November 2015 Edition - Access Press

Arc awards, Pg 7

Volume 26, Number 11

www.accesspress.org

Challenges Part of federal budget Social Security Disability Insurance to union are heard and retirement program to change

by Access Press staff

by Access Press staff

The fight continues over a 2013 state law that allows Minnesota’s 27,000 home health care workers to unionize. Supporters and opponents, along with their clients, filled a St. Paul federal appeals courtroom for back-to-back hearings October 21. Rulings may be several months away.

Judicial panels from the Eighth U. S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard dual challenges to the law as many personal care attendants (PCAs) and their clients looked on. The two legal challenges to the unions were filed by nine Minnesota workers and by the National Right to Work Legal Foundation.

During the hearings on the two lawsuits, panel members questioned whether they had to power to order the union disbanded. Another focus was on the unions’ voluntary nature and the fact that workers aren’t required to join or pay dues. A third line of questioning is whether PCAs should be considered public employees.

The two lawsuits wound up in the federal appeals Challenges to union - p. 4

People who rely on Social Security programs for support are facing changes in the year ahead. Being aware of those changes will be critical for budget planning for both the short-term and long-term.

The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Program, which faced running out of funds in mid-2016, faces cuts in the latest federal budget agreement. But the agreement, which was passed by the U.S. House and Senate in late October and sent to President Barak Obama, spares SSDI from a worse fate.

SSDI became one of many bargaining chips in the budget, as it was the final budget fight between President Barack Obama and Republican leaders in Congress. Had Congress not acted, trustees for the Social Security system had warned that benefits could be cut by as much as 19 to 20 percent.

In 2014 SSDI paid benefits to about nine million workers with disabilities and about two million of their dependents. That total Meaningful work is important to people with disabilities. annual cost in 2014 hit $141 billion.

People who receive Social Security Disability Income Growth in the number of beneficiaries has (SSDI) can work but they need to be mindful of any porisen faster than the collection of payroll taxes in the Social Security trust fund dedi- tential changes to the program.

File photo cated to disability benefits. cial Security’s two trust funds, with more to How to address the SSDI shortfall has been disability and less to the fund for elders and debated for months, in the halls of Congress survivors. That was how Congress addressed and across the nation. A paper released earlier the most recent and major SSDI funding crisis this year by the federal Office of Management back in 1994. and Budget, recommending simply adjusting Social Security Disability Insurance- p. 5 the share of payroll taxes that flows into So-

Fifty years old

ALLY People Solutions knows about change

by Connor Klausing

ALLY People Solutions, has seen a lot of change since its inception 50 years ago when a group of determined mothers set out to change disability services for good. It’s always been part of the historic struggles for the rights of people with developmental disabilities.

ALLY began in 1965 as a parent effort to provide education and socialization to their children with intellectual disabilities. The group has since evolved into a broad network of career and life support services for the 285 adults who now participate in ALLY’s programs.

Not all is work at ALLY People Solutions,. Clients also enjoy a number of fun activities.

Photo courtesy of Ally People Solutions

Today, the group serves as a powerful example of what long-term community engagement looks like.

“For 50 years, we’ve been helping create a genuine relationship between the individuals we serve, the community who supports them, and the businesses who employ them,” said Erika Schwichtenberg, director of development and communications for ALLY People Solutions.

At the time ALLY was founded, doctors and state officials regularly encouraged parents to institutionalize children with intellectual disabilities—sending the children to state hospitals, which kept residents in dehumanizing and abusive conditions.

ALLY (originally known as the Merriam Park Day Activity Center) revolutionized this approach. The original group of parents knew they wanted to provide socialization and recreation for their adult sons and daughters, who were normally isolated from their peers. Even more importantly, they were committed to building a culture that would treat their children as people, not as problems.

As the program developed, parents of particiLooking back on changes in services - p. 3

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

“The problem is not that the students do not hear. The problem is that the hearing world does not listen.”

— Rev. Jesse L. Jackson

NEWS DIGEST

She’s the next president of Gallaudet University.

Page 3

UCare official explains what changes are ahead and what stays the same.

Page 4

The Arc Minnesota recognizes community members’ accomplishments.

Page 7

Camp Courage alumni gather to celebrate a milestone.

Page 8

Unsung heroes are given their due.

Page 10

INSIDE Accessible Fun, pg 11 & 13 Events, pg 12 People & Places, pg 7-10 Radio Talking Book, pg 14 Regional News, pg 6, 14-15

Pg 2 November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin Over the last couple years we’ve had some very influential locals leave Minnesota to contribute to the disability community in a bigger way. The most recent is Roberta “Bobbi” Cordano, vice president of programs for the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation in St. Paul, who has been selected to be Gallaudet University’s eleventh president.

Gallaudet University was established in 1856 as a grammar school called the Columbia Institution for Instruction of the Deaf and Dumb and the Blind. It began with 12 students just north of Washington DC, on grounds donated by Amos Kendall. President Abraham Lincoln in 1864 signed the bill that authorized the institution to offer academic college degrees, and the college department became the National Deaf-Mute College (in 1865, blind students were transferred to the Maryland Institution for the Blind). Edward Minard Gallaudet was the school’s first superintendent, and the college was named after him by the U.S. Congress in 1954. The first University diplomas were signed by President Ulysses S. Grant, and every diploma from Gallaudet since has been signed by the presiding US President. (That would be a pretty cool diploma to hang on your wall, wouldn’t it?)

What is especially important to people with disabilities is that Gallaudet University on March 1, 1988 became the site where the disability rights movement became a civil rights movement in the eyes of the general public. It began with over 1,000 Gallaudet students and people from other deaf organizations actively protesting the appointment of a hearing person as president.

The students demanded that a deaf person be chosen by the university’s Board of Trustees (two of the three finalists for the position had been deaf). The mainstream media picked up on the protest when Gallaudet students started setting up tents and camping on the front yard of the university president’s home. The press and the public recognized the “Deaf President Now” protest as a demonstration similar to many prior civil rights campaigns. The students prevailed, and it seems obvious to us today that a deaf president would be the best choice for this prestigious university for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Even so, it’s sometimes still a struggle for the mainstream population to recognize the truth in the childhood playground chant, “it takes one, to know one.” It’s very hard for a person without a disability to understand and feel the discrimination, frustrations and difficulties of living with a disability. It’s not impossible, of course. There are many allies who really do understand the struggle for disability rights. And most of us in the disability community know many non-disabled people who “get it.”

I try to remember that when some in the general population place people with disabilities apart—and even see us with fear or suspicion. Lately I’ve heard a lot of suspicion in discussions about Social Security.

Politicians are claiming that people on Social Security Disability Insurance are fraudulently taking money from the system. One politician, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), claimed that “Over half the people on disability are either anxious or their back hurts. Join the club.”

If these divisive politicians were right, I would be protesting against the program myself. But I know that Social Security Disability Insurance is the only source of income for many people with disabilities, and most of them are living below poverty level even with that income. According to a report released in November by the Social Security Administration’s Inspector General, fraudulent Social Security Disability Insurance claims are exceedingly rare—accounting for just 0.02% of all payments. And it’s easy to find these facts on the Social Security Administration website.

Pitting the general public against people with disabilities, claiming that people with disabilities are robbing and cheating the system is what keeps stereotypes alive—and some politicians making headlines.

Senator Rand also claimed in 2010 that the Americans with Disabilities Act should be abolished because it’s unfair to business. There’s another claim I don’t understand. How is it unfair to businesses if the 15 to 20% of Americans with disabilities are included in the U.S. buying population? Maybe they think it would be better to institutionalize people with disabilities, and concentrate their benefit to businesses within the nursing home industry.

Thanks to all who attended the Charlie Smith award banquet again this year. I’m writing this in advance of the banquet, so I’ll fill you all in on how it went next month.

Hoping it stays warm for a few more weeks; I’m getting used to this.

HISTORY NOTE

Minnesota pioneers prep adapted sports competition The 2015-2016 academic year marks the centennial of the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL). Although high schools fielded sports teams in Minnesota as long ago as the 1870s, a sustainable statewide group wasn’t put into place until 1916. That’s when the Minnesota State High School Athletic Association was formed.

A committee of superintendents, led by H.C. Bell of Luverne, drew up plans for the association in 1914. The group was formally organized two years later, with the mission of promoting amateur sports and establishing uniform eligibility rules for interscholastic activities. Bell served as the association’s first president, from 1916 to 1922.

By the 1930s the association had grown to include debate and speech and all interscholastic athletics.

But in the 1930s and 1940s, sports were deemed too strenuous for girls. Girls’ sports were replaced with intramural sports at individual schools. It would not be until 1970 that girls’ sports would be restored, which predated the Title IX amendment.

By that time the pressure was building to add adapted sports, so that students with disabilities could join in the fun and gain the health benefits. More than

45 years ago, students with disabilities at Minneapolis’ Marshall High asked for the chance to play floor hockey. They wrote their own rules, adapted for athletes with disabilities. Soon adapted soccer was added. One of those students was Jim Christy, who has cerebral palsy.

The Minnesota Adapted Athletics Association (MAAA) was founded in 1969, to provide youth with disabilities the same opportunity as other students enjoy the benefits of a quality high school sports program. The association provides support, scheduling, and playoff ratings for the sports of soccer, floor hockey, and softball.

In 1992, the MSHSL accepted a proposal from MAAA to become the first high school activity association in the nation to sponsor adapted athletic programs. The first state championships under the MSHSL umbrella began in 1994.

Schools compete in adapted floor hockey, softball, soccer and bowling. Teams compete in divisions for cognitive and physical disabilities. In spring 2016 the bowling competition will feature a third division, for athletes with autism spectrum disorder. Athletes with disabilities can also compete in track and field events.

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Christy went on to earn degrees from the University of Minnesota and Utah State University. He is a longtime coach and teacher at Minneapolis South High School, and has worked with many adapted sports teams. He helped write the rules used in adapted hockey. He has long been active in MAAA and in 2009 was inducted into the MSHSL Hall of Fame.

Christy is just one of many people who has played a role in prep adapted sports history. The Robins of Robbinsdale-Hopkins-Mound/Westonka schools have won many state championships, under the leadership of Marcus Onsum. Many others have coached and helped teams get the equipment and support they need.

Minnesota is the first state in the United States where student athletes with disabilities can be on a sports team and earn varsity letters in sports, thanks to the MSHSL and MAAA. ■ The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mnddc.org or www.mncdd.org and www.partnersinpolicymaking.com. This month’s History Note is taken from the MSHSL Bulletin and MAAA records.

November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

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Wilder executive to lead Gallaudet, takes office in 2016 A leader with Minnesota ties will become the next president of Gallaudet University, the nation’s premier university for the deaf and hearing-impaired.

Bobbi Cordano, vice president of programs for the St. Paul-based Amherst H. Wilder Foundation, will take the helm at Gallaudet in January.

In an announcement from Gallaudet, Cordano stated, “I want to thank the entire community for making me feel welcome throughout this selection process. There is no other place like this in the world and I’m honored to have been chosen to lead and serve this unique, one-of-a-kind university. With Gallaudet’s world-class researchers and faculty, innovative academic programs, a motivated, ambitious student body, and a dedicated staff that serves all institutional needs, there is great promise to develop and graduate future leaders who will make significant contributions to our country and the world. I look forward to working with the entire university on the transition process over the next several months.”

Cordano currently oversees a $20 million annual

budget for Wilder programs serving children, families, social services, aging communities and more.

She leaves Minnesota with a long list of accomplishments. She is a founding member of Metro Deaf School, a pre-k through eighth grade, a bilingualbicultural charter school for deaf and hard of hearing children in St. Paul, and a founding board member of Minnesota North Star Academy, a bilingual-bicultural charter high school for deaf and hard of hearing students. In 2003, Cordano, along with Vice President Walter Mondale and former Gov. Elmer A. Anderson, was a recipient of the inaugural Public Leadership Award from the Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.

Cordano will be the 11th president of the historic university located about a mile from the capitol, known internationally as a model of education and research. Its federal charter was signed in 1864 by President Abraham Lincoln. Her parents are Gallaudet alumni. Cordano holds degrees from Beloit College and the University of Wisconsin Law School.

“This is a job I feel like I’ve been preparing for my whole career,” said Cordano, who also is hard of hearing. She succeeds T. Alan Hurwitz, who is retiring as Gallaudet’s president at year’s end. She and her family will move into the Gallaudet president’s Victorian home next year, where she will oversee a university serving Bobbi Cordano about 1,700 students.

Cordano has already launched a social media campaign to crank up her profile with a “Get Your Selfie with President Cordano” Twitter campaign, hashtag #Bobbi4GU. One key focus for Cordano will be the future direction of Gallaudet. Another is the need to address the shortage of specialized education services nationwide for students who are deaf and hear-impaired. ■ (Source: Star Tribune, Gallaudet University)

Looking back on changes in service - from p. 1 pants shifted their focus to developing job skills. If their sons and daughters were going to live independently, they would first need the skills necessary to earn a living wage. By this time, in 1985, the group had grown to 65 participants. The agency moved to the St. Paul Midway neighborhood and rebranded itself as the Midway Training Services (MTS).

Participants worked both on-site and in local businesses. As former board member Mickey Michlitsch said, “There would be a staff trainer and five or six workers, and we had jobs at a window company and other companies, like machine companies, and direct mailing companies.”

As MTS developed, it took advantage of government funding for disability services, as well as new legislation prohibiting discrimination against those with disabilities. They pushed for more workplace integration—putting MTS participants at jobs alongside non-disabled workers—and acquired a fleet of vehicles to help participants get to their new jobs.

In the 2000s, the organization began focusing on digital imaging services—converting physical records to digital ones—which remains a mainstay of ALLY’s employment opportunities. As more participants joined the program, the group added new locations, expanding to five sites around the metro area.

Finally, in 2013, MTS adopted its new name, ALLY People Solutions, to better reflect their mission as “allies” of those with disabilities.

Today, ALLY provides a broad range of services.

Its largest focus is on employment. “We have our individual placements with fifty-two area businesses that hire our program participants,” Schwichtenberg said. “We also have supported employment services, where a job coach is on the job with participants The ALLY employment model is “person-centered,” meaning participants go through a discovery process to figure out what jobs or services would be most fulfilling to them. “We’re not just filling jobs or reporting numbers,” said Schwichtenberg, “we’re focusing on the individual’s needs and employment goals.”

To provide this level of service, ALLY employs about 70 staff members, as well as a team of volunteers, who aid individuals and families in discovering

the services that are available to them, and opportunities that best fit goals, skills, and desires of program participants.

ALLY also sets itself apart by ensuring higher wages for its participants. Organizations that provide employment services for people with disabilities are allowed to apply for a Special Minimum Wage Certificate, which permits them to pay disabled employee workers less than minimum wage. For the last three years, ALLY has refused this exemption, meaning that all participants in ALLY’s programs earn minimum wage or above.

ALLY also provides a variety of life skills services to participants, including self-advocacy training, volunteer opportunities, counseling, and recreational programs.

One ALLY participant has enjoyed particular success because of the recreational programs. ALLY participant Tony Harold-Pappas, who has been with ALLY for three years, found his artistic calling through one of the painting programs.

After taking his first class, Harold-Pappas knew he had found his passion. Since then, he has been constantly painting and has sold so many paintings that he says he can’t keep track of them. In January, he achieved a major artistic milestone when the Ordway chose him as a featured artist in a month-long exhibit.

For Harold-Pappas, the experience is therapeutic as well as recreational. “Painting is an outlet for me,” he said, “so if I have something building up inside me, I can paint instead of doing something destructive.”

He reflects on his work with pride. “It’s a joy every time I see my paintings,” said Harold-Pappas. “I’m proud of what I’ve done, and how far I’ve come.”

As it passes the 50-year mark, Schwichtenberg said that ALLY is going to continue supporting and removing barriers for people with disabilities. “We’ve seen a lot in our fifty years. Before, it felt at times as if we would take a few steps forward and one step back. Now we’re ready for a renewed growth phase, and ready to engage the community we’ve worked to co-create.”

In addition to providing its normal host of services, ALLY will look to expand in a few ways. According

to its strategic mission for the next three years, ALLY is committed to increasing collaboration with other organizations, while also increasing revenue. They will expand their education and advocacy efforts, and finally look to formalize a volunteer program for other people looking to get involved in ALLY’s work. ■

Pg 4 November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

UCare adapts to state changes

by Deanne Probst

The UCare health plan that dealt with very difficult news this summer will begin 2016 as a strong and leaner organization with a clear eye on its future.

The tough news was the loss of two state public program contracts for 2016: MinnesotaCare and Prepaid Medical Assistance Program (PMAP-Medicaid) in all but Olmsted County for 2016. This loss of approximately 350,000 UCare members of these plans followed a statewide competitive bidding process by the Department of Human Services (DHS) for the two programs. Many members of UCare Connect, our plan for people with disabilities in Minnesota, read Access Press. We’re in this issue now because all of us at UCare want every current and future UCare Connect member to know that UCare and their coverage will be here in 2016 – delivered by employees who put them and every member of our nine health plans at the heart of everything we do.

Here’s a look at what UCare will continue to offer in 2016: • UCare Connect (a.k.a Special Needs BasicCare, or SNBC) – For adults with certified disabilities (physical, developmental, and/or mental illness) ages 1864 (may remain in SNBC when they turn 65). UCare Connect offers a free SilverSneakers® Fitness membership, dental coverage, UCare’s Health Ride service, and more. It debuted in 2008 and serves Minnesotans in 42 counties.

• UCare Choices and Fairview UCare Choices – Commercial products accredited by the National Committee on Quality Assurance (NCQA) available on MNsure for individuals and families.

• Minnesota Senior Health Options– Integrates Medical Assistance and Medicare services and payments for people age 65 and older.

• Minnesota Senior Care Plus– For people eligible for Medical Assistance age 65 and older.

• UCare for Seniors – Medicare Advantage products with an excellent accreditation rating from NCQA and an Overall Rating of 4.5 out of 5 Medicare stars for people eligible for Medicare.

• EssentiaCare – A new Medicare Advantage product for 2016 offered with Essentia Health for Medicare-eligible people in 10 north central Minnesota counties.

• MinnesotaCare and Prepaid Medical Assistance in Olmsted County There’s no question that the loss of PMAP and MinnesotaCare was pretty tough for us. Our roots run long and deep in the communities with members served by these plans. In fact, UCare was created by the University of Minnesota Department of Family Medicine in 1984 to serve lower-income and underserved people in Hennepin County.

For members no longer receiving UCare coverage, the DHS decision means the absence of the one health plan option in the state created with the express purpose of serving.

Minnesotans who had traditionally faced barriers to accessing health care. For all members of the two programs, it means the state must transition an unprecedented 465,000 members, many of whom live impermanently, from one plan to another.

UCare made every effort possible to retain PMAP and MinnesotaCare service.

Our new President and CEO Jim Eppel, who joined UCare in mid-June this year, met with DHS Commissioner Lucinda Jesson and Gov. Mark Dayton. He testified at a Senate Health and Human Services Committee hearing on the issue. He Challenges to union - from p. 1 court after union foes lost at the lower court levels.

PCAs on both sides of the issue spoke in court and afterward. Kris Greene, a Lakeville resident who cares for her daughter full-time, said she is thankful for the support she gets from the state and doesn’t need a union to represent her.

Debra Howze, a worker from north Minneapolis, said that as a woman of color, she takes the challenge personally. Howze said she is tired of outside organizations trying to dismantle what she and others worked hard for.

Union supporters and state officials contend that

Outings to Twins games are just some of the many community activities UCare has supported over the years.

Courtesy photo

stressed UCare’s concerns about the impact of transitioning the large volume of state program members to new health plans. And he shared our many concerns with several aspects of the process and the potentially detrimental loss of competition among health plans now and in the future.

We all were gratified by the outpouring of support we received from diverse communities, provider partners and nonprofit agencies during this time. We deeply appreciated every letter and conversation with policymakers on our behalf.

Twenty-five counties filed appeals with DHS in support of UCare; 14 of them proceeded with an expedited appeal process.

Unfortunately, these efforts were largely unsuccessful, with the exception of Olmsted County, which will keep UCare as a health plan option in 2016.

In October, UCare withdrew legal action filed earlier on the matter. Because open enrollment had begun for many Minnesota counties and the county appeals had concluded, leadership ended the action in the interests of allowing MinnesotaCare and PMAP enrollees to go forward with their 2016 health plan selections without further delays or confusion.

The loss of such a high number of valued members is compounded by our impending loss of 29 percent of our workforce. Most departing employees will remain with UCare until Jan. 8, 2016 to ensure members receive complete service in 2015 and a smooth transition to new health plans in 2016. Approximately 580-590 full-time staff will remain with UCare in the new year.

The bidding process and outcome are now behind us—and we are looking ahead to serving current and future members in the very best way we can. Leadership and a reconfigured UCare are focused on strengthening and growing UCare in 2016. And staff will continue to live our mission to improve the health of our members through innovative partnerships across communities.

“We are committed to serving an estimated 157,000 members enrolled in our high-quality plans at the start of 2016,” said Eppel. “There’s no question that we will deliver innovative, collaborative health care services throughout 2015 and well beyond as we craft the new shape and future of UCare.” ■ Deanne Probst is the Senior Communications Specialist at UCare.

the law enabling workers to unionize was passed correctly. After years of debate, the 2013 Minnesota Legislature passed a law allowing home health care workers to vote whether to unionize. The approval followed one of the most high-profile and sweeping union expansion efforts in state history. Long legislative debates preceded approval of the vote.

Workers voted in 2014 to join the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and celebrated at the Minnesota State Fair. This year the workers and their union reached a contract with the state.

The law’s supporters said that they already are seeing the positives of collective bargaining, including higher wages starting at $10.75 per hour, paid time off, grievance processes, improved training and other benefits. They contend that no one is forced to join a union and pay dues, and said that the opposition comes from a small group of foes.

Scott Kronland represents the unionized workers.

He told the judges that the union doesn’t influence members’ actions. “People would reasonably believe that not every individual agrees with the union,” Kronland said. “They can speak and say whatever they want, and when the union’s contract goes to the legislature, they can speak against it.”

The state also joined in the case to uphold the law that allowed unionization. Minnesota Solicitor General Alan Gilbert said that participation and dues aren’t mandatory. He said the union foes haven’t been able to show harm as a result of the contract.

The unionization effort has met opposition from some workers, family members of people with dis-

abilities and “right-to-work” groups. They argue that although the workers aren’t forced to pay union dues, they are still essentially forced to join by association.

They have also argued that union involvement is simply a grab of state funding for the PCA program.

Doug Seaton, an attorney for some of the individuals challenging the union, said the state law that allowed workers to organized is really designed to provide cash flow for the union without provision of any real services for the PCAs. The National Right to Work Legal Foundation’s attorney, William Messenger, argued that although care attendants are paid using public health care money that doesn’t make them eligible for unionization. He asked judges where the line should be drawn. “If exclusive representation is not confined to true employees, where does it end?”

Another argument the foundation has raised that the union infringes upon First Amendment association rights of PCAs. Having a union means a single person speaks for them, which some oppose. That argument was questioned by Appeals Court Judge William Riley. “They still could individually lobby,” he said.

“Why is that illogical or unreasonable?”

It’s not clear what rulings elsewhere will mean for the Minnesota cases. Last year the U.S. Supreme Court ruled a home-care union in Illinois was unconstitutional. That was because fees were automatically subtracted from provider payments.

In Minnesota, a right-to-work challenge by day care providers was thrown out because no decision has been made on whether to unionize. ■

November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

Pg 5

Social Security Disability Insurance - from p. 1 The report calls for longer-term policy development, after another adjustment. Its recommendation reflects a sentiment that SSDI growth has slowed in the past couple of years. The report also notes that when the share of funds was adjusted in 1994, it was done with the same intent to develop long-term policy. But that didn’t happen.

SSDI critics noted that not all of the program’s costs are due to demographics and that some must be attributed to mid-1980s program rules that made it easier for those with mental health or musculoskeletal conditions to seek SSDI. Another oft-leveled criticism is that SSDI doesn’t provide enough resources to keep people with disabilities remain employed and that there aren’t enough accommodations and supports to help people become self-sufficient.

One concern over the past several months was that debate over SSDI had become very politically partisan.

SSDI is just a small piece of the larger federal budget. Generally, the overall federal budget agreement would provide modest spending increases over the next two years and raise the federal borrowing limit.

It would cut some social service programs. The agreement was seen as avoiding a disastrous default on government debt.

The agreement would raise spending by $80 billion over two years. The increases would be offset by cuts in spending including Medicare and SSDI benefits, as well as savings or revenue from other programs.

Medicare savings would come from cuts in payments to health care providers.

The annual federal budget is almost $4 trillion, so an $80 billion increase may seem small in the context of that very large amount. But it was seen as significant as it brought an end to wrangling over various spending caps. It was also the last major project by outgoing House Speaker John Boehner, who is stepping down after bitter spending fights within and beyond his own Republican party.

U.S. Treasury Department officials had stated that the government would have defaulted on its debt if the statutory borrowing limit wasn’t raised by November 3. The pact also averted a government shutdown in December.

... the government would have defaulted on its debt if the statutory borrowing limit wasn’t raised ...

One upcoming change is that SSDI will be amended. Part of the changes would tighten up the program and bring standardization to eligibility requirements that now vary by state. That change is projected to save $5 billion. Other cost-saving changes include allowing some recipients who can still work to receive partial payments while earning outside income. There would also be an expansion of a program requiring a second medical expert to weigh in on whether an applicant is truly disabled.

The budget agreement also prevents expected increases in out-of-pocket costs for millions of Medicare Part B beneficiaries. An increase of more than 50 percent was feared at one point.

But some of the most complex and potentially financially harmful changes affect people who receive or plan to soon receive Social Security benefits. 2016 will be rare year with an absence of a cost-of-living increase in Social Security for retiree and survivor beneficiaries. That’s due to low inflation. It’s only the third time in 40 years that benefits won’t increase.

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There are also several technical changes coming with deeming and loss of benefits, suspension of benefits and timing of when persons opt to take benefits.

Social Security benefit-boosting strategies known as file-and-suspend and restricted application or “claimsome-now; claim-more-later” benefits, will become more complex. Changes are also being made that affect how spouses file for benefits.

File and suspend has been controversial, with some

One concern over the past several months was that debate over SSDI had become very politically partisan. contending that more affluent recipients use it to “game” the Social Security system, to get a higher benefit down the road. But others noted that many people could potentially boost their benefits through such a strategy.

“One advantage of these strategies was that they provided an incentive for someone to delay the start

of his or her own retirement benefits,” said Kurt Czarnowski of Czarnowski Consulting. “By eliminating them, Congress may well be driving people to start collecting earlier than they otherwise would have, a decision, which, given increasing life expectancy, may not be in their best interest.

Anyone who is able to work with a financial planner on Social Security or SSDI issues is urged to do so, to prepare for the many changes ahead.

One source of information is the Social Security Administration, at www.ssa.gov/ Updates are posted frequently and staff can answer questions.

Another good source of updated information is the Social Security Administration blog, at blog.social security.gov Look for a recently posted fact sheet that details all of the 2016 changes to Social Security.

On the main Social Security Administration web page is the link to SSDI information, which is useful to people with disabilities. It can be found at www.ssa.gov/disability/ ■

Pg 6 November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

REGIONAL NEWS Group home residents are rescued Three residents of a Roseville group home were rescued from a burning building October 22 thanks to the quick reaction of their caretakers. Just days before, Brenda Spaggins and Nasu Mboma, caretakers with Wingspan Life Resources, practiced a fire drill with the residents. They didn’t know they’d need to put their plan into action so quickly.

The caretakers’ first thoughts were their clients— George, 86, Christopher, 46, and Guy, 61. Two of the men cannot walk.

“I became fire mom, just carried him out,” said Spaggins, a supervisor who worked at the home for six years. “I got them both together. I got Guy out of his room, got him to the living room and took him out the door and then picked up George, put him in his wheelchair and pushed them out.”

“We were out of the house less than two minutes I can say,” said Mboma.

Firefighters arrived to the sight of heavy smoke and flames shooting up the back of the home and the caretakers and three residents watching from the road.

“They did exactly what they were trained to do and what their drilling told them to do,” said Sam Baker, fire inspector with the Roseville Fire Department.

Within 20 minutes, the flames were out, leaving behind heavy damage to a majority of the home. Baker says the fire started on the deck of the house, possibly from an unattended cigarette. The cause has not officially been determined. ■ (Source: KARE 11 News)

Nursing home to close soon Inability to attract enough residents and ongoing financial losses are forcing north Minneapolis’ St. Olaf Lutheran Church to close its 80-bed nursing home. Closing of St. Olaf Care Center will take place later this month.

The nursing home opened in 1964. Closing means displacement of about 50 people, including several younger residents with disabilities. The church is considering converting part of the facility into assisted living in the future.

St. Olaf will continue to operate North Oaks of Emerson, a smaller, 48-unit assisted living facility in the area. Church officials said that the nursing home was long a destination for people with disabilities and senior citizens being discharged from metro area hospitals. But in recent years more people opted to go to newer, suburban facilities. Another change is that more people receive services in their homes.

Minnesota has seen many changes in its skilled nursing facility industry. More people are opting to live at home with support, or to move to assisted living centers. About 70 nursing homes in the state have closed since 2000. The number of beds has declined by about one-third, from 43,000 to 29,600 statewide.

The 2015 Minnesota Legislature made changes in how nursing homes are reimbursed for care but that may be too late for some facilities. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

Metro Mobility drivers file lawsuit Three drivers of Metro Mobility buses have filed a legal complaint alleging wage theft against the suburban paratransit service provider. The complaint is against First Transit Inc., a company that provides rides for disabled and elderly people in the southern and eastern suburbs.

Kent Thompson of Blaine, Majic Martin of Mounds View, and Mark Stang of White Bear Lake, claim that First Transit Inc. has denied them payment for time worked. Attorney Shawn Wanta, who represents the three, said that class-action status will be sought. Wanta estimates that there could be more than 500 people in the class.

The legal action is what is called a “pocket filing.”

Under state law, a civil case starts when a complaint is served, instead of a more common court filing. The complaint was served on the defendants October 26.

The court it will be heard in hasn’t been determined.

The complaint states that drivers spend time before their paid shift finding their bus and preparing it for

service. At the end of the workday, drivers are required to drive to a fuel station, inspect their vehicles, complete post-trip reports, count and reconcile fares, and report any incidents.

Metro Mobility buses provided more than 1.7 million rides to people with disabilities throughout the Twin Cities in 2014. First Transit, the U.S. subsidiary of Ohio-based FirstGroup America, has been operating Metro Mobility East for several years. The Metropolitan Council, the regional government for the Twin Cities, recently renewed the contract through August 2020.

In June, First Transit won a new five-year contract with Metropolitan Council to provide service in the southern suburbs, replacing the West St. Paul nonprofit group DARTS. DARTS itself has been roiled by litigation and allegations about management and condition of vehicles.

FirstGroup had not filed a response to the lawsuit as of Access Press deadline. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

People lose low-cost Internet service

Alcoholism is disability, is lawsuit claim

About 14,000 low-income Twin Cities households risk losing their low-cost Internet service in early November. The pending end of an old Sprint data network means the end of a service provided by the St. Paul nonprofit PCs for People.

The service taps into WiMAX wireless technology, which Sprint is dropping. PCs for People officials contend that Sprint is required to put in a substitute service but that hasn’t happened. PCs for People works with two national technology-focused nonprofits, Mobile Citizen and Mobile Beacon, to help make Internet service available in the Twin Cities. The two nonprofits are continuing to have talks with Sprint. In the meantime, PCs for People is directing its clients to other services.

Twin Cities customers are worried. Melanie Manson, a PCs for People client with disabilities who lives in the western suburbs, said she wouldn’t want to go back to dial-up service. But she cannot afford other Internet providers available. “Being disabled is isolating, and this helps me feel less isolated,” Manson told the Pioneer Press. “I really felt like I was part of society.” She has been unable to find a new service she can afford.

PCs for People estimates that about 36,000 children and 16,800 adults will be affected by the change. ■ (Source: Pioneer Press)

A fired Minnesota State Lottery official is claiming discrimination based on her alcoholism ad is arguing that alcoholism should be seen as a disability.

Johnene Canfield, who was the lottery’s director of operations, was fired earlier this year. She had been in a December 2014 auto accident, which resulted in driving while intoxicated charges.

This fall Canfield sued the state and her former boss for firing her. She is claiming that state lottery executives knew she has a disability as a result of her alcoholism. Yet her boss drank with her at conferences and other events.

While alcohol dependency isn’t spelled out specifically in the Americans with Disabilities Act or in state disability law, the courts and regulatory agencies have interpreted chemical dependency as qualification for disability status. It is mentioned in U.S. Justice Department rules related to the ADA. Canfield began working for the state lottery in 1989 and rose through the ranks to become operations director. The lawsuit states she began having issues with alcoholism in 2011 and was suspended in 2012 for being drunk at an out-of-state conference. She was banned from drinking on future trips.

After the 2014 accident she sought and received treatment but was terminated instead of being reinstated. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

Large malpractice verdict announced One of the largest medical malpractice verdicts in recent Minnesota history was awarded this fall to a former auto mechanic who suffered spinal cord damage and paralysis in a 2012 surgery.

Joseph Lakoskey received $9.1 million from a Hennepin County jury. His attorney argued that an anesthesiologist left him dangerously dehydrated before surgery to repair a perforated bowel at North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale.

“Joe Lakoskey wants nothing more than to have his life and ability to walk back,” Brandon Thompson, an

attorney with the Robins Kaplan firm, said in a statement. “This verdict will provide him with the resources he needs to live as independent a life as possible.”

Lakoskey, 51, went to North Memorial with flu-like symptoms. He received fluids for dehydration while doctors found his injury and recommended surgery.

The problem, his attorneys argued, was halting treatment of dehydration while starting him on anesthesia an hour before surgery—a double whammy that caused his blood pressure to drop and his spinal cord Verdict announced - p. 14

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

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November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

PEOPLE & PLACES

Pg 7

The Arc Minnesota honors many for their service

Left to right: Staff of Partnership Resources, Inc., John Hetterick, Solla Kamanga with emcee Susan-Elizabeth Littlefield, Sen. John Hoffman and Rep. Nick Zerwas

Several people who provide outstanding service to Minnesota’s disability community were honored October 23 by The Arc Minnesota. Awards were presented at the organization’s annual banquet.

Many of the awards are named in honor of past community leaders.

The Community Innovator Award honors work that increases community inclusion or self-determination of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Award winner Left to right: Brandon Stahl, Jameson Crawford, June Joy, Steve LaFrance/Southwest Transit and Kristi Downs Partnership Resources, Inc. (PRI) has brought the Photos courtesy of The Arc Minnesota ReelAbilities Film Festival to Minnesota twice. The ReelAbilities film festival is the nation’s largest film festival that focuses on and helps Self-Advocates Becoming Empowered representatives to carry out their people with disabilities. It is dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation duties on a national board. She works with self-advocates through the Olmstead of lives, stories and artistic expression of people with different abilities.

Academy, to increase their involvement in Minnesota’s plan for increasing incluThe Teacher of the Year Award went to Kristi Downs, a special education sion and participation in the community. teacher at Willow Creek Middle School in Rochester. After working part-time at a The Employer of the Year Award, for an employer who has an exceptional record group home with people with a variety of disabilities, she returned to school to get of providing inclusive, competitive employment opportunities for people with intellecher master’s degree in special education. Downs concentrates on what students tual and developmental disabilities, went to SouthWest Transit. Intermediate School are able to do independently, rather than focusing on what they are unable to do.

District 287 asked SouthWest Transit to see if the agency would provide competiShe is considered a role model and great mentor. tive employment opportunities for students with disabilities. Almost 50 students The Luther Granquist Systems Change Award went to John Hetterick. A longhave been employed at minimum wage jobs there, performing a variety of custodial time public policy advocate, Hetterick was a key player in passage of the Achievand organizational duties. Students work at Eden Prairie and Chanhassen sites. ing a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act. In 2004, he drafted a concept paper on The Inclusive Housing Award went to The Arc Greater Twin Cities, for helping a possible education savings plan for people with disabilities. The first draft of the persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities live in the community in bill was introduced in 2006. The ABLE Act was signed into law in December the least restrictive environment possible. A housing initiative began in 2012, or2014. Hetterick is now a spokesperson for the program.

Arc Minnesota honors many - p. 13 The Andrew R. Richardson Advocacy Award honors those who speak for and/ or raise awareness of the rights, needs, abilities, and/or human acceptance of people with disabilities. Winner Brandon Stahl, an investigative reporter for the Star Tribune, recently wrote about the death of Eric Dean, a Pope County boy with developmental disabilities. Children with developmental disabilities, especially children of color, have a higher rate of abuse than children without disabilities. The articles led to more protections for children.

The Volunteer of the Year Award went to June Joy. She has volunteered with Living Well Disability Services for the last 19 years, working with people in a therapeutic horticulture program to promote health and wellness. She was instrumental in the evolution of what started as a handful of accessible garden beds to an organization-wide program. Gardening is used to improve the lives of people with disabilities through increased physical activity, self-awareness and independence.

The Legislator of the Year Award went to Sen. John Hoffman (DFL- Champlain) and Rep. Nick Zerwas (R-Elk River). Both supported The 5% Campaign’s bill, with Hoffman as one of the authors.

In 2015 Hoffman authored bills that became law including helping people keep more of their income and still qualify for health care under Medical Assistance; providing information on services and supports available to expectant parents who receive a diagnosis that their unborn baby has Down syndrome, Edwards Syndrome, or Patau Syndrome; changing law that discouraged use of funding for communitybased services; and allowing Minnesota to start implementing the federal ABLE Act. Zerwas became a “go to” legislator on health and human services committees. He was chief author of several bills in 2015, including increasing the amount of income that people can keep and still qualify for health care under Medical Assistance; allowing Minnesota to implement the ABLE Act; expanding access to durable medical equipment; and increasing access to dental services for those on Medical Assistance. He supported lowering parental fees and the mental health legislative agenda.

The Irving Martin Professional of the Year Award honors an individual employed in community services for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities who has demonstrated sensitivity and the ability to provide an outstanding quality of service, which results in increased independence for the people being served. Sollo Kamanga and Wilbur Neuschwander-Frink are the honorees.

Kamanga has worked at the Living Well Disability Services – Larpenteur home for the past 13 years. Kamanga works to maintain his unique relationship with everyone in the home, working weekends, covering co-workers’ time-off requests, and rearranging the schedule at his other (full-time) job to be attend a residents’ events. He takes residents to countless community outings. He also assists residents and other staff with technology.

Whether it is inclusive theater groups in Mankato and New Ulm she directs or the 10 People First groups in Southwest Minnesota she supports, NeuschwanderFrink ensures all are fully involved. She works with Self Advocates in Minnesota,

Pg 8 November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

PEOPLE & PLACES Sixty years of camping fun Camp Courage celebrates its 60 years of serving individuals with disabilities in 2015. In 1955, Camp Courage opened in Maple Lake to serve campers with physical disabilities such as polio, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, as well as other congenital and acquired disabilities. Sixty years later, camp remains a place where individuals of all abilities come to relax, develop lasting friendships and experience new and exciting activities.

Camp Courage is now a part of True Friends, a nonprofit, privately-funded agency that enriches the lives of nearly 4,000 people with developmental or physical disabilities and special needs annually.

Other camp locations include Camp Friendship near Annandale, Camp Eden Wood in Eden Prairie and Camp Courage North near Lake George.

The Goat Ropers reunited at the event to play for an eager crowd of old camp friends.

Camp Courage hosted an alumni reunion and open house recently to celebrate the 60-year milestone. More than 300 friends of Camp Courage joined in the festivities including one of camp’s founders, Virginia Schoenbohm-Clymer and a counselor from the 1990s who traveled from the Czech Republic to be a part of the day.

“Camp was built for just anyone, with any kind of disability, to enjoy being around wonderful, warm friends who are accepting and understanding,” said Schoenbohm-Clymer. She recalled a quote from Sen. Hubert H. Humphrey as he dedicated the Speech and Hearing Camp that was added in 1966. At that time, Humphrey said, “This camp is a living prayer.”

“It’s an honor to be a part of something that has done

Jane Houlton, Rose Adams and Virginia SchoenbohmClymer caught up at the Camp Courage 60th Anniversary celebration.

Photos courtesy of True Friends

so much good for so many people for such a long time,” said President and CEO of True Friends, Ed Stracke.

“You want to know that what you’ve done in life makes a difference in the lives of other people,” said Dave Phillips, former camp director. “Part of all of our stories is camp, and that’s why it is special.

Thank God for Camp Courage.” ■

Hearing Loss Matters documentary has its premiere A new documentary, Hearing Loss Matters, has made its debut. Co-produced by Twin Cities PBS (TPT) and the Commission of Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing Minnesotans, the documentary first aired October 25. Check TPT and its affiliates for rebroadcasts.

The documentary includes interviews with national experts and everyday Minnesotans learning to cope with the effects of age-related hearing loss, and is a blend of human interest stories and details of cuttingedge research.

The documentary addresses the difference that addressing age-related hearing loss can make in the lives of Minnesotans from all walks of life. It also points to public policy issues that need and deserve our lawmakers’ attention.

National experts discuss the importance of addressing age-related hearing loss. Katherine Bouton, author and former editor at the New York Times said, “We’re finally getting past the stigma that hearing loss is a condition of aging … that you just had to shrug your shoulders and not do anything about…We now understand that hearing loss is not a cosmetic condition. Treating it isn’t like coloring your hair or getting a facelift. It’s a medical condition – treating it is actually good for your physical and mental health.”

“We’re just now beginning to understand…that [hearing loss in older adults is] incredibly impactful for things like cognitive decline, our risk of dementia, falls, even preventing hospitalizations,” said Dr. Frank Lin of Johns Hopkins University.

Hearing Loss Matters documentary - p. 13

November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

Two people with disabilities are recipients of the 2015 Judd Jacobson Memorial Award, an award given to honor exceptional entrepreneurs. The awards are given by the Courage Kenny Foundation, with each winner receiving a $5,000 cash award to help advance their businesses.

In 2012, Duluth resident Zach Knuckey, 26, experienced a stroke in his spine which left him with paralysis.

Knuckey’s love of water and an active lifestyle led him to found Waters Edge Guide Service, which provides guided fishing tours and builds custom fishing rods.

Knuckey’s paraplegia doesn’t impact his exceptional ability to guide people to catch fish. His number one

goal is to find fish; his second is to teach his customers how to catch them. While recuperating from his stroke he perfected his skill of building custom fishing rods.

Custom rods will soon become one of his primary sources of income along with the guided fishing tours.

Knuckey plans to use the Jacobson Award money to build and maintain a website for his business. He also plans to purchase a rod wrapper and finisher to assist in building custom rods and purchase a stateof-the-art side imaging sonar with 360 degree imaging to help set his guided tours apart from others. To learn more, visit www.facebook.com/watersedgeguide Minneapolis resident Kelsey Peterson, 30, is a quadriplegic as a result of a diving accident in 2012.

Since her injury she has devoted her time to Siren, an organic, safe, holistic body care line.

Siren products range from deodorant and men’s shaving and facial care to quality moisturizers, face

MN-CCD hires new managing director

Service dog is off to college

Sheryl R. Grassie was recently hired as the managing director for the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD).

Grassie, who holds a Phd. in educational leadership, is a longtime advocate for disability issues.

“In her role as managing director, Sheryl will be responsible for effective outreach and relation- Sheryl R. Grassie ship building,” said MN-CCD Board Chairman David Hancox, “She will be maintaining effective and regular communication with the members of the MNCCD.” Hancox urged all MN-CCD members to join in welcoming Grassie to the organization.

Grassie has an extensive background which includes leadership roles in several disability focused nonprofits, as a special education teacher, clinical work, and organizational developmental. Most recently she was the executive director of the Minnesota based nonprofit The End of the Spectrum, advocating for the needs of children diagnosed with autism.

Grassie has also served as an independent writing and business consultant. She has authored, ghostwritten and /or edited numerous books and articles related to the fields of psychology, disability and education.

Grassie earned her doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of St. Thomas, a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Macalester College. She resides in Minneapolis.

She has three children and is an avocational potter.

MN-CCD is located at 2446 University Ave West, #110, St. Paul, MN 55114. Grassie may be reached at srgrassie @mnccd.org; her phone number is 952-818-8718. ■

Two of the latest Can Do Canines graduates are in pursuit of higher education.

St. Cloud State University student Samantha Wanner and Obie, her mobility assist dog, were among the 19 people and canine assistance dog teams gradu- Obie and Samantha Wanner ating from the Can Do Canines assistance dog program October 24 in New Hope.

The graduating class includes dogs that assist people who live with autism, diabetes, hearing and mobility issues. All dogs are provided by Can Do Canines free of charge.

Wanner, 22, and Obie attend college together. Diagnosed at age 15, the umbrella term for Wanner’s disability is autonomic dysfunction—a chronic problem with the internal system that controls functions like heart rate, breathing rate and blood pressure. This causes her body to experience extreme exhaustion, deep aches and sporadic and quickened heart fluctuations.

Obie helps Wanner feel more and confident and safe in her daily life, and in doing so, she has reenrolled in college. She hopes to graduate with a degree in psychology and pursue her dreams of helping others with disabilities.

Obie, a yellow Labrador retriever, helps Wanner up Service dog off to college - p. 10

PEOPLE & PLACES Two win Jacobson Award

Pg 9

2015 Jacobson Award recipients Zach Knuckey and Kelsey Peterson, with Barbara Jacobson (center), the wife of the late Judd Jacobson.

Courtesy of Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute

masks and therapeutic bath soaks. All products include organic and locally sourced essential oils and are handcrafted in small batches. With a very grassroots movement, Siren started through friends and family and has spread from there.

With the award money Petersen plans to extend her customer base by participating in fairs, farmer’s markets, local businesses and trunk shows with other local artists. She also plans to order new eco-friendly packaging and develop new marketing and display tools to help her grow her business. To purchase Siren products, www.visit sirensuperiorskin.etsy.com Knuckey and Peterson were honored October 8 at a banquet at the Edina Country Club.

Courage Kenny Foundation raises funds to support patients and clients of Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, which was formed in 2013 by the merger of Courage Center and Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, part of Allina Health. ■

Pg 10 November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

PEOPLE & PLACES

Two who make life better for others are recognized

Two people who work with Minnesotans with disabilities are the 2015 recipients of the Virginia McKnight Binger Unsung Hero Awards. The awards were presented in October at the Minnesota Council on Nonprofits annual convention in St. Paul. Honored were Tom Johnson of St. Paul, a client advocate with Mental Health Minnesota and Wilbur Neuschwander-Frink of Mankato, a community organizer with the Arc Southwest.

Presented by the council in partnership with The McKnight Foundation, the Unsung Hero Awards honor individuals doing life-changing work in communities across Minnesota. Awards for excellence were also given to groups that work with Minnesotans with disabilities: Washburn Center for Children, Opportunity Partners, Mixed Blood Theater Company and People Incorporated.

“We’re fortunate to live in a state with so many generous individuals,” said Jon Pratt, Minnesota Council of Nonprofit’s executive director. “The Virginia McKnight Binger Unsung Hero Awards honor people who contributed their time and passion with no expectation of credit, just the drive to help their community. It’s truly a testament to the extraordinary difference a person can make.”

Johnson and Neuschwander-Frink were each presented with a cash prize of $10,000. Additionally, a video was to be created to highlight the work for which they are being recognized.

Neuschwander-Frink is a community organizer at The Arc of Minnesota Southwest. She also works for Pathstone Living as a volunteer coordinator. She leads two theater groups for individuals with disabilities and has served with a number of organizations in various capacities, including Feeding Our Communities Partners’ BackPack Food Program, People First, the Good Thunder Reading Series and the Kiwanis Miracle League.

Changes at State Services for the Blind Radio Talking Book and State Services for the Blind has announced changes in personnel. Jay Maruska is the new supervisor for the Braille Unit.

Maruska joins the agency after working at Intermediate School District 287, where he had worked as a Braillist for the past seven years.

Maruska studied Braille through Volunteer Braille Services in 2000-2001, and became a certified Braillist shortly thereafter. He is also fluent in American Sign Language. Maruska succeeded supervisor Donna Marhoun, who retired in September. She had been the supervisor since the death of Mary Archer in 2009. ■

Neuschwander-Frink became involved in the selfadvocacy movement when she worked as a nurse in New Ulm, helping group home residents and staff manage the residents’ health care. But her interests go back to childhood, as she grew with a cousin with a disability. Her family worked to make sure the cousin was included in family and community events.

She served for several years as regional director of The Arc Minnesota Southwest, a nonprofit that promotes the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her talents include writing plays that are performed by people with disabilities, helping the New Ulm-based United We Stand Players and Mankato’s AKTION Club Theater with presentations.

Johnson is a client advocate at Mental Health Minnesota, where he helps individuals with mental illnesses advocate for themselves and maintain independence. His passion for advocacy began at the National Alliance on Mental Illness Minnesota in the 1990s.

Johnson also serves on the State Mental Health Advisory Council and has worked on legislative proposals to require those studying law enforcement to be trained in mental health crises.

Johnson became involved in mental health issues after his son was diagnosed with schizophrenia. “I remembered how confusing it was for family members,” he said.

People who work with Johnson praises his dedication to and patience with his clients. He is known for overcoming barriers and for treating people as individuals who deserve respect and dignity. “They’re not their diagnosis,” one woman said.

Much of Johnson’s work focus is on housing, as he notes that other forms of assistance aren’t as effective when clients lack stability in their home lives.

“I can’t always solve the problem, but I can try, and people know they have been heard,” said Johnson.

Notable mention honorees Robianne Shultz of Perham and Mary Powell of Shoreview will each receive $1,000 to donate to an organization of their choice. Powell is the president of the board of directors at the Center for Engaging Autism and served as the executive director of the Autism Society of Minnesota for 18 years, where she developed programs for individuals and families with autism. Under Powell’s leadership, the Center for Engaging Autism has become an invaluable resource for parents and families. Additionally, Powell started Outcomes, Inc., a residential service provider for individuals with autism; developed a summer camp for individuals with autism; launched the State Autism Conference; and

Tom Johnson

Wilbur Neuschwander-Frink

advocated for teacher licensure in autism spectrum disorders.

Schultz is the state’s American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network lead volunteer, a position she became passionate about after being diagnosed with cancer in 2001. Through this role, Schultz guides advocates at the local and national level to work with elected officials to develop policies to fight cancer and increase funding for cancer research. Additionally, she serves in a leadership role for Relay for Life in East Otter Tail County, where she helps to raise funds for the event.

This was the first year for the nonprofits’ council to work with McKnight Foundation on the Unsung Hero Awards. Since 1985, The McKnight Foundation has recognized Minnesotans who have improved the quality of life for individuals and the community around them through the Virginia McKnight Binger Awards in Human Service. The award is named in honor of Virginia McKnight Binger, who served for nearly 50 years as a McKnight board member, as president from 1974 through 1987 and then as honorary chair until her death in 2002. Although her parents, William and Maude McKnight, established the McKnight Foundation, it was Binger’s personal compassion and generosity that set the standard for its work.

As part of the conference, the council and MAP for Nonprofits presented their annual Nonprofit Mission and Excellence Awards, presented by MCN and MAP for Nonprofits. These awards emphasize the importance of nonprofits to the quality of life in Minnesota by recognizing achievements that make a significant impact in several categories. Washburn Center for Children was honored with the Innovation Award. Opportunity Partners was honored for Advocacy. Mixed Blood Theatre Company was honored for its anti-racism work. The Excellence Award went to People Incorporated. ■

Service dog off to college - from p. 9 the stairs and acts as a brace when she stands up. The assistance dog hauls her laundry and picks up items that she drops. But what Wanner said is the most impactful is how Obie decreases her anxiety.

“Obie is uncomfortable when I’m out of his sight,” she said.

“So I know he will always be by my side if I need his help.”

Can Do Canines is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with specially trained dogs. Since 1989, Can Do Canines has provided more than 480 assistance dogs to people with disabilities.■

Guild Incorporated announces new board member Guild Incorporated, which provides services for people with mental illness, announced that George Stone has joined its board of directors. Stone currently serves as director of the Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) Minnesota.

He is an alumnus of Hamline University. Stone has extensive experience in direct service provision, tenant-landlord relations and child-care. Currently his focus is working to advance supportive housing as well as integrating housing and healthcare. He has been a featured speaker in local and national forums on issues such as developing supportive housing and creating the American Indian Supportive Housing Initiative in 2006.

“I was impressed with Guild Incorporated’s understanding of the various needs faced by specific populations and their enthusiasm in developing new and innovative approaches to ending homelessness,” he said. “Over the years I have been personally impacted by the challenges of mental illness in my life. Multiple family members have struggled with their mental health and it affected their housing, employment, and support systems. The correlation of mental illness, homelessness and the social determinants of health is a growing concern and I think I can help Guild be a leader in the area.” ■

November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11 Pg 11

These heroes helped close our state institutions

ACCESSIBLE FUN Groovy Gala Help raise funds and honor volunteers at ALLY People Solutions’ Groovy Gala, 6 p.m. Thu, Nov. 12 at A’bulae Events Center, 255 E. 6th St., St. Paul. The social hour, wine pull and silent auction are followed by a dinner and program. $100. FFI: 651-641-0709, www.allypeoplesolutions.org

Raise a Glass Sample the best Minnesota’s local brewers and winemakers have to offer 6 p.m. Fri, Nov. 20 at Raise a Glass—A Toast to PACER, Muse Event Center, 107 3rd Ave. N., Mpls. Attendees must be age 21 or older. Tickets $35 in advance or $40 at the door. $15 for non-drinkers. Try beverages and test cutting-edge assistive technology from PACER’s Simon Technology Center. Learn about PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center. FFI: 952-838-9000; www.pacer.org/raiseaglass/

Justin Morneau Casino Night Former Minnesota Twins first baseman Justin Morneau hosts his annual Casino Night fundraiser for the Arthritis Foundation, 6-11 p.m. Sat, Dec. 5 at International Market Square, 275 Market St., Mpls. Play a hand of cards with Morneau and other local celebrities, enjoy other games, hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auctions and a cocktail hour. This year’s event will also feature music by Tim Mahoney, local musician and former ‘The Voice’ contestant. Tickets $150 or $140 apiece for groups of eight. FFI: 651-229-5371

Mickey Prince (at left) and Sue Abderholden are the 2015 honorees at the Heroes of The Arc Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Fri, Dec. 11 at the Midland Hills Country Club in Roseville.

Prince has dedicated her adult life to changing public policy through contact with legislators and county commissioners and service on numerous committees.

She was president of The Arc Minnesota’s Board of Directors during negotiations to close our state institutions.

Abderholden was executive director of The Arc Minnesota from 1987-1991. For more than 30 years, she has successfully fought for policies and community and family supports that assist people with disabilities so they can fully participate in society. Abderholden was a cen-

Dashing Through the Snow

James J. Hill House memory tour

Rochester Repertory Theatre presents pre-Christmas comedy at Rochester Repertory Theatre, 103 7th St. NE, Rochester. ASL offered 8 p.m. Sat, Nov. 21. Tickets $20; student/senior $18; phone: 507-289-1737, www.rochesterrep.org

Take a sensory-based tour designed for people with memory loss and their caregivers. Each themed tour highlights three rooms in the James J. Hill House and is followed by an optional social time with pastries and coffee. Tours offered the first Tuesday of every month and made possible through funding by the Bader Foundation Next tour 1 p.m. Tue, Dec. 1 at Hill House, 240 Summit Ave., St. Paul. Free but reservations required.

FFI: 651-259-3015, 651-297-2555, http:// sites.mnhs.org/historic-sites/james-j-hill-house

Christmas in the Airwaves

Minnesota artists with disabilities who are emerging in their art form are eligible for $2,000 grants from the Jerome Foundation. Application deadline is Fri, Dec. 11.

Applications are available online at http://vsamn.org/artists-disabilities/emerging-artist-grant/ FFI: 612-332-3888 or 1-800-801-3883, or emerginggrant@vsamn.org

Lyric Arts Company of Anoka presents a wartime Christmas tale, at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Nov. 22.

Tickets $15-32; $5 discount for ASL seats. Lyric Arts reserves Rows H and I for parties including persons using wheelchairs or with limited mobility. ASL interpreters are provided at the first Sunday performance of each regular season production. A limited number of seats near the interpreters are held in reserve for ASL patrons until 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 your need for seating in this section. FFI: 763-422-1838, www.lyricarts.org

Contestants needed

Zenon Dance Company: 33rd Fall Season

The Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota competition is searching for women to enter the 2016 pageant. Deadline is Mon, Feb. 15. The competition is based on advocacy achievement, communication and presentation. The winner spends a year representing Minnesotans with disabilities. Minnesota’s winner represents the state in the national pageant. Check the Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota-American Facebook page for details. FFI: MsWheelchairMN@gmail.com

Zenon Dance Company hosts two vibrant world premieres, at Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts, Goodale Theater, 528 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Nov. 22. Tickets $34; student rush tickets $10 with student ID, 30 minutes prior to show; 50% discount to deaf and hard of hearing patrons with the discount code DHH33. FFI: 612-206-3600, www.zenondance.org

Emerging Artist grants

The Night Alive Jungle Theater presents the story of a ne’er do well, whose life is changed for the better, at Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. AD offered 7:30 p.m. Thu, Nov. 19. Contact the theater about a possible ASL-interpreted show. Assistive listening devices available. Tickets reduced to $14 (regular $28-48). FFI: 612-822-7063, www.jungletheater.com

WindSync Schubert Club Azure Family Concert offers inclusive activities for children with autism. A wind quartet presents interactive and educational chamber music, 11 a.m.

Sat, Nov. 21 at Landmark Center Weyerhaeuser Auditorium, 75 W. 5th St., St. Paul. Co-presented by Landmark Center and Wells Pianos. Tickets $5 at the door or $3 in advance required for everyone under age 18. Free for parents, caregivers and chaperones. FFI: 651-2923268, http://schubert.org/concerts/azure-family -concerts-for-families-touched-by-autism/

tral figure in the passage of legislation that eventually moved all Minnesotans with disabilities from our state hospitals.

Come and honor two outstanding women for their commitment to protecting the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Minimum suggested donation: $40 per person/$60 per couple.

Contributions help defray costs of the event, provide lunch for those who have limited resources, and support The Arc’s ongoing work. Payment can be made at the event but RSVP is required. Please let the organizers know of any dietary restrictions and needed accessibility accommodations Deadline to RSVP is Nov. 30.

FFI: Wendy, 651-604-8070 or wendyg@arcmn.org ■

A Christmas Carol Guthrie Theater presents Dickens’ classic Christmas story, 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 is 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: 612-377-2224, www.guthrietheater.org/visit/access_services

Edgar Allan Poe’s Nutcracker (the un-ballet) A new ensemble-created musical, blending Poe with the holiday favorite, featuring artists with and without disabilities. At Interact Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, 1860 Minnehaha Ave. W., St. Paul. AD offered 11:30 a.m. Wed, Dec. 2. ASL offered 11:30 a.m.

Wed, Dec. 2, 3 p.m. Sat, Dec. 5 and 7 p.m. Wed, Dec. 9 and Fri, Dec. 11. Tickets regular $20, Ask about Dec. 2 Arts Access Matinee, reserve the DIS/Cover $5 ticket price. Wednesday shows are reduced to $5 for everyone. DIS/Cover the Arts $5 tickets available to people with disabilities plus one companion per person. Wheelchair seating and large-print playbills available. Tickets are limited, so reservations are encouraged. FFI: 800838-3006, 651-209-3575 x117, www.brownpapertickets. com/event/2370996, www.interactcenter.com

Open Flow Forum Join the Artists with Disabilities Alliance 7-9 a.m. Thu, Dec. 3 at Carleton Artist Lofts community room, 2285 University Ave. W., St. Paul. For Dec. bring holiday art, treats and an inexpensive gift to exchange. On the First Thur of each month artists with disabilities and supporters have this no-cost opportunity to share visual art, writing, music, theatre and other artistic efforts with each other in an informal, fragrance-free setting with refreshments. Enter on the north side of the building (not the light rail side). The meeting room is directly opposite the security entrance. Facilitators are Pamela Veeder,

Accessible fun- p. 13

Pg 12 November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

Influence decision-making

UPCOMING EVENTS Advocacy Take transportation access survey ADA Minnesota and the Great Lakes ADA Center seek participants for a national survey, Transportation Access and Experiences. It is designed to improve understanding of accessibility of public transportation for people with disabilities. It is conducted by the ADA Participation Action Research Consortium (ADA-PARC), a collaborative research project of seven ADA regional centers. The larger project focuses on community living, community participation and work/economic participation disparities of people with disabilities. The survey will improve understanding on transportation access of people with disabilities and provide information to make improvements at regional and national levels. People with disabilities are urged to share their personal experiences with public transportation. The survey can be found at https://unco.co1.qualtrics.com/SE/ ?SID=SV_00wcGeTOzGL2lQ9 More project information is at www.adaparc.org Attend town hall forums The Minnesota Stroke Association and Brain Injury Alliance team up to host 2015 Town Hall Forums. Share personal stories about brain injury and other disabilities with legislators. The final three events are 4-6 p.m. Wed, Nov. 11 at Regions Hospital Rehabilitation Institute, Second Floor, 640 Jackson St., St. Paul; 6-8 p.m. Tue, Nov. 17 at Whitney Senior Center, 1527 Northway Drive, St. Cloud; and 2-4 p.m. Sat, Dec. 5 Matthews Park Community Room, 2318 29th Ave. S., Mpls. FFI: Erica Schimel, 612-378-27542, 1-800-669-6442; erica@braininjurymn.org Housing options outlined Anyone searching for innovative housing options for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities should attend Creative Housing: Bringing the Pieces Together, with The Arc Greater Twin Cities, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat, Nov. 14 at DoubleTree Hilton, 2200 Freeway Blvd., Brooklyn Center. Keynote speaker is Caryn Sullivan, Pioneer Press columnist and author of Bitter of Better: Grappling with Life on the Op-Ed Page. Sullivan has an adult son with autism. Attend a resource fair, meet service providers and attend breakout sessions on housing issues. Cost is $25, which includes lunch and refreshments. Sponsored by The Arc Greater Twin Cities, Hennepin County, the Minneapolis Area Association of REALTORS, the Minnesota Department of Human Services and Washington County.

FFI: 952-920-0855, www.arcgreatertwin cities.org/housing.aspx Policy summits set The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) hosts policy

summits in preparation for the 2016 legislative session. Sessions at 10 a.m.1 p.m. Sat, Nov. 14 at Arrowwood Lodge, 6967 Lake Forest Road, Baxter and Sat, Nov. 21 at Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, 1460 Curve Crest Blvd, Stillwater. Meet legislators, hear about upcoming issue MN_CCD and other groups are working on, enjoy lunch and discussion of issues, and present testimony. The event is free but preregistration is requested. FFI: jo@mnccd.org

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.

Making the Move from Early Childhood Special Education to Kindergarten is 911 a.m. Sat, Nov. 14 at PACER Center.

Kindergarten is a big step in any child’s life. For a child with disabilities, being ready for that step often requires some intentional preparation. By working with the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) team, parents can plan for their child’s success and help make the first school experience a good one.

Transition: Pathway to the Future is 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tue, Nov. 17 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1300 E. Main St., New Prague. Transition planning is an important step in preparing students with disabilities for life after high school. Participants at this workshop will learn how to help students achieve their dreams and goals. FFI: PACER at 952-838-9000.

In Greater Minnesota, call 800-537-2237 (toll free), www.pacer.org

Info/assistance Crisis Link line open A new Crisis Link has been launched as part of MinnesotaHelp.info, the state’s comprehensive website for services, resources and information. Crisis Link connects people with resources for dealing with a variety of intense situations, including mental health and/or substance abuse problems for both children and adults, need for emergency housing or longer term housing, fear of being harmed, or need for health care, food, a job or transportation. Crisis Link has an extensive listing of contact information for helping organizations, primarily government and nonprofit agencies, including suicide and domestic violence hotlines.

It features an online chat service avail-

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

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

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

We look forward to hearing from you!

Please call (612) 726-9341.

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 in-kind support from the Olmstead Implementation Office. FFI: Rick Cardenas, 651-224-5279, rgcardenas5279@gmail.com

able from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays to ensure people get to the information they need.Crisis Link is integrated into Minnesota’s information and assistance system that includes, in addition to the Minnesotahelp.info website, the Senior LinkAge Line at 1-800-333-2433, or Disability Linkage Line at 1-866-333-2466.

FFI: http://tinyurl.com/minn-crisis-help

Medical Assistance Program; adults with disabilities and Medicare beneficiaries with chronic health conditions and Minnesotans dually eligible for Medical Assistance and Medicare. FFI: 1-877-5231518, www.ucare.org

Vision loss group offers activities Vision Loss Resources offers free and low-cost activities in the Twin Cities for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Life skills classes for those with low vision; card games, craft classes, book clubs, walking groups, dinners out, special outings and technology classes are among the offerings. Participants need to RVSP to participate. FFI: RSVP hotline 612-843-3439; activity phone 612-2535155, 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 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 incomebased Minnesota Health Care Programs, such as Minnesota Care and Prepaid

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 at Co. Rd. C-2), Roseville. FFI: 651-645-2948. A family support group meets in St. Paul on the second Wednesday of each month at 67:30 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 651354-0825.A full calendar of all events is offered online. FFI: 651-645-2948, www.namihelps.org

Volunteer, Donate Share a smile Brighten the day of a senior citizen in north or southwest Minneapolis and have fun. Visit an elder and do things together: movies, games, crafts or just friendly conversation. Hang out with a senior on a regular basis and do things that you both enjoy, like watching a movie, playing games or friendly conversation. Onetime or ongoing opportunities through the NIP Senior Program. FFI: Jeanne, 612746-8549, www.neighborhoodinvolve.org Open the Door to Education Help adults reach their educational goals and earn their GED. Tutor, teach or assist in a classroom with the Minnesota Literacy Council. Give just 2-3 hours a week and help people expand their opportunities and change their lives through education. The literacy council provides training and support and accommodations for volunteers with disabilities. FFI: Allison, 651-251-9110, volunteer@mnliteracy.org, http:// tinyurl.com/adult-opportunities ■

Kent’s Accounting Service, LLC

Kent Fordyce

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

Fax: 952-472-1458 • 612-889-2959

• fordyce6@aol.com

November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11 Pg 13

PEOPLE & PLACES Hearing Loss Matters documentary - from p. 8 The documentary makes the point that age-related hearing loss is more than a personal inconvenience; it’s a public health issue with wide-ranging social impacts. Recent research links age-related hearing loss to significantly greater likelihood of developing dementia, increase in hospitalizations, falls, isolation and severe episodes of depression. However, a growing pool of technologies and communication strategies can help those experiencing age-related hearing loss and their families, friends and co-workers to overcome the challenges it poses.

Hearing Loss Matters is focused on and the medical and social consequences referenced above pertain to those who experience hearing loss later in life and are used to communicating by listening and using

ACCESSIBLE FUN Accessible Fun - from p. 11 Mike Price and Dan Reiva. Contact Jon at VSA Minnesota for accommodations. FFI: 612-332-3888, http:// vsamn.org/artists-disabilities/

The View from Here Normandale Department of Theatre presents a comedy about a woman with agoraphobia who longs to embrace the outside world, at Normandale Community College, Fine Arts Building, 9700 France Ave. S., Bloomington. ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Fri, Dec. 4. Make reservations in advance and request seating near the interpreters as seating is limited in the theater. Tickets $10; $5 NCC student/staff/senior.

FFI: 952-358-8884, www.normandale.edu/theatre

The Snow Queen Park Square Theatre presents the regional premiere of a musical adaptation of a Hans Christian Andersen story, at Park Square Theatre, Proscenium Stage, 20 W. 7th Place, St. Paul. AD offered 7:30 p.m. Fri, Dec. 4.

ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, Dec. 13. Captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat., Dec. 18-19 and 2 p.m. Sun, Dec. 20.

Assistive listening devices available. Tickets ASL/AD/ OC single ticket discount is half-price for patron and one guest (regular $38-58); age 30 and under: $21; senior age 62+: $38; rush tickets: $22 cash only, available 10 minutes before performance; subject to availability. FFI: 651-291-7005, www.parksquaretheatre.org

The Cocoanuts Guthrie Theater presents a Marx Brothers romp, at Guthrie Theater, McGuire Proscenium Stage, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. ASL/AD offered 1 p.m. Sat, Dec. 5 and 7:30 p.m. Fri, Dec. 11. Captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Fri, Dec. 11 and 1 p.m. Sat, Dec. 12 and Wed. Dec. 16.

Tickets reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for captioning (regular $34-85). FFI: 612-377-2224, www.guthrie theater.org/visit/access_services

spoken language – not to those who are culturally deaf and primarily communicate using American Sign Language.

The documentary grew out of the work of a task force the commission convened to study age-related hearing loss and healthy aging. The task force was chaired by former Rep. Tom Huntley and commission member John Wodele, both of whom personally experience hearing loss. It was made up of health care professionals, consumer organizations, state agencies, the insurance industry and policy makers. The task force concluded their work this summer and made recommendations for addressing this growing issue that can be found on the commission’s website.

For more information about age-related hearing loss, the latest research, options for addressing it, where to get help and needed public policy, go to www.hearinglossmatters.org ■

CabarABLE: Work features artists with disabilities Patrick’s Cabaret hosts two nights of performances by artists with disabilities, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Fri and Sat, Nov. 13-14 at Patrick’s Cabaret, 3010 Minnehaha Ave. S., Mpls. Tickets are $10 at the door or $8 from participating artists. Artists received 100 percent of the proceeds. Group discounts are available for disability service organizations.

Following the success of November 2014’s “LoveABLE Cabaret,” in partnership with VSA Minnesota, the state organization on arts and disability, Patrick’s Cabaret is pleased to bring back the cabaret event focused on performing artists with disabilities. It has been re-branded as an annual “CabarABLE” series. In the series’ second year, artists with disabilities share pieces on the topic of work in its broadest sense: exploring labor, employment, and the work of everyday life. CabarABLE: Work presents a different line-up of performers on each night of the twoevening event. Audiences will be treated to the original lobby. Call ahead or check the website for schedule changes. Interpreted tours are also scheduled on other days. On the second weekend of each month, free tours are offered for visitors with memory loss, Alzheimer’s and their friends or care partners. ASL offered 1 p.m.

Sun, Dec. 6, at the Institute and 2:30 p.m. Sun, Dec. 6 at the Purcell-Cutts House at 2328 Lake Place, Mpls., then again 7 p.m. Thu, Dec. 10 at the Institute. Free.

FFI: 612-870-3000, 612-870-3131; www.artsmia.org

A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol New Century Theatre presents a musical comedy at City Centre, 615 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. AD offered 3 p.m.

Sun, Dec. 6. Tickets $24-27. FFI: 612-339-7007, accessible@broadwayacrossamerica.com, www.hennepintheatretrust.org/accessible

Mainly for Kids: Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas Lyric Arts Company of Anoka presents a story from the children’s book series, at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, 420 E. Main Street, Anoka. ASL offered 2 p.m.

Sat, Dec. 5, 2:00 PM. Further accommodation information for Lyric Arts can be found in the Christmas in the Airwaves listing. Tickets $10-22; $5 discount for ASL seats. FFI: 763-422-1838, www.lyricarts.org

A Charlie Brown Christmas Stages Theatre Company presents the Peanuts Christmas story, at Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. AD/ASL offered 4 p.m. Sun, Dec. 6.

Sensory-friendly offered 10 a.m. Sat, Dec. 12. Captioning offered 1 p.m. Sat, Dec. 19. Tickets $20, $17 senior 60plus, $13 student. FFI: 952-979-1111, option 4, ask for accessibility pricing. FFI: www.stagestheatre.org

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Two children’s theater companies present their versions of the story of the ill-behaved Herdman children, who turn a Christmas pageant upside-down. GREAT Children’s Theatre is staging the show at Paramount Theatre, 913 St. Germain St. W., St. Cloud. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sat, Dec. 5. Tickets $14-19. FFI: 320-259-5463, www.GreatTheatre.org SteppingStone Theatre is staging the show at SteppingStone Theatre for Youth Development, 55 Victoria St. N., St. Paul. AD offered 7 p.m. Fri, Dec. 11. ASL offered 4 p.m. Sun, Dec. 13. Tickets reduced to $10 access rate (regular $16; youth/senior 55 and older $12). FFI: 651-225-9265; www.steppingstonetheatre.org

Winterlights: Celebrating the Season Mpls Institute of Arts, 2400 Third Ave. S., Mpls. typically hosts interpreted tours on the first Sun of the month at 1 p.m., with exceptions noted. Find the “Tours meet here” red circle by the Information Bar in the upper

Arc Minnesota honors many - from p. 7 ganizing stakeholders and hosting forums to identify key housing issues. In 2014, the chapter held housing resources. Key partnerships and promotion of legislation have resulted in an additional $100 million for housing developments.

The Bill Sackter Citizenship Award, for an outstanding individual with intellectual or developmental disabilities, went to Jameson Crawford. Crawford works as data entry specialist and information technology contact at Achieve Services. He is a board member of Achieve Clean, a company that produces environmentally-friendly laundry detergent and provides employment training and business experience.

He has contributed many valuable ideas for Achieve Clean. Because of his expertise with computer spread sheets, the business is able to better keep track of employee payroll and product-related data. Crawford also runs his own eBay business and visits his legislators regularly to provide them with insight into the needs of a person with disabilities. ■

‘Here I Am’ Exhibit at MRA Three dozen Minnesota artists with disabilities have artwork in the “HERE I AM” exhibit at MRA - The Management Association, through the end of 2015. Originally submitted for VSA Minnesota’s Arts Access Chautauqua, the 30 artworks along the main hallways at the MRA headquarters reflect where the artists feel they are today as individuals with disabilities. Artists are listed on the VSA Minnesota website. The free exhibition can be viewed during normal business hours, 9 a.m.

- 4 p.m., at 9805 45th Ave. N., Plymouth, just off Highway 169 near County Road 9. A reception for the artists and MRA employees will be held 10:30 a.m. Mon, Dec. 7. MRA, formerly TruSight, is a not-for-profit employers association that supports more than 4,000 employers with human resources leadership and management services. The exhibits it hosts provide opportunities for persons with disabilities to share insight into their disabilities through artwork and personal biographies.

works of artists of all experience levels working in a variety of genres including music, dance, storytelling and poetry.

The Nov. 13 host is Laura Cannata, who will also share some of her poetry.

Performers are Maureen Pranghofer— music/storytelling; Marie Cooney— storytelling; Alec Sweazy—music; Bill Johnston— storytelling; and Colleen Cilwick—choreography. Nov. 14 host is Leslye Orr, who will share her monologues. Other performers are Paul Mabon—monologue, Mike Cohn— dance, Rebecca Krahn—guitar music, Alison Bergblom Johnson—storytelling and Ole Olson Onstage (Jon Skallen), a short play Audio describers and ASL interpreters will be available. The venue is accessible, and audiences are asked to refrain from using scented products such as perfume and hairspray. As with all Patrick’s Cabaret shows, 100% of ticket sales go to the artists. FFI: 612-724-6273, www.patrickscabaret.org, scott@patrickscabaret.org for group tickets ■

More events information VSA Minnesota is at http://vsamn.org The website has a large calendar at in the upper right hand corner of its home page. For information on galleries and theater performances around the state join the Access to Performing Arts email list at access@vsamn.org or call VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or statewide 800-8013883 (voice/TTY). To hear a weekly listing of accessible performances, call 612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883. Another web events’ listing is http://c2net.org (c2: caption coalition, inc.), which does most of the captioned shows across the country. Facebook is another way to connect with performances. Sign up to connect with Audio Description Across Minnesota (http:// tinyurl.com/ d34dzo2). Connect with ASL interpreted and captioned performances across Minnesota on Facebook http:// tinyurl.com/FBcaption Another resources is Minnesota Playlist, with a recently updated website calendar with all the ASL-interpreted, audio described, captioned, pay-what-you-can shows and other features. Go to http:// minnesotaplaylist.com/calendar ■

Pg 14 November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11

Radio Talking Book November Sampling 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.

Listen to the Minnesota Radio Talking Book, either live or archived programs from the previous week on the Internet at www.mnssb.org/rtb. Call the Talking Book Library for a password to the site. To find more information about Minnesota Radio Talking Book Network events go to the Facebook site at http://tinyurl.com/ RadioTalkBook. Audio information about the daily book listings is also on National Federation for the Blind (NFB) Newsline. Register for NFB Newsline by calling 651-539-1424.

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

Chautauqua • Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m.

A Matter of Breeding, Nonfiction by Michael Brandow, 2015. 10 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 20. Michael Brandow traces the commercial rise of the purebred dog. He reveals the sordid history of the pedigree dog industry and shows how our brand-name pets pay the price with devastatingly poor health. Read by Audray Rees.

Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

The Girls of Mischief Bay, Fiction by Susan Mallery, 2015. 12 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 24. Nicole, Shannon and Pam are all having issues with husbands or romance. But they find through romance and heartbreak, laughter and tears, life is richer with friends at your side.

L, S - Read by Janelle Mattson.

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

Going Somewhere, Nonfiction by Brian Benson, 2014.

Nine broadcasts. Begins Nov. 24. Brian has a million vague life plans but no sense of direction. So when he meets Rachel, a self-possessed woman who daydreams of bicycling across the states, he decides to follow her wherever she’ll take him. Read by Jim Gregorich.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

Friendswood, Fiction by René Steinke, 2014. 13 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 25. Friendswood, Texas, is a Gulf Coast town of church suppers, oil rigs, hurricanes, and football games. When a disaster threatens the peace, it pulls on the community common thread. Read by Andrea Bell.

PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

Unfair, Nonfiction by Adam Benforado, 2015. 12 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 17. Our nation is founded on the idea that the law is impartial, but the law may, in fact, turn on hidden biases. Unless these biases are addressed, the social inequality seen now will only widen.

Read by Jan Anderson.

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

Miss Hazel and the Rosa Parks League, Fiction by Jonathan Odell, 2015. 14 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 17.

Hazel and Vida - one wealthy and white, the other poor and black - have two things in common: the devastating loss of their children, and a deep and abiding loathing for one another. But when Vida is hired to take care of Hazel and her son, they find they have things in common. RE - Read by John Marsicano.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 11 p.m.

We Know How This Ends, Nonfiction by Bruce Kramer and Cathy Wurzer, 2015. Nine broadcasts. Begins Nov. 26. 2010 had been a good year for Bruce Kramer. But a floppy foot and a leg weakness led to a shattering diagnosis: ALS. Suddenly, Kramer’s outlook on life was transformed. Read by Arlan Dohrenburg.

After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.

Magonia, Fiction by Maria Dahvana Headley, 2015.

11 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 18. Since she was a baby, Aza has suffered from a debilitating lung disease. When Aza catches a glimpse of a ship in the sky, her family blames her medication. Only her best friend, Jason, listens. Between her family, Jason, and this new world, where do her loyalties lie? Read by Judith Johannessen.

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 Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

Dodger, by Terry Pratchett, and How to Catch a Bogle, Where Silence Gathers, Fiction by Kelsey Sutton, 2014.

by Catherine Jinks; Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) 11 broadcasts. Begins Nov. 18. For as long as she can reis airing You Must Remember This, by Michael Bazzett, member, Alexandra Tate has been able to see personified and Lines of Defense, by Stephen Dunn; The U.S. and Emotions, and she’s found a best friend in Revenge.

Us (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing Northern Slave, Black He’s her constant companion as she waits outside Nate Dakota, by Walt Bachman, and Degrees of Freedom, by Foster’s house, clutching a gun. Read by Isla Hejny.

William D. Green. ■ Abbreviations: V – violence, L – offensive language, S – sexual situations.

REGIONAL NEWS

Continued from p. 6

Concussions sideline popular “Radio Free Current” DJ A key disc jockey has resigned from 89.3 FM, the Current. David Campbell, who hosted “The Local Show” and “Radio Free Current” stepped down in mid-October. While dissatisfaction with his work was a factor, Campbell also said he is dealing with health issues.

Campbell played hockey in his youth and sustained several concussions. He said those have resulted in learning disabilities and attention-deficit disorder in his adult years. He said it has become more difficult to keep up with his work, but that his requests to be reassigned couldn’t be worked out. Campbell had been at the station, which is part of Minnesota Public

Radio, since 2007. He has also been a member of a local band.

Campbell is one of two Twin Cities media personalities to speak out about concussions and their effects. KMSP-TV Meteorologist Ian Leonard sustained a concussions playing soccer several months ago. He has returned to his on-air duties after taking a medical leave, but has had to take a number of measures to deal with aftereffects from the head injury.

Leonard is a longtime supporter and volunteer with Special Olympics Minnesota and its Polar Plunge events. ■

— Find more Regional News on p. 15 —

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November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11 Pg 15

Teen will be sent to autism treatment facility

REGIONAL NEWS

Continued from p. 14

Fort Snelling’s housing opens Veterans, including many with disabilities, have moved into refurbished barracks and stables at Fort Snelling. The Upper Post Veterans Community held an open house in October to show off accommodations for 58 military veterans.

The apartments are furnished and have been a big hit with new residents. Residents began moving in several months ago. The housing is next to Historic Fort Snelling, a state living history museum. Some residents enjoy the space as a safe place to live and pursue hobbies such as art. Other appreciate secure housing where they can live with therapy dogs.

The refurnished buildings have community and technology rooms, as well as a community center. The development is part of a larger initiative aimed at ending homelessness among the state’s military veterans. At the opening ceremony Minneapolis VA Health Care System Executive Director Patrick Kelly was among those whose spoke on the need to provide housing for veterans.

The $17.2 million project was developed by CommonBond Communities, with assistance from a wide range of donors. The Minnesota Twins provided the technology room and also invited the live-in veterans to a game this fall. ■ (Source: Pioneer Press)

PrairieCare, Medica in dispute Brooklyn Park-based PrairieCare dropped out of Medica’s provider network recently, claiming the insurer limits mental health care for children and teens without justification and beyond the norm at other health plans. But Medica has disputed that claim, saying that PrairieCare patients staying longer at the hospital and requiring readmission at higher rates than those treated by other health care providers. The dispute means that Medica subscribers won’t have access to PrairieCare facilities at in-network prices.

PrairieCare is a private company that employs about 400 people. It has six locations in the Twin Cities metro area and one in Rochester. Owned by two child psychiatrists, the mental health provider does not release financial information. Medica is one of the state’s largest health insurers, with about $125 million in operating income on $3.5 billion in revenue during 2014. It employs about 1,300 people.

“I mainly worry about parents whose kids are in an emergency situation having higher out-of-pocket costs, and not knowing that’s the case,” Sue Abderholden, executive director of the National Alliance of Mental Illness Minnesota, said to the Star Tribune. The contract dispute went public in September after PrairieCare sent letters to patients notifying them of the potential change in its network status. Last year, about 360 children and adolescents with Medica coverage obtained inpatient and partial-inpatient care at PrairieCare.

In the near term, PrairieCare will continue to serve admitted Medica patients under the in-network contract until they complete treatment, said Tom Lehman, government relations manager for PrairieCare.

In a statement, Medica said its network of providers still includes “full-capability systems” such as Allina and Fairview that will meet the treatment needs of subscribers. When needed, Medica will make out-ofnetwork exceptions for PrairieCare services. ■ (Source: Star Tribune) Verdict announced - from p. 6 to receive inadequate blood flow. Attorneys for Anesthesiology P.A., the private practice that provides anesthesia services at the hospital, denied that was the cause of the injury.

Lakoskey had to sell his mechanic business. Intensive therapy through the Courage Center’s ABLE program helped him gain strength and mobility in his legs — to the point he could use a walker to cross a 50-foot platform in a couple of minutes. But then grant and insurance funding ran out. Now he hopes money from the lawsuit will allow him to replace his broken-down wheelchair and resume therapy. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

A Waseca teen who was accused of planning to kill his family and attack his school will spend time at an autism treatment facility in Georgia. In September John LaDue, 18, had pleaded guilty to possessing an explosive device. Waseca County officials have agreed that LaDue should be sent to the Devereux Autism Treatment Facility in Kennesaw, Georgia. It is a secure facility that helps people 21 and other who have severe emotional and behavioral disorders.

LaDue received a 10-year stayed sentence. He will not have to serve that sentence if he completes treatment and undergoes supervision in a halfway house. He will be on probation for 10 years and could go to prison if he violates the probation. If all goes as hoped for, he will transition from the halfway house back into the community.

“Tragedy was avoided and hopefully this will be a tale of hope for similar situated individuals with this disorder,” said Waseca County Public Defender Dawn Johnson said.

In 2014 LaDue was accused of planning to kill his family and start a fire in rural Waseca to distract first responders from the school. LaDue planned to go to the Waseca Junior/Senior High School. His plan called for setting off bombs during lunch, killing the school resource officer, starting fires and then shooting students and staff. A 180-page journal found at the teen’s home outlined the attack in great detail.

Authorities, who searched the locker and LaDue’s bedroom, said they confiscated chemicals, several guns, ammunition and a few completed explosives.

He was charged with six counts of possessing explosive devices. As part of the plea agreement, five counts will be dismissed. LaDue pleaded guilty to a single felony count of possessing an explosive device after nearly a year-and-a-half of legal battles over what should happen to him. ■ (Source: KSTP-TV)

Fight over access lawsuits goes to Congress Congressman Ted Poe (R-Texas) introduced a bill that he said will improve the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by protecting small business owners from lawsuits over access. A number of the lawsuits have been in Minnesota.

“The ADA is a vital law that is meant to make American businesses more accessible to the disabled.

But the integrity of this important law is being threatened,” said Poe. “Most of these business owners believe that they are in compliance with the ADA and have even passed local and state inspections. However… certain attorneys and their pool of serial plaintiffs troll for minor, easily correctable ADA infractions so they can file a lawsuit and make some cash.”

The ADA Education and Reform Act of 2015 would ensure small businesses to have the opportu-

nity to fix access violations. The bill has the support of several business groups.

Poe said that the bill will only be able to prevent a lawsuit by giving the business an allotted amount of time to fix the infraction, but it does not deal with any lawsuit that is already been filed.

Poe and other members of Congress met recently with Amy Rowland, owner of the Bulldog Northeast bar and grill in Minneapolis. Rowland is one of many business owners who was sued by Paul Hansmeier on behalf of a group of people with disabilities. Hansmeier has filed more than 100 lawsuits in Minnesota.

After spending $15,000 in legal fees on a preliminary hearing and facing tens of thousands more for future court dates, Rowland settled her case for $8,000.■ (Source: Talk Radio News, Star Tribune)

St. Louis River trail restored

Youth league makes accommodations

The Grassy Point Trail along the St. Louis River has had its share of vandalism and damage due to high water levels. Now a group of Duluth area residents is working to improve the trail and improve its accessibility. Dwight Morrison, from the Wheels on Trails Organization, said even when the trail was functioning, it wasn’t very wheelchair- or scooter-friendly. That is changing.

With the city’s push to improve the prospects for the St. Louis River Corridor, Morrison said the Grassy Point project was something he could get behind. It makes sense, he said, with the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act this year.

Improvements include rails along the boardwalk to prevent wheelchairs from drifting off and going into the river. Trail boards are being replaced. Workers are also switching out some boards for more width.

Turnaround areas are available so no one has to put a chair in reverse.

In the next few years, a loop along the river edge will lengthen the trail and allow people with any type of disability to enjoy nature and take in this unique spot, Morrison said. The people working on the project come from Trillium and Udac. Both agencies serve people with disabilities. It’s a multiyear project that gets its funding through a grant from the Duluth Superior Area Community Fund.

The group of people working on it this month said if the trail becomes more accessible, the increased use might keep vandals out. ■ (Source: Duluth News-Tribune)

Gloria and David Nathanson’s lawsuit against the Spring Lake Park Panther Youth Football Association has been settled. It’ll establish a disability access fund, provide $3,000 toward their son Dov’s college fund and cover about $5,000 in legal fees. The family sued the youth football organization after running into resistance to their requests to accommodate Dov Nathanson, a deaf fourth grader.

But the family recently moved to White Bear Lake, where their son is able to get what they couldn’t get in Spring Lake Park: sign-language interpreters and someone beating a drum to correspond with the cadence of a quarterback’s calls.

The Nathansons and Spring Lake Park group disagree about the issue. The youth group contends that disability access laws don’t apply to a nonprofit association run by volunteers. Costs were cited as a hardship. They also claimed that the drum alerted opponents to plays. But the Nathansons said accommodations should be made. They and a local Lions Club paid for interpretation after the Fridley school district quit providing an interpreter.

The Nathansons and two of their four children are deaf. David Nathanson has been allowed to be an assistant coach at White Bear Lake. Coaches and fans there said the accommodations have gone smoothly.

The Lions Club there has also helped pay for interpreters. ■ (Source: Minnesota Public Radio, Star Tribune)

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Pg 16 November 10, 2015 Volume 26, Number 11