic of scrutiny from the state legislative auditor.

University officials said that excluding patents on 72-hour holds from drug trials eliminates the potential for coercion, or even the appearance of coercion, according to Dr. Brian Herman, the university’s vice president for research. He said that the patients are in situation where they may not necessarily completely be of free will to make decisions about their participation in research.

Research ethics were targeted for major changes starting in March, suspending patient recruiting for 17 psychiatric studies. That followed two reports critical of the university’s psychiatry department. ■ (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

Minneapolis Buffalo Minneapolis Hutchinson Anoka St. Paul Mahtomedi Minneapolis Eden Prairie Minneapolis Minneapolis Minneapolis Brooklyn Center Vadnais Heights Little Falls Park Rapids

(612) 824-6665 (763) 684-1907 (612) 338-3106 1-800-661-2501 (763) 427-7650 (651) 292-8497 (651) 653-0640 (612) 377-9015 (952) 941-5544 (612) 340-1264 (612) 623-0247 (612) 721-2252 (763) 560-7563 (651) 653-0640 (320) 632-0980 1-888-332-9312

We are accepting applications for our large number of mobility impaired accessible units.

Please call us for more information.

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

October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10

ADVOCACY Advocating Change Together (ACT) Arc Greater Twin Cities The Arc of Minnesota Association of Residential Resources in MN MCIL MN Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities PACER Center, Inc. SEIU Healthcare Minnesota

V-651-641-0297 V-952-920-0855 V-651-523-0823x115 V-651-291-1086 V-651-646-8342 V-952-818-8718 V-952-838-9000 TF-855-282-3769

TF-800-641-0059 F-952-920-1480 TF-800-582-5256 TTY-800-551-2211 F-651-603-2066 F-952-818-8719 TTY-952-838-0190

www.selfadvocacy.org www.arcgreatertwincities.org www.thearcofminnesota.org www.arrm.org www.mcil-mn.org www.mnccd.org www.pacer.org www.UnitedCareWorkersMN.org

V-651-645-7271 V-651-699-6050 V-763-754-2505

TTY-800-466-7722 TTY-651-695-5802 TF-888-255-6400

www.accessiblespace.org www.dungarvin.com www.marytinc.com

V-651-699-6050 V-763-754-2505 V-612-378-2742

TTY-651-695-5802 TF-888-255-6400 TTY-800-669-6442

www.dungarvin.com www.marytinc.com www.braininjurymn.org

V/TTY-763-479-3555

F-763-479-2605

www.vinlandcenter.org

V-612-362-8454 V-651-699-6050 V-651-688-8808 V-763-754-2505 V-651-646-8342 V/TTY-612-729-7381 V-952-988-4177 V/TTY-507-345-7139

TTY-612-362-8422 TTY-651-695-5802 F-651-688-8892 TF-888-255-6400 F-651-603-2066 F-612-729-7382 F-952-988-6728 TF-888-676-6498

ASSISTED-LIVING PROGRAMS Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI) Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC Mary T. Inc. Assisted Living

BRAIN INJURY Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC Mary T. Inc. Human Service Programs Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance

CHEMICAL HEALTH Vinland National Center

COMMUNITY LIVING DeafBlind Services Minnesota (DBSM) Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC Living Well Disability Services Mary T. Inc. Human Service Programs MCIL Metro Work Center, Inc Reach for Resources S. MN Independent Living Enterprises & Services

www.dbsmllc.org www.dungarvin.com www.livingwell.org www.marytinc.com www.mcil-mn.org www.metroworkcenter.org www.reachforresources.org www.smilescil.org

CONSUMER-DIRECTED COMMUNITY SUPPORTS Community Involvement Programs (CIP) Lifeworks Services, Inc.

V-612-362-4437 TF-866-454-2732

TTY-651-365-3736

www.cipmn.org www.lifeworks.org

V-763-639-9176 V-612-752-8100 V-612-331-4584

TTY-612-752-8019 F-612-353-6638

www.adaptivelearningsuccess.com www.mrc-mn.org www.upstreamarts.org

EDUCATION Adaptive Learning Success MRC - Minnesota Resource Center Upstream Arts

CONTINUED

Pg 7

Pg 8 October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10

EMPLOYMENT/VOCATION Ally People Solutions Chrestomathy, Inc. Community Involvement Programs (CIP) Courage Kenny Rehabilition Institute Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC East Suburban Resources, Inc. Equip A Life (formerly Assistive Techology of MN) Fraser Transition Services Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota Kaposia Inc. Lifetrack - Minneapolis Lifetrack - St. Paul Lifeworks Services, Inc. Merrick, Inc. Metro Work Center, Inc. Midwest Special Services, Inc. Minnesota Diversified Industries (MDI) Opportunity Services Partnership Resources, Inc. Partnership Resources, Inc. - Minneapolis Partnership Resources, Inc. - Older Adults Program ProAct Inc. Rise, Inc. TSE, Inc. Work Incentives Connection

V-651-641-0709 V-952-974-0339 V-612-353-4595x101 V-612-775-2569 V-651-699-6050 V-651-351-0190 V-763-479-8239 V-612-767-5180 V-651-379-5800 V/TTY-651-224-6974 V-612-788-8855 V-651-227-8471 TF-866-454-2732 V-651-789-6231 V/TTY-612-729-7381 V-651-778-1000 V-651-999-8200 V-877-873-0500 V-952-925-1404 V-612-331-2075 V-952-746-6206 V-651-686-0405 V/TTY-763-786-8334 V-651-489-2595 V-651-632-5113

F-651-641-0976 F-952-974-0307 V-612-353-4595x102

V/TTY-651-361-7800 V-651-296-4018 V-651-201-2640

TTY-800-945-8913 TF-800-627-3529 TF-888-234-1267

TTY-651-695-5802 TF-866-535-8239 F-612-861-6050 F-651-379-5803 F-651-224-7249 F-612-788-8577 TTY-651-227-3779 TTY-651-365-3736 F-651-789-9960 F-612-729-7382 F-651-772-4352 F-651-999-8242 F-952-925-6055 F-612-331-2887 F-952-746-6209 F-651-686-0312 F-763-786-0008 F-651-489-0410 TF-800-976-6728

www.allypeoplesolutions.org www.chrestomathyinc.org www.cipmn.org www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny www.dungarvin.com www.esrworks.org www.equipalife.org www.fraser.org www.goodwilleasterseals.org www.kaposia.com www.lifetrack-mn.org www.lifetrack-mn.org www.lifeworks.org www.merrickinc.org www.metroworkcenter.org www.mwsservices.org www.mdi.org www.oppserv.org www.partnershipresources.org www.partnershipresources.org www.partnershipresources.org www.proactinc.org www.rise.org www.tse-inc.org www.mnworkincentives.com

GOVERNMENT Minnesota State Council on Disability MN Gov. Council on Developmental Disabilities STAR Program

www.disability.state.mn.us www.mncdd.org www.starprogram.state.mn.us

HEALTH CARE COORDINATION AXIS Healthcare

V-612-262-8800

F-612-262-8801

www.axishealth.com

TF-888-562-8000 V-800-266-2157 V-800-707-1711

TTY-800-627-3529 TTY-800-855-2880 TTY-800-688-2534

V—763-502-1505 V-763-546-1000 V-763-754-2505 V-763-586-0049 V-952-474-5974

F-763-502-6777 F-763-546-1018 TF-888-255-6400 F-651-234-0864 F-952-474-3652

www.breakthrucare.com www.inhomepersonalcare.com www.marytinc.com www.pepeople.org www.rollingacreshomehealth.org

V-763-754-2505

TF-888-255-6400

www.marytinc.com

HEALTH CARE PLANS Cornerstone Solutions Medica UCare

www.cornerstone-solutions.org www.medica.com www.ucare.org

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES Break-Thru Home Care, Inc. In Home Personal Care Mary T. Inc. Home Health Care People Enhancing People (PEP) Rolling Acres Home Health

HOSPICE CARE Mary T. Inc. Human Services Programs

HOUSING-CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING

Kent Fordyce

Kent’s Accounting Service, LLC

Certified QuickBooks Online Certified ProAdvisor 2015 2005-2014 6371 Bartlett Blvd, Mound, MN 55364

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

AccessAbility Options, Inc. Accessibility Design Accessible Homes, LLC. Beyond Barriers Minneapolis Equal Access Homes, Inc. Equip A Life (formerly Assistive Techology of MN)

V-763-571-6789 V-952-925-0301 V-612-978-1054 V-651-462-3444 V-651-249-7751 V-763-479-8239

F-800-632-0798 F-952-926-7712 F-651-554-3085 TF-800-561-2223 F-651-450-1330 Hibbing-218-741-9134

V-651-645-7271 V-651-699-6050 V-612-879-2233 V-612-522-2500

TTY-800-466-7722 TTY-651-695-5802 TTY-612-879-8889 F-612-521-1577

www.accessoptionsmn.com www.accessibilitydesign.com www.accessiblehomesllc.net www.beyondbarriers.com www.EqualAccessHomes.com www.equipalife.org

HOUSING-RENTAL Accessible Space, Inc. (ASI) Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC Ebenezer Park Apartments HousingLink

CONTINUED

www.accessiblespace.org www.dungarvin.com www.fairviewebenezer.org www.housinglink.org

October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10

Pg 9

HOUSING-RENTAL (continued) National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc Villas and Townhomes by Mary T. Inc.

V-651-639-9799 V-763-754-2505

F-651-639-9699 TF-888-255-6400

www.nhhiaccessiblehousing.com www.marytinc.com

INFORMATION AND REFERRAL RESOURCES ADA Minnesota; a program within MCIL Equip A Life (formerly Assistive Techology of MN) Minnesota State Council on Disability PACER Center, Inc. STAR Program United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota

V-651-603-2015 V-763-479-8239 V/TTY-651-361-7800 V-952-838-9000 V-651-201-2640 V-651-265-7361

TF-888-630-9793 TF-866-535-8239 TTY-800-945-8913 TTY-952-838-0190 TF-888-234-1267 F-651-628-4484

www.adaminnesota.org www.equipalife.org www.disability.state.mn.us www.pacer.org www.starprogram.state.mn.us www.ucpmn.org

V-651-294-0710

TF-800-886-7201

F-651-644-9137

V-612-334-5970

TF-800-292-4150

www.mndlc.org

INSURANCE Lee F. Murphy Insurance Group

LEGAL MN Disability Law Center

MEDICAL SUPPLIES/EQUIPMENT Handi Medical Supply HME Medical Shop Phoenix Medical Services Inc.

V-651-644-9770 V-800-258-6313 V-651-636-0848

F-651-644-0602

V-612-362-4434 V-651-699-6050 V-612-767-5180 V-651-227-8471 V-952-401-4868 V-651-645-2948 V/TTY-763-479-3555

V-612-362-4452 TTY-651-695-5802 F-612-861-6050 TTY-651-227-3779 F-952-474-3652 TF-888-NAMI-Helps F-763-479-2605

V-715-268-0175

TTY-715-268-0177

F-651-636-5746

www.handimedical.com www.hmemedicalshop.com www.PhoenixMedical.org

MENTAL HEALTH Community Involvement Programs (CIP) Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC Fraser Lifetrack Resources - St. Paul Mt. Olivet Rolling Acres National Alliance on Mental Illness of MN Vinland National Center

www.cipmn.org www.dungarvin.com www.fraser.org www.lifetrackresources.org www.mtolivetrollingacres.org www.namihelps.org www.vinlandcenter.org

PHYSICIANS Wound Healing Center

www.AmeryMedicalCenter.org

RECREATION-ADAPTIVE HOBBY/EXERCISE/SPORTS/ARTS Adaptive Learning Success Capable Partners Inc. Community Education Network on Disabilities Courage Kenny Rehabilition Institute Drama Interaction, 501(c)3 Mind Body Solutions Mixed Blood Theatre Company Simply ArtAble (formerly Simply Jane) Upstream Arts

V-763-639-9176 V-763-439-1038 V-651-748-7437 V-612-775-2277 V-952-220-1676 V-952-473-3700 V-612-338-6131 V-612-354-3961 V-612-331-4584

www.adaptivelearningsuccess.com www.capablepartners.org www.CENDMN.org 218-726-4762 www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny www.cokartscenter.com/opportunitypartnersprog.html www.mindbodysolutions.org www.mixedblood.com www.simplyjanestudio.com F-612-353-6638 www.upstreamarts.org

RECREATION-TRAVEL/CAMPING Camp Character Camp Winnebago Hammer Travel True Friends Ventures Travel Wilderness Inquiry

V-218-760-8442 V-507-724-2351 V-952-277-2458 V-952-852-0101 V-952-852-0107 V-612-676-9400

F-507-724-3786 TF-877-345-8599 TF-800-450-8376 TF-866-692-7400 TF-800-728-0719

info@familyfoundationsmn.com www.campwinnebago.org www.HammerTravel.org www.truefriends.org www.venturestravel.org www.wildernessinquiry.org

REHABILITATION (Physical, Occupational, Speech, Audiology Therapists) Courage Kenny Rehabilition Institute DeafBlind Services Minnesota (DBSM) Fraser Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare In Home Personal Care Lifetrack Resources - St. Paul

V-763-588-0811 V-612-362-8454 V-612-767-5180 V-651-291-2848 V-763-546-1000 V-651-227-8471

V-612-262-7979 TTY-612-362-8422 F-612-861-6050 TF-800-719-4040 F-763-546-1018 TTY-651-227-3779

www.allinahealth.org/couragekenny www.dbsm.org www.fraser.org www.gillettechildrens.org www.inhomepersonalcare.com www.lifetrackresources.org

RESIDENTIAL/GROUP HOME PROGRAMS Community Involvement Programs (CIP) Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC Enrich inc.

Fraser Living Well Disability Services Lutheran Social Service of MN - Brainerd Lutheran Social Service of MN - St. Paul Mary T. Inc. Human Services Programs

V-612-362-4403 V-651-699-6050 V-651-470-6204 V-612-767-5180.

V-651-9688-8808 V-218-829-9214 V-651-642-5990 V-763-754-2505

V-612-362-4417 TTY-651-695-5802 tom@enrichinc.com F-612-861-6050 F-651-688-8892 F-218-829-9726 TF-800-582-5260 TF-888-255-6400

CONTINUED

www.cipmn.org www.dungarvin.com www.enrichinc.com www.fraser.org www.livingwell.org www.lssmn.org www.lssmn.org www.marytinc.com

SAVE THE DATE! 2015 Charlie Smith Award Banquet Friday, November 6, 2015 For more information: (651) 644-2133 or access@accesspress.org Location: Minneapolis Airport Marriott, 2020 East American Blvd. Time: 5:30 to 9:00 pm

tĞ͛ƌĞ ĂůƌĞĂĚLJ planning the 2015 Charlie Smith Award Banquet. Come join us on November 6, 2015!

Pg 10 October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10

RESIDENTIAL/GROUP HOME PROGRAMS (continued) Mt. Olivet Rolling Acres Phoenix Residence REM Minnesota Restart, Inc. Wingspan Life Resources

V-952-474-5974 V-651-227-7655 V-952-945-4952 V-952-767-3350 V-651-644-2665x100

F-952-474-3652 F-651-227-6847 F-952-922-6885 F-952-767-3351 V-651-646-3846

www.mtolivetrollingacres.org www.phoenixresidence.org www.remminnesota.org www.restartincmn.org ww.wingspanlife.org

F-763-331-3009 F-952-988-9296 V-952-226-2063

www.can-do-canines.org www.helpingpaws.org www.PawPADS.org

SERVICE ANIMALS Can Do Canines V-763-331-3000 Helping Paws, Inc. V-952-988-9359 Pawsitive Perspectives Assistance Dogs (PawPADs)

SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES Bethel Healthcare Community Ebenezer Care Center

V-651-224-2368 V-612-879-2262

F-651-224-1014 TTY-612-879-8889

V-952-767-3350

F-952-767-3351

V-763-479-8239 V-651-291-2848 V-763-754-2505 V-952-838-9000 V-651-201-2640

TF-866-535-8239 TF-800-719-4040 TF-888-255-6400 TTY-952-838-0190 TF-888-234-1267

www.welcov.com www.fairviewebenezer.org

SOCIAL SERVICES Restart, Inc.

www.restartincmn.org

TECHNOLOGY Equip A Life (formerly Assistive Techology of MN) Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare Mary T. Assistive Technology PACER Center, Inc. STAR Program

www.equipalife.org www.gillettechildrens.org www.marytinc.com www.pacer.org www.starprogram.state.mn.us

TRANSPORTATION RENTAL/SALES/MODIFICATION IMED Mobility

V-651-635-0655

TF-800-788-7479

V-612-871-2222 V-763-544-2880

F-612-872-0189 F-763-544-3612

V-612-262-8800 V-651-699-6050 V-763-479-8239 V-612-767-5180

F-612-262-8801 TTY-651-695-5802 Hibbing-218-741-9134 F-612-861-6050

www.imedmobility.com

VISION IMPAIRMENT Vision Loss Resources Volunteer Braille Services

www.visionlossresources.org www.vbsmn.org

WAIVER CASE MANAGEMENT AXIS Healthcare Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC Equip A Life (formerly Assistive Techology of MN) Fraser

www.axishealth.com www.dungarvin.com www.equipalife.org www.fraser.org

October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10 Pg 11

Employment is focus of events

ACCESSIBLE FUN Starlight Ball The annual Vision Loss Resources Starlight Ball is 6 p.m.

Sat, Nov. 7 at the Mpls Marriott Northwest, Brooklyn Center.

Tickets are $100. Enjoy a social hour, dinner, hands-on activities, demonstrations, the band Boogie Wonderland and more while raising funds for Vision Loss Resources.

FFI: Iris, 612-843-3425, http://visionlossresources.org

ADA Retrospective Performances Artists of all abilities share their work in two shows Sat, Oct. 17, one family-friendly and the other for a mature audience, at Northfield Arts Guild, 304 Division St., Northfield. AD and ASL offered 2-4 p.m. Sat, Oct. 17 for the family-friendly show and 7:30-9:30 p.m. for the mature audiences show. Access accommodations, such as assistive listening devices and large print programs will be available. A small portion of event tickets may be purchased ahead of time for guaranteed admission, but most tickets will be available at no-cost or pay what one can at the door. The box office will open one hour prior to each performance. No reservations are necessary.

FFI: 507-645-8877, www.northfieldartsguild.org

Sister Calling My Name Open Window Theater presents the story of a sister with developmental disabilities who reunites with her brother after many years, at Open Window Theatre (Metropolis Minneapolis Building), 1313 Chestnut Ave., St. 102, Mpls. Playwright Buzz McLaughlin grew up in Le Sueur and won a National Play Award for the play. He will attend three performances and discuss the play with the audience Sat. Oct. 17. Shows are Oct. 16-Nov. 1, 7:45 p.m. Thu – Sat (except Oct. 31) and 1:30 p.m. Sun, with added shows 1:30 p.m. Sat. Oct. 17, 24 and 31; 10:30 a.m. Wed, Oct. 21 and 28, and 7:45 p.m. Sun, Nov. 1. Tickets in advance adults $26; seniors/students/ clergy/military $22; children 4-6 yrs. $16. At the door, adults $30; seniors/students/clergy/military $26; children 4-6 yrs. $20. Student rush $10. Pay-As-You’reAble: Thu at the door ($1 minimum) for any unsold tickets. FFI: www.openwindowtheatre.org/

Outside Mullingar Commonweal Theatre Company presents the story of eccentric Irish neighbors, at Commonweal Theatre, 208 Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro. AD offered 1:30 p.m. Sun, Oct. 18, with pre-show at 1:10 pm. AD reservations required at least one week in advance, noting if a tactile tour is wanted at noon. Two-week notice requested for a Braille program. Five-week notice requested for ASL interpreting. Assistive listening devices available at the box office; special seating available for persons with mobility issues. Tickets reduced to $15 for AD/ASL patrons (regular $30; student $15). FFI: 507-467-2525 or 800-657-7025, www.commonwealtheatre.org

The Miracle Worker Minnesota State University, Mankato presents the story of Helen Keller and teacher Annie Sullivan, at Andreas Theater, Minnesota State University, Performing

Highlighting employment and resources for people with disabilities is the focus of the interactive, statewide Employment Dialogue and Resource Fair 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wed, Oct. 28 at Ramsey County Conference Center, 121 E. 7th Place, St. Paul. This is a change in location from the Minneapolis Convention Center.

The Minnesota State Council on Disability (MSCOD), the Minnesota Business Leadership Network and the Minnesota Spinal Cord Injury Association are cohosts.

The day’s activities are free but pre- registration is requested, at http://tinyurl.com/ADA-25yrs-event The statewide portion of the event will be produced and televised by Twin Cities Public Television. It features retired U.S. Senator Tom Harkin; the Senate sponsor of the Americans with Disabilities Act – along with Minnesota policy makers, employers, job seekers and employees. Minnesotans statewide can attend local gatherings and take part, in engaging employers who may not understand the process and the value of hiring people with disabilities and to advance employment opportunities and resource knowledge base for job seekers.

In St. Paul, the business leadership group hosts a career fair. The spinal cord injury group will host a resource vendor fair. Performers and artists with disabilities will provide entertainment. Lunch will be available for those who have registered in advance.

“We want to begin a conversation about how to move the dial toward getting more people with disabilities hired in Minnesota,” said Joan Willshire, executive director of MSCOD.

“Our goal as an organization is to have qualified candidates with disabilities engage in the event and to network with member employers and others employers throughout Minnesota who are continuously looking to diversify their workforce and hire qualified individuals,” said Ann Macheledt, chairperson of the business leadership group.

“This event, being held during the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, allows us to continue the discussion about where we are today and further our vision for the future,” said Macheledt.

The group offers participating employers resources for recruiting candidates with disabilities, information on disability issues/topics, recognition for best disability employment practices and exposure to an untapped market for goods and services The spinal cord injury group offers paths to education, advocacy, and networking for Minnesotans who have been impacted by spinal cord injury or other causes of paralysis.

Many people mistakenly assume that people with disabilities will add cost and complexity to the workplace.

According to the Office of Disability Employment Policy of the U.S. Department of Labor, it’s just the opposite.

Businesses actually gain a competitive edge when they include people with disabilities in their labor pools.

For more information or to access a schedule of times and events, visit www.mscod25ada.com or call MSCOD at 651-361-7809. ■

Art Center, 320 Maywood, Mankato. AD offered 4 p.m.

Sun, Oct. 18, sensory tour at 1 p.m. Tickets $16. FFI: 507-389-6661, www.mnsu.edu/theatre/

ing off Cedar Street; the theater has six spaces for wheelchairs, plus companion seats; hearing enhancement devices and Braille or large print playbills are available. FFI: 651-292-4323, www.historytheatre.com

An Octoroon Mixed Blood Theatre presents a statement on race, at Alan Page Auditorium at Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S. 4th St., Mpls. All performances Oct. 16 – Nov. 15 captioned with supertitles. AD and ASL offered 7:30 p.m.

Thurs. Oct. 22. Audience members with access needs may call the box office to use MBT’s free round-trip cab service. For tickets choose between free on a firstcome, first-served basis, reservations online or by phone ($20). FFI: 612-338-6131, www.mixedblood.com

Title IX Theatre Unbound presents the story of a girl struggling to keep her spot on the track team, with performances Oct. 9-11 at Dreamland Arts, 677 Hamline Ave. N., St. Paul and Oct. 16-18 at Intermedia Arts, 2822 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. AD offered 3 p.m. Sat, Oct. 17.

Tickets $14; VSA patrons $10 with online code VSAMN. FFI: 612-721-1186, www.theatreunbound.com

Glensheen History Theatre presents the story of one of Minnesota’s most shocking murders, at History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. ASL and AD offered 2 p.m. Sun, Oct. 18. Captioning offered 2 p.m. Sun, Oct. 25. Tickets reduced to $20 for ASL/AD patrons (regular $30-45).

The accessible entrance is on the east side of the build-

People Incorporated’s Artability Art Show & Sale People Incorporated presents its art show and sale at the Great Hall, 180 E. 5th St., St. Paul 55101. Free admission. Show hours are 5-9 p.m. Fri, Oct. 23 and 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sat, Oct. 24. FFI: 651-288-3532, www. peopleincorporated.org/event/artability-art-show-sale

The Events The Guthrie Theater’s WorldStage Series presents a touring company production about compassion in the wake of violence, at Guthrie Theater, McGuire Proscenium Stage, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. ASL and AD offered 7:30 p.m. Fri. Oct. 23 and 1 p.m. Sat. Oct. 31. Captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Fri, Oct. 23; 1 p.m. Sat, Oct. 24 and 1 p.m. Wed, Oct. 28. Tickets reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for captioning (regular $34-85). FFI: 612377-2224, www.guthrietheater.org/visit/access_services

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs GREAT Children’s Theatre presents the fairy tale at Paramount Theatre, 913 St. Germain St. W., St. Cloud.

ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Oct. 25. Tickets $14-19. FFI: 320-259-5463, www.GreatTheatre.org

One Grain of Rice SteppingStone Theatre presents a children’s story with a powerful message, at SteppingStone Theatre for Youth Development, 55 Victoria St. N., St. Paul. AD offered 7 p.m.

Fri, Oct. 30. ASL show is 3 p.m. Sun, Nov. 1. Tickets reduced to $10 access rate (regular $16; youth/senior 55+ $12). FFI: 651-225-9265; www.steppingstonetheatre.org

The Jungle Book Children’s Theatre Company presents Rudyard Kipling’s story, at Children’s Theatre Co. Cargill Stage, 2400 Third Ave. S., Mpls. AD and ASL offered 7 p.m.

Fri, Oct. 30. Sensory friendly show 7 p.m. Fri, Nov. 13.

Tickets (regular $16-40); Assistive listening devices, induction loop system, Braille programs and sensory tours available upon request. Senior, college student, military, other discounts available. FFIU: 612-874-0400; www.childrenstheatre.org

Book Launch Party for QDA The book’s launch is celebrated at a free party with writers D. Allen, David Cummer, Arthur Durkee, Raymond Luczak, Lucas Scheelk, and Nola Weber, at 7 p.m. Sat, Nov. 7 at Patrick’s Cabaret, 3010 Minnehaha Ave., Mpls. ASL offered.

Tactile interpreting or audio description requests were due Oct. 9; check for availability by contacting QDAeditor@gmail. com FFI: www.squaresandrebels.com/events/index.html

A Thousand Clowns Theatre in the Round Players presents the story of a carefree uncle raising his nephew, at Theatre in the Round, 245 Cedar Ave., Mpls. AD offered 2 p.m. Sun, Nov. 8. Tickets $22. Discounts available Fri and Sun for students (with ID) and seniors (62+). FFI: 612-333-3010, www.theatreintheround.org

A Hunting Shack Christmas Yellow Tree Theatre presents a family comedy cen-

Accessible fun- p. 13

Pg 12 October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10 Networking groups provide support

UPCOMING EVENTS Advocacy Influence decision-making A new opportunity to influence transportation decision-making is available. In January 2016, the District Councils Collaborative of St. Paul and Minneapolis and the Olmstead Implementation Office in collaboration with veteran community organizer Rick Cardenas offer Leading in Transportation Access, a six-session training including classroom talks and knowledge sharing as well as community field trips. Learn about increasing accessibility through ADA compliance, being heard on boards and advisory groups, and using personal experiences to change transportation policies and projects. Up to 10 people will be selected. Applications due Fri, Dec. 4. Accommodation will be made to submit a verbal application. A small educational stipend will be available to participants. Elders and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Funded by Community Innovation Grant Program, a partnership of Headwaters Foundation for Justice and the Bush Foundation, with inkind support from the Olmstead Implementation Office. FFI: Rick Cardenas, 651-224-5279, rgcardenas5279@gmail.com Representatives needed The State Rehabilitation Council needs applicants to represent vocational rehabilitation participants, disability advocates and business, industry or labor. Members come from across the state and are appointed by Gov. Mark Dayton, to help shape vocational rehabilitation policy and spearhead customer satisfaction and effectiveness studies. Members assist with statewide needs assessments, participate in strategic planning, help with statewide planning and advocate at the federal and state levels for program dollars and changes in policy. FFI: Gail Lundeen, 651-259-7364, gail.lundeen@state.mn.us A Working Life Time is running out to register for the Arc Minnesota’s state conference, A Working Life. Registration deadline is Mon, Oct. 12.

Don’t miss workshops, presentations and time for one-on-one assistance throughout the day. Meet the Minnesota Association for People Supporting Employment First to discuss a self-advocate’s employment search. Staff from the Disability Benefits 101 (DB 101) will look at individual situations and see how work would affect assistance received from state and federal supports. FFI: www.arcmn.org Committee member sought St. Paul city officials need a disability community representative for the Planning Commission Transportation Committee, Applications are due by Fri, Oct. 23. FFI: 651-2666617, www.stpaul.gov/index.aspx?NID=550 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 Calhoun Harriet Master Plan The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is working on a plan for Lake Calhoun and Lake Harriet that will guide investments in these parks over the next 25 years. Input is needed to make the parks more welcoming and accessible? What ac-

tivities should be at the parks? Are there issues or problems? A Community Advisory Committee has met since July to guide preparation of the master plan. A preferred concept will be released Tue, Oct. 27. Comments are needed before the plan is finished. FFI: Deborah Bartels, 612-230-6438

Youth and families 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.

Everything You Need to Learn Before Your Child Turns Three is a free workshop for parents of young children with disabilities, 9-11 a.m. Sat, Oct. 17 at PACER Center.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires states to provide certain services to eligible children with disabilities.

The ABCs of the IEP: A Guide for Minnesota Parents to the Individualized Education Program (IEP) is free workshop for parents of children with disabilities and for professionals, 6:30-9 p.m. Wed, Oct. 21 at Waconia Senior High School (Room D110), 1400 Community Dr., Waconia. Learn how to use the IEP to meet a child’s needs. FFI: PACER at 952-838-9000. In Greater Minnesota, call 800-537-2237 (toll free), www.pacer.org Parents’ support group National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota provides support groups for parents of children with mental illnesses. Resources to meet the challenges of raising a child living with a mental illness, coping and problem-solving skills are discussed. Groups are facilitated by a parent who has a child with a mental illness. A new group starts 6:30-8 p.m. Mon, Oct. 12 at Eagle Brook Church, 2401 E. Buffalo St., White Bear Lake. FFI: Jody Lyons, 651-645-2948 x109

Information/assistance 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 612-2535155, www.visionlossresources.org MCIL offers classes and 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 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: 651-647-1083 ext. 10, www.ausm.org UCare meetings UCare hosts informational meetings

Long before formal disability organizations, families of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities met in living rooms and over kitchen tables to support one another, share information and overcome obstacles. Find that kind of connection and support today in the 15 networking groups from The Arc Greater Twin Cities. All groups are free and meet monthly. Most are led by parents of children with disabilities, who have first-hand knowledge and experience with the issues that parents face.

General groups welcome parents of children with all kind of intellectual and developmental disabilities and address a wide variety of issues. Others focus on a specific disability, such as autism or Down syndrome. Some are for cultural communities, such as Spanish-speaking parents, or have a specific topic area, such as education.

One of the groups, Dads with Kids with Special Needs, is just for fathers. It meets on the second Monday of the month from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. so dads can be home for Monday night football. The group is co-facilitated by Don Nikkola and Steve Roecklein. “I went to an Arc forum for fathers of kids with disabilities, and it prompted me to think of starting a networking group for fathers,” Nikkola said.

“It’s a forum where dads can talk about 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. A NAMI Connection peer support group for adults recovering from mental illness meets 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Wed, at Centennial Methodist Church, 1524 Co. Rd. C-2 West (Snelling

Don Nikkola and Steve Roecklein how they’re doing, how their child is doing and how their family is doing with respect to many issues. It’s very empowering to see how these dads share and grow.”

“Fathers of kids with special needs can feel pretty alone. We want to acknowledge the importance of fathers and give them a place to talk about their struggles,” said Roecklein. “In our group, fathers can share what’s happening with their child and how they’re dealing with it, and get feedback from other dads.

They support each other, and that supports the growth of their family.”

A full groups list can be found at The Arc Greater Twin Cities’ website at www.arcgreat ertwincities.org/networking-groups.aspx.

Parents who would like to start a new group in their area can also contact The Arc. FFI: 952-920-0855, info@thearcgtc.org at Co. Rd. C-2), Roseville. FFI: 651-6452948. 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. The partners and spouses support group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at Falcon Heights United Church of Christ, 1795 Holton Street (Holton & Garden). For more information, call Melissa at 651-354-0825.A full calendar of all events is offered online.

FFI: 651-645-2948, www.namihelps.org ■

Regional News: DART - from p. 6 peated requests for vehicle repairs and maintenance were deferred or ignored by higher-ups in the organization.

Former DARTS President Greg Konat and Subramanian “Kris” Krishnan, DARTS chief strategy and operations officer, are accused of ignoring the concerns. Houle got to the point that he was marking buses as “Do not operate.”

But he claims that buses in poor condition continued to carry passengers.

Houle said he then informed Metropolitan Council staff about the problems during the 2014 audit.

This is the second lawsuit filed against DART. In November 2014 two other former DART officials said they too were fired for raising safety concerns. Current DARTS officials have denied the claims. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10 Pg 13

Gov. Mark Dayton, Attorney General Lori Swanson and retired Major General Harry A. Sieben joined members of the public and Carpenters Union representatives September 13 at a dedication ceremony held in honor of a new wheelchair-accessible shooting dock specifically designed to accommodate disabled veterans. The ceremony was part of the Car-

penters Annual Shotgun Tune-Up at the Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club in Prior Lake. The ceremony launched a day of shooting sporting clays to raise money for Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors, Pheasants Forever, and the Youth Hunting Club of Minnesota.

Union members who frequent the club recognized that almost all of the existing shooting stations were inaccessible to military veterans with disabilities, so they decided to do something about it. They found willing partners in the Horse and Hunt Club’s management.

The dock was built by union volunteers. They used materials donated by more than a dozen construction companies. The result is a five-stand shooting station duck tower wide enough to safely and easily accommodate persons in wheelchairs.

“I want to thank and congratulate all of the union volunteers that made this project possible,” said John Raines, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters. “They saw a problem and knew they had the skills to fix it.

It’s a great tribute to the men and women who have put their bodies on the line to defend our freedom.”

“This partnership between the Carpenters Union, various construction companies, and our facility will mean that our wounded heroes will be able to enjoy outdoor shooting sports along with all of our community,” said Randy Travalia, co-owner of the Horse and Hunt Club. ■

Grants assist two programs

Eken honored by ARRM

Two Twin Cities programs that serve people who are deaf, hard of hearing or deafblind have each received a $500,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).

DEED’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services unit awarded one of the grants to the Minnesota Employment Center for People Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (MEC), a program that is managed by Spring Lake Park-based Rise Inc. and Lifetrack Resources of St. Paul. The funding will help the program provide ongoing employment services statewide.

For 22 years, MEC has been delivering long-term support services in the metro area. The program provides clients with free on-the-job training and works with employers and employees for successful job placements.

The second grant went to the Vocational Education Community Training and Occupational Relations (VECTOR) Program, which is managed by Independent School District 287 in Brooklyn Park. The funding will provide school-based communication, access and employment services.

The VECTOR Program provides transition services to young adults ages 18 to 21 with disabilities as they progress from an educational setting toward living and working as independently as possible in the community.

DEED is the state’s principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade and community development. The grant program was approved by the 2015 Minnesota Legislature. Grants are for work through June 30, 2016 and are renewable for a second year, pending program outcomes. Vocational Rehabilitation Services will oversee the grants. ■

The Association of Residential Resources in Minnesota (ARRM) honored Sen. Kent Eken (DFL – Twin Valley) with its 2015 ARRM Leadership Award September 24. The presentation at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge recognized Eken for his ongoing dedication to supporting people with disabilities across the state. The ARRM Leadership Award was created more than a decade ago to recognize innovative leaders whose advocacy work has significantly impacted Minnesotans with disabilities. More than 200 people were on hand for the presentation.

ARRM CEO Bruce Nelson praised Eken for his strategic legislative efforts including rate reform and authorship of The 5% Campaign’s Senate bills in 2014 and 2015. Eken’s strong advocacy was instrumental in securing a five percent rate increase for Home and Community-Based Services in 2014; these essential services support 90,000 people with disabilities and older adults in Minnesota. The bill helped address a crisis, with the bulk of the funds going to underpaid direct care workers.

“I got involved in politics to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Strong unity is so vital to our success,” said Eken. He urged disability providers in attendance to continue advocating for needed reform and funding by telling their personal stories to legislators and Gov. Mark Dayton during the 2016 session. “A lot of people don’t realize the severity of the workforce crisis we are in. Surpluses give us the opportunity to make up for cuts to Home and Community-Based Services in the past.”

ARRM is a nonprofit association of more than 200 Minnesotan providers, businesses and advocates dedicated to leading the advancement of communitybased services that support people living with disabilities in their pursuit of meaningful lives. ■

PEOPLE & PLACES

Gov. Mark Dayton and Major General Harry A. Sieben Courtesy photo

Hunting accommodations unveiled

Wood receives national award Jean Wood, executive director of the Minnesota Board on Aging and director of the Aging and Adult Services Division, Minnesota Department of Human Services, has received national recognition. At the National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities (NASUAD) annual conference in September, Wood Jean Wood was presented with the association’s first-ever Executive Director’s Award.

Wood was recognized for outstanding leadership nationally and her commitment to NASUAD, first as a staff member and then as a long-standing member of its board of directors. Her leadership is credited for helping the association evolve and expand its membership to include disability service groups as well as those serving elders.

“As one of the most tenured state officials on aging programming, Jean has served as a national expert, a peer mentor, and a voice of reason on many issues,” said Martha Roherty, NASUAD executive director.

“I am certain that without her consistency and strength on the NASUAD board, our association could not have achieved the level of success we have.”

NASUAD represents the nation’s 56 state and territorial agencies on aging and disabilities and supports visionary state leadership, the advancement of state systems innovation and the articulation of national policies that support home and community-based services for older adults and individuals with disabilities.

Wood began serving in her current position in 2006. She had working in other aging-related positions in the Minnesota Department of Human Services since 1993. She earlier served with NASUAD and was a state long-term care ombudsman in Ohio.

Wood, who will retire at the end of 2015, also recently received the Dutch Kastenbaum Outstanding Gerontology Award from the Minnesota Gerontology Society. She is a resident of Excelsior. ■ Accessible Fun - from p. 11 tered on a crowded hunting shack, at Yellow Tree Theatre, 320 5th Ave. SE, Osseo. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Nov. 22. Tickets $22, reservations must be made by Wed, Nov. 18; phone: 763-493-8733; boxoffice@yellow treetheatre.com Website: www.yellowtreetheatre.com

Christmas in the Airwaves Lyric Arts Company of Anoka presents a wartime story, at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Nov. 22. Lyric Arts reserves Rows H and I for parties including persons using wheelchairs or with limited mobility. ASL interpreters are provided at the first Sun performance of each regular season production.

A limited number of seats near the interpreters are held in reserve for ASL patrons until two weeks prior to the performance. Any ASL seats left unreserved are released to the general public. If no ASL seating has been reserved two weeks before the show, the ASL interpretation will be canceled. When ordering tickets, please indicate the need for seating in this section. Tickets $15-32; $5 discount for ASL seats. FFI: 763-422-1838, www.lyricarts.org

A Christmas Carol Guthrie Theater presents Charles Dickens’ popular Christmas tale, at Guthrie Theater Wurtele Thrust Stage, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. ASL offered 1 p.m. Sat. Nov. 28. AD offered 1 p.m. Sat. Nov. 28 and 7:30 p.m.

Wed. Dec. 2. Captioning offered 1 p.m. Sun. Nov. 29 and 7:30 p.m. Wed. Dec. 2. Tickets reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for captioning (regular $34-85). FFI: 612377-2224, www.guthrietheater.org/visit/access_services

Ecosystem, Show Us Your World The Show Art Gallery, 253 E. 4th St., #100, St. Paul displays works by artists from all walks of life, including artists with disabilities, in a cooperatively run gallery, retail store and community space in Lowertown. This art show focuses on artwork that celebrates intricacies within the scope of an artist’s habitat, network or ecosystem — elements that artists are exploring through their art that are necessary to thrive. Hours: Wed.-Thurs.-Fri. 11 a.m. -6 p.m. (First Fri until 9 p.m.), Sat. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Ecosystem, Show Us Your World exhibit is up through October.

Free. FFI: 651-419–8022, www.theshowartgallery.org ■

Pg 14 October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10

Radio Talking Book October Sampling Books with Minnesota Connections This month Radio Talking Book is airing two Native American-themed books with Minnesota connections.

Northern Slave, Black Dakota, the book airing on The U.S. and Us, is about a black slave, Joseph Godfrey, who escaped his owners to live among the Dakota.

Godfrey was among the Dakota warriors in the U.S. Dakota War of 1862.

The other book is on Bookworm, airing at 11 a.m., beginning Oct. 12. The Road to Sweetgrass, written by Linda LeGarde Grover, a member of the Bois Forte Band of Minnesota Chippewa. Grover teaches at the University of Minnesota, Duluth.

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 1800-722-0550, 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.

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.

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

Equal Opportunity Housing.

Find your new home with At Home Apartments.

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

Equal Opportunity Housing.

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.

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

Supreme Commander, Nonfiction by Seymour Morris, Jr., 2014. 13 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 21. As the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers, MacArthur was charged with transforming a defeated militarist empire into a beacon of peace and democracy. A career military man, MacArthur had no experience in politics, diplomacy, or economics, yet he did it brilliantly.

Read by Art Nyhus.

Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

The Road Back to Sweetgrass, Fiction by Linda LeGarde Grover, 2014. Seven broadcasts. Begins Oct. 12.

Dale Ann, Theresa, and Margie are American Indian women, coming of age in the 1970s. They navigate love, economic hardship, loss, and changing family dynamics on the Mozhay Point reservation. When Theresa meets Michael Washington, he introduces her to his father Zho Wash, and the three women begin looking at their people’s history. L - Read by Michele Potts.

Senseless Acts of Beauty, Fiction by Lisa Virge Higgins, 2015. 10 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 21. Fourteen-year-old Sadie Winter’s only clue to the identity of her birth mother is a towel with a camp logo. Determined to find her, she sets off for that camp. Her mother, Tess Hendrick, has kept tabs on her and realizes she probably has gone to that camp to find her.

She wants to protect her daughter from knowing that she was conceived through rape. Meanwhile, DNA tests have identified the rapist and his name and address were shared with Tess. Read by Rachael Freed.

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

Unstill Life, Nonfiction by Gabrielle Selz, 2014. Nine broadcasts. Begins Oct. 20. Gabrielle’s father was known to the art world as Mr. Modern Art, leaving her to grow up in a home full of the most celebrated artists of the day. Like the art he loved, he was vibrant and freewheeling but his enthusiasm for women and art took its toll. L, S - Read by June Prange.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

Rebel Queen, Fiction by Michelle Moran, 2015. 12 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 22. When Britain sets its sights on India in the mid-nineteenth century, it expects a quick and easy conquest. But when English soldiers ar-

rive in the kingdom of Jhansi, they’re met with a surprising challenge: Queen Lakshmi and her armies. Read by Judith Johannessen.

PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

Speak Now, Nonfiction by Kenji Yoshino, 2015. 12 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 19. The 2012 Hollingsworth v.

Perry trial in California was a landmark civil rights trial.

It legalized same-sex marriage in our most populous state, but in the process, it did so much more. Read by Mike Piscitelli.

Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

A Good Killing, Fiction by Allison Leotta, 2015. 10 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 19. Anna Curtis returns to her Michigan home town where the high school coach was killed in a car crash. Her sister, Jody, is accused of murdering him. But maybe her sister isn’t so innocent after all; police think she was having an affair with the coach and killed him out of jealousy. V, L, S - Read by Pat Kovel-Jarboe.

Off the Shelf • Monday – Friday 10 p.m.

Bittersweet, Fiction by Miranda Beverly-Whittemore, 2014. 14 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 13. Mabel has been accepted into the sphere of a powerful family. But when she finds out what they had to do to keep their power, she is faced with a difficult question: should she expose their ugliness, or keep their dark secrets and make their world her own? V, L, S – Read by Kristi Sullivan.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 11 p.m.

Future Crimes, Nonfiction by Marc Goodman, 2015.

21 broadcasts. Begins Oct. 12. Technological advances have benefitted our world in immeasurable ways, but our technology can also be turned against us. And with the advances in technology, there will be even greater risks. Read by John Demma.

Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnight Bull Mountain, Fiction by Brian Panowich, 2015. Nine broadcasts. Begins Oct. 26. To distance himself from his family’s criminal empire, Clayton took the job of sheriff to keep the peace. But when a federal agent with the ATF shows up at Clayton’s office with a plan to shut down Bull Mountain, his hidden agenda will pit brother against brother. L - Read by Tom Price.

Weekend Program Books Your Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing Goddesses Never Age, by Christiane Northrup, M.D.; For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing Dodger, by Terry Pratchett; Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing Load Poems Like Guns, translated by Farzana Marie, and You Must Remember This, by Michael Bazzett; The U.S. and Us (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing Northern Slave, Black Dakota, by Walt Bachman.

■

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

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October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10 Pg 15

Olmstead Academy graduates celebrate success

U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank addressed the Olmstead Academy graduates Courtesy photo

by Carol Oyanagi

Self-advocates gathered September 14 at the Warren E. Burger Federal Building in St. Paul, to celebrate successes and share challenges from Olmstead Academy’s pilot year.

The Olmstead Academy, sponsored by Advocating Change Together (ACT), is a 12-month training and fieldwork program on disability integration projects. The academy began in response to Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan for advancing community integration. A second Olmstead Academy class starts in January 2016.

“The leadership that’s come out of this group has just been incredible. We’ve seen a huge commitment of time, energy, and focus,” said Mary Kay Kennedy, program facilitator and executive director of ACT. Judge Donovan Frank welcomed the group. “I don’t think I’ve seen equal justice under law come alive as much as when I look around this room today,” he said.

Self-advocate leaders and allies from six Minnesota regions reported project results. Central Region (Cambridge) leaders Steve Peck and Nathan Miller, and ally Maggie Treichel, hosted a two-day seminar to inform people with disabilities about rights and available resources. Ten people attended.

Eight made life changes resulting in greater inclusion in areas of transportation, housing and jobs. One participant started a business selling eggs and vegetables at farmers’ markets.

The team will follow up offering peer support.

Northeast Region (Duluth) leaders Linda Merkel and Rosemary Hanson, and ally Samantha Thompson worked with a local taxicab company for more spontaneous transportation. Eighteen participants ages 18-65 were given $450 vouchers to use over three months. Participants traveled to shopping, restaurants, emergency appointments and other places without needing to

schedule rides days in advance.

Though vouchers didn’t work for everyone as anticipated, participants reported an increase in people getting out into the community, fewer negative experiences, more confidence handling money, less fear/anxiety traveling alone, more freedom and new relationships established. In one success story a stroke victim and his wife, who is legally blind, went to their favorite restaurant on their anniversary for the first time in six years. The team will seek funding to expand the project.

Southeast Region (Rochester) leader Charlie Applequist and allies Melissa Evans and Cheryl Gardner provided assistance to seven people with personcentered plans for integrated housing and jobs. Participants received assistance to move forward with action steps. One challenge was helping people understand what Olmstead means and the rights they have as persons with disabilities.

The team plans to continue the project and seek dedicated peer mentors and funding.

“Being a peer-mentor is important to me. I want to do good and make a difference,” said Applequist.

Northwest Region (East Grand Forks) leaders James Lee and Patty McGlynn along with 89 people with disabilities participated in three community events. One event centered on making a community garden accessible. Boxes were added, with raised beds promised in 2016. Braille plant identification signs were created. The team also hosted a weekly party for other gardeners.

For the Greater Grand Forks Art Fest, the team’s acting troupe was initially rebuffed.

But the team persevered and its “East Side Greasers” act was well-received and also included audience participation.

For Cat’s Incredible, a fishing contest sponsored by the fire department and Cabela’s, the team set up a fishing game

booth. Four hundred children visited the booth and learned about inclusion.

City officials and organizers for all three events asked the team to return next year.

“Community inclusion works.

In spite of pushback we showed that everybody does belong side by side with others,” said ally Carla Tice.

The Metro Region developed Explore Prepare Act, a training program sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). The program helps people explore integrated job opportunities.

Self-advocates Carol Robinson, Larry Lubbers, Nikki Villavicencio and Ruth Agre served as trainers. Rick Cardenas, Mary Fenske, Nick Wilkie, and Patrick Mitchell were allies. The team discovered that participants needed more time to process changes and overcome internal fears.

Workshops will be expanded for next year. DEED has provided additional funds for seven more trainings.

In February the Southwest Region (Mankato) performed a 75-person play, The Other Side. More than 800 people attended. The team also devel-

oped panel discussion groups for school children entitled Born That Way, Here to Stay.

Both the play and the groups are meant to create awareness about people with disabilities.

Carrie Varner and Nate Clark led the projects along with ally Wilbur Neushwander-Frink and ally/intern Jon Burris. The team also operated a booth at Mankato’s Pride Fest. In 2016 two plays and five panel discussions are planned.” ■ For more information on the 2016 Olmstead Academy, contact the ACT Office at 651-641-0297 or go to www.selfadvocacy.org

Pg 16 October 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 10