May 2016 Edition - Access Press

Imperfect jumps, Pg 7

Volume 27, Number 5

Piper makes the case for facility help

by Access Press staff

Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Commissioner Emily Johnson Piper is calling for changes at Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center. After an April 26 visit, she said the center needs more beds for Minnesotans waiting for treatment. It also needs security improvements and more nursing staff. To make those changes the center needs financial help from the 2016 Minnesota Legislature.

Piper’s visit was meant to highlight problems and encourage action by state lawmakers, in the form of a $30.3 million package of facility improvements. She participated in a roundtable discussion with representatives from Minnesota Hospital Association, legislators, community partners, advocates and patients. She also met privately with employees to hear their concerns.

“Addressing patient care and employee safety at Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center has been my focus from Day One,” Piper makes case - p. 15

May 10, 2016

www.accesspress.org

Uncertainty as session nears end

by Jane McClure

Minnesotans with disabilities, their families and caregivers face uncertain times as a May 23 adjournment date looms for the 2016 Minnesota Legislature. Advocates working on many issues were forging ahead as Access Press went to press, hanging on to an attitude of “it isn’t over until it’s over.”

But without House and Senate agreement on funding for key issues, many advocates are apprehensive.

They are as weary of the fight as they are worried that without important funding for initiatives, a ripple effect of service cuts will spread across the state. There are fears that people with disSupporters of the increase in compensation for caregivers filled a plaza by the abilities will have to State Office Building April 19 to call for the needed funding.

Courtesy photo continue to live in poverty and lack adequate caregiver support.

“We need to demonstrate to supporters that And there is weariness and frustration we’re in it until the end,” said Susie Schatz of among advocates, who are tired of lip service Lutheran Social Services. She is one of many and of not being listened to. They tire of the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disadmonition to come back in 2017 and try again abilities (MNCCD) leaders working on issues. for funding.

Uncertainty as session nears end - p. 3

Anyone you know?

Access Press calls for award nominees Minnesotans with disabilities play many roles in their communities, as individuals or as part of a group. They may testify on legislation at the capitol, do volunteer work, organize fellow community members or work to make a big difference in the lives of others. They are often unsung heroes, doing work that is important and yet not in the headlines.

Charlie Smith Award winner Jessalyn Akerman-Frank used American Sign Language to deliver her speech.

File photo

Individuals and groups with records of exemplary community service and commitment to others are worthy of nomination for the 2016 Access Press Charlie Smith Award. Readers are urged to nominate people they know.

The award will be presented Friday, November 4 at the newspaper’s annual banquet. Please save the date.

The Access Press Board of Directors has announced the start of the award nomination period. Nominations will be taken until 5 p.m. Wednesday, August 15. Information on the award can be found at www.accesspress.org under the “Charlie Awards” tab. Email access@accesspress.org for a form or call 651644-2133 for assistance.

If assistance or accommodations are needed to submit an award nomination, Access Press staff is glad to provide help.

“We, the board, always look forward to seeing all of the outstanding efforts happening within our community as we review nominations for the Charlie Smith Award,” said Access Press Board Chairperson Kristin Jorenby. “Whether it is a group or individual it is high praise to be recognized with this award. Fall seems so far off at this point, but it will be here before we know it and so now is the time to begin drafting your nominations for this year’s award. We can’t wait to have our socks knocked off as we review the accomplishments of the nominees.”

Deaf community advocate Jessalyn Akerman-Frank was the 2015 award winner. Past award winners are: Award nominations sought - p. 15

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

“It’s never over.

You don’t want to be in the position to be down four runs in the ninth inning, but it’s not over until the last out.”

— Derek Jeter

NEWS DIGEST

University’s ICI is public policy honoree.

Page 7

Developmental disability community has seen much change.

Page 2

Scott Adams is back with a new cartoon.

Page 3

Our commentaries address key workforce issues.

Page 4

Play ball!

UCare teams up with Twins.

Page 10

INSIDE Accessible Fun, pg 12 Events, pg 11 From our Community, pg 4 People & Places, pg 4 & 11 Radio Talking Book, pg 14 Regional News, pg 6 & 13

Pg 2 May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5

EDITOR’S DESK

Tim Benjamin There is a crisis in the disability community and it has been going on for years. About 10 years ago, I got an email from someone with a significant disability. He wrote me saying that his staffing issues were getting out of control, and he wasn’t sure how much longer he could go on. This person was in a real crisis situation. He had just gained his independence, moving out of his hometown nursing home and into the metro area, where he could take advantage of all the community resources, education, transportation, accessibility, etc.

He could not go back home and he could not maintain his independence when staffing was so unstable. His overnight help had not shown up the last few nights and he had laid in his bed throughout the night with no help, no help getting to the restroom, no help getting water, no help getting repositioned or anything else that might’ve come up. This gentleman is still struggling with staffing. More and more people are struggling with home care staffing issues.

Over the years, this has created learned helplessness in the disability community. Too many people are in fear of not getting the care they need if they speak out.

Persistent attempts to control the uncontrollable are becoming too difficult, hope has its limits. Wishful thinking is not a sufficient strategy. People are believing there is nothing that can be done to change the situation so they have resigned themselves to “this is the way it is.”

The disability community has had thousands of advo-

cates that have worked hard and continue to work hard to make changes to home and community care. But they are feeling like they’re hitting their heads against a wall. There have been allies in government who have tried to help the situation over the years. The Department of Human Services has had supporters that have also tried. People are beginning to think that these authorities are hiding their heads in the sand and that potentially many folks will end up in institutions, again.

What’s so difficult for me is that there are many people with disabilities, employed and taxpayers, who are assets to their community. There is real potential for them to lose their job and their autonomy if this catastrophe is not resolved.

What was the point of creating an inclusive community, for creating educational opportunities, for creating job opportunities, for creating transportation for people with disabilities, for creating expensive infrastructures like accessible transportation and accessible stadiums when people with disabilities don’t have staff to get them out of bed? Why were all these millions spent in the first place?

Now in this crisis we are starting to see home care agencies hesitant to take on clients that have high needs because it’s so difficult to staff and make a meager profit.

The administration and training has become incredibly costly because of rules and regulations that are trying to maintain safety and eliminate fraud in community living.

The resignation rate is incredibly high. And why wouldn’t it be when someone could make more money delivering Jimmy John’s or working at Burger King with very little training and with no one’s life in their hands?

The most vulnerable in our communities are being compromised because it costs too much and the state

and federal government can’t sustain it. So again, what was the point of any of it, to give up on it now?

The greatest kudos go to so many of are lobbyists and organizations that have supported those advocates and allies to create a better world for all of us but a five percent increase is not going to help. Two years ago we got a five percent increase and here we are, with no change in this predicament. Actually, it doesn’t look like we’re going to get the five percent this year either.

Legislation was proposed to bring the wage scale out of poverty levels salaries and it wouldn’t even be heard by the committees. It would be way too costly and over the governor’s budget so it was just buried. Nobody wants their parents to go into an institution or nursing home, nobody wants to go into a nursing home but the authorities continue support them. Is this the environment we really want our young adults, to be deadened?

Nobody should be forced out of community life to go where they don’t want to be. The Olmstead plan requires the state and the federal government to allow people with disabilities to “enjoy life in the least restrictive environment.” But what does that mean, if it’s not enforced or that our government and our communities are not willing to back it with real change, with real tax investment?

We need real commitment to those that we’ve already committed to. People have been promised they would be taking care of and supported, in a way that they can thrive and live their lives out doing virtuous deeds for the community. What will it take? How many people will have to be hospitalized or die before we recognize this crisis? Even the “death with dignity” legislation was dropped in committee after some pretty heated discussion. Doesn’t this tell us that the community doesn’t want people to be able to take their own lives? What are people to do? The stress and anxiety is making young people, old in a hurry. ■

HISTORY NOTE

Kennedy, Johnson were key community allies October 2016 marks the 45th anniversary of the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities (MNCDD). This article is excerpted from a longer organizational history.

In the 20th century, institutional living was the norm for individuals with developmental disabilities. By the late 1940s, family members formed the “parent movement” in response to overcrowding and increasingly deplorable conditions in state institutions. The movement spawned groups like the Arc that fought to bring about accountability and respect.

The ultimate goal became closing of institutions and the creation of housing in communities. When John F. Kennedy became president in January 1961, the parent movement had a key ally. On October 11, 1961, he stated: The manner in which our nation cares for its citizens and conserves its manpower resources is more than an index to its concern for the less fortunate.

It is a key to its future…we as a nation have for too long postponed an intensive search for solutions to the problems of [individuals with intellectual dis-

abilities]. That failure should be corrected.

In January 1963 a presidential panel issued recommendations for research, needed resources, treatment and care, education and employment training, legal protection and the development of federal, state and local programs. The importance of addressing “years of general ignorance, prejudice and superstition” was acknowledged as a major hurdle for progress.

The MR and Community Mental Health Centers Construction Act passed on October 31, 1963. It contained three construction programs; established centers to conduct research into causes and treatment of intellectual disabilities, developed university-affiliated facilities to train professionals, and constructed community facilities so people could have a place to obtain services.

Federal involvement continued. President Lyndon Johnson established a committee in 1966 that focused on residential care, funding for training for support personnel and volunteers, and making services available to all regardless of income.

In 1970, Congress passed Public Law 91-517,

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

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the Developmental Disabilities Services and Facilities Construction Act, to assist and fund states in developing plans for provision of comprehensive services to persons affected by developmental disabilities with a focus on deinstitutionalization and developing alternative housing in communities as a priority.

Guidelines were given for states to establish planning councils that would develop an annual plan and advise governors on services to improve the quality of life for persons with developmental disabilities.

Throughout the process, the importance of preserving the rights and dignity of the individual was a priority.

The councils were directed to organize and coordinate services offered by existing agencies and other sources, and provide grant monies to secure services and fund new initiatives and construction of facilities.

With the start of MNCDD, change was on the way. ■ The History Note is a monthly column sponsored by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, www.mnddc.org or www.mncdd.org and www.partnersinpolicymaking.com.

May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5

Uncertainty as session nears end - from p. 1 On April 19 hundreds of Minnesotans with disabilities gathered for one last push on key needs. Inside the Department of Transportation cafeteria, groups strategized, made signs and discussed work to be done that day to press for Medical Assistance (MA) spend-down reforms. Inside the State Office Building, people with traumatic brain injuries called state leaders to explain the need to change the spend-downs.

Outside of the State Office Building a large group rallied to make the case for the caregiver wage increase and support the Best Life Alliance.

The alliance is leading the charge for a five percent increase in caregiver wages.

With many caregivers making about $11 per hour on average, there are more than 8,700 job openings around the state. Many caregivers are working two or three jobs to make ends meet. Others have left the profession.

“We know how important it is for caregivers, for people with disabilities, all across the state of Minnesota, that we get a five percent rate increase in 2016,” ARRM CEO Bruce Nelson said at the rally. He and others were joined by legislative allies. They led the crowd in chants and cheers, with supporters waving signs on a drizzly morning.

By early May policy and spending bills had gotten through the initial House and Senate floor process.

The House and Senate hadn’t hammered out their differences on health and human services funding. Conference committee will be taking up the various bills and trying to reach compromise. Bills then go back to the House and Senate, and then to Gov. Mark Dayton for his signature.

At a recent MNCCD gathering there were questions and soul-searching about how to draw more attention and support for key issues for Minnesotans with disabilities. How MNCCD and its member groups should present issues and represent themselves is a topic that is likely to be discussed long after the session ends.

One oft-heard comment was that while disability community members hear support for their issues when meeting with state lawmakers one-on-one, their votes aren’t always consistent.

Issues raised range from what is seen as a lack of action on implementing the state’s Olmstead Plan, which is meant to fully integrate people with disabilities into the community, to the frustration of having key needs pitted against each other. Another huge red flag for advocates is that there is a view of people with disabilities as not being seen as contributing to their home communities.

Focusing more on working directly with the governor’s staff to have budget input earlier in the

process is one idea MNCCD leaders discussed. Another tactic is to focus more on systems change and long-term solutions.

House, Senate pass first bills Bills passed out of committee by the April 15 deadline contained mixed news. Neither the House nor the Senate included MA reform and spend-down changes, which would increase the disability spenddown limit to 100 percent. It would also increase the asset limits for individuals with disabilities to $10,000 for individuals and $18,000 for couples. The measure got through needed committees but didn’t make it into the final bill.

The House had a one-time provision for the five percent caregiver increase coming out of committee.

The Senate bill didn’t include the increase.

Then it was on to the floor. The full House approved its health and human services, state government and public safety supplemental bill in the early morning hours of April 29. The vote capped more than 12 hours of a sometimes free-ranging debate.

The Senate passed its supplemental bill April 28.

On the House side, Rep. Steve Drazkowski (RMazeppa) successfully amended the bill to require that the state contract with an outside vender to analyze and determine if everyone signed up for Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare is indeed eligible for the benefits. Drazkowski believes that the state is wasting millions of dollars on people who aren’t eligible for the programs. He cited past state audits as a reason for the outside study. Savings generated would go into a fund that would be dedicated to the five percent wage increase sought by the Best Life Alliance.

Pg 3

That move angered some five percent campaign supporters in the House, who criticized the bill for not doing more to cover the wage increase.

The action now shifts to the conference committees, before bills return to the House and Senate.

Hearings have wound down for the most part and it becomes a waiting game.

A number of measures are still in play, including mental health, special education, bonding, parks and trails access, and public safety measures. Still alive is the quest for funding for the Department of Labor and Industry to do education and outreach to small businesses on their obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. It was going to Senate Finance Committee as Access Press went to press. This legislation is prompted by a flurry of accessibility lawsuits filed against small businesses.

Advocates for the Transportation Independence for Many or TIM’s Bill had gotten $25,000 to fund a task force to look at autonomous vehicle technology or socalled “driverless vehicles” in the Senate, but an appropriation request was set aside. As of deadline the measure had stalled in the House.

Another measure generating attention is that of allowing people with disabilities and the elderly to live in small houses on family property. The homes are described as “granny pods.” The legislation would make it legal, unless a local government bans it, to allow temporary trailer-like homes to be placed on caregivers’ land, even if zoning ordinances otherwise would not allow it. The homes could be located there for up to a year, and the resident must be under health care. The homes would be limited to 300 square feet.

■

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Pg 4 May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

by Rick Hammergren

Actions create the ‘perfect storm’

This “perfect storm” is a confluence of federal and state policy and rule changes that have the potential to devastate funding streams vital to programs and services for people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The effects of the storm are already apparent, but the most damaging policy changes and rate cutting formulas are still on the horizon and will wallop service providers in the coming months. These policy changes affect a broad range of providers of Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) who rely heavily on several Medicaid waiver funding sources. For this story about the “storm,” I will focus on nonprofit day training and habilitation (DTH) service providers across the state.

About 100 DTH organizations provide employment and life enrichment day services for more than 25,000 Minnesotans who have IDD and employing about 19,000 staff. Many of these programs have been answering the need for these services in cities, small towns, and communities for more than 50 years. Here are the challenges currently affecting this vital social service sector: • Rates for HCBS Waiver providers have been severely lagging behind the inflation rate for more than a decade. Since 2006, the inflation rate went up 21 percent while provider rates only increased by 10.5 percent. During this time, the Department of Human Services (DHS) has implemented many rule and business practice changes that have caused provider expenses to go up, without any funding to cover these costs.

• The Best Life Alliance, a coalition of HCBS providers has been campaigning for more than a year to secure an immediate rate increase of five percent. Legislators across the state have signed onto the coalition’s bill, with a majority of senators and representatives from both the Republican and Democrat caucuses coauthoring the bill and supporting the principles of the initiative. However, the governor has provided no funding in his 2016 budget, and the House and Senate have “zero targets” for new HCBS funding. While providers greatly appreciate the support for the alliance’s bill, it is only meaningful if followed by a fiscal appropriation and a commitment to secure a long-term funding mechanism to assure that provider rates, at a bare minimum, keep up with inflation.

• In January of 2014 DHS implemented a new financing vehicle for HCBS services known as the Disability Waiver Rate System (DWRS). When this system becomes fully functional in January 2019, most DTH providers will have rate cuts averaging at least 6 percent with many providers facing 15-20 percent cuts and as much as 35 percent. These price cuts are being driven by seriously flawed rate formulas, buried in the detail of the DWRS. So far, efforts to fix this problem in negotiations with DHS have been unsuccessful.

• A workforce crisis exists now for the IDD service sector with average employee turnover rates at 37 percent annually. Currently, there are an estimated 9,000 va-

cant positions for direct service staff. The system is straining to hire good employees and retain them in a revved up economy with the unemployment rate running below 4 percent for months.

• The U.S. Department of Labor is promulgating a new regulation, which would change definitions of overtime and exempt salaried staff rules. Annualized implementation expense for DTH providers will average $153K per agency and over $16.8M annually for the sector.

This federal rule change could be implemented as early Rick Hammergren as September this year, and presents yet another unfunded mandate that will further tax the capacity of the system as nonprofits struggle to survive.

• DHS is also seeking to increase HCBS provider licensing fees. Introduced early in the 2016 legislative session, the proposed increase for some providers exceeded 500 percent. DHS has since revised the original proposal, and cut the growth by half for many providers; however an increase of only 250 percent is no more feasible for nonprofits who cannot afford yet another unfunded mandate.

This public policy trend and change in funding priorities has been emerging since the fall of 2013 and is entirely unprecedented in scope and potential harm that could befall on people who rely on human service providers. The outcome of the DWRS is very clear and will culminate with severe rate cuts for nonprofit DTH service providers when, under current law, full implementation of the DWRS rate formulas begins in January 2019.

Without exaggeration, most DTH programs across Minnesota will be struggling to stay in business – unless something changes! The perfect storm has been forecast and can be readily seen on the horizon – it is incumbent on Gov. Mark Dayton and Minnesota Legislature to act. If these priorities cannot be adequately addressed in the 2016 legislative session, they must be a priority next January in the shining, “buffed-up” capitol. ■ Rick Hammergren, Senior Public Policy Director at Opportunity Partners, has worked as a direct support professional and advocate on behalf of people with disabilities for more than 40 years.

Delays have a huge cost for our entire community

by Lance Hegland

I’m sad providers are asking for more time to comply with proposed overtime rules for frontline managers. I understand direct support challenges, including our need for care workers and supervisors to work long hours and extended work weeks to cover our workforce shortage. I agree we must ensure older adults, people with disabilities, workers and families access to quality supports — supports needed to maintain health, safety, employment, education, family, friends and community.

But is it appropriate to delay long-overdue overtime protections for low-income supervisors? To delay justice for workers who are mostly women and minorities battling multi-generational poverty? We need government to adequately fund programs before we can afford to offer economic justice. But why delay?

Haven’t we learned that delay just enables us to continue our neglect, continue shifting burdens and continue avoiding accountability? That neglect increases risks and harm to others and ourselves? That delay merely furthers exploitation of workers and families while simultaneously denying older and disabled Minnesotans access to quality, continuity and cost-efficient supports?

We don’t deserve delay. We can’t afford procrastination.

Minnesota Department of Human Services and legislators sat by and didn’t act when granted a temporary delay of the Department of Labor’s Fair Labor Standards Act Home Care Rule. Minnesota’s leaders were aware of the rule. They received the December 15, 2014 “Dear Colleague” letter from federal officials.

The letter stated: We are sensitive to states’ budgetary constraints. However, implementation of across-the-board [overtime limits or “caps”] risks violating the [Americans with Disabilities Act] if the caps do not account for the needs of individuals with disabilities and consequently places them at serious risk of institutionalization or segregation. … Finally, where implementation of the Home Care Rule disrupts services, states should collect and monitor data to ensure that the service disruption does not place individuals with disabilities at serious risk of institutionalization.

Minnesota’s lack of action, funding and guidance has led to 40-hour-work week caps by providers unable to afford overtime. Older adults and people with disabilities have lost nearly 17 percent of available labor (i.e. 48 hours per week under the Minnesota Fair Labor Standards Act down to 40 hours under the Home Care Rule). Any reasonable person would have anticipated this outcome. Our prior workforce shortage combined with insufficient reimbursement rates from public programs left providers barely scraping by. Then unemployment drastically dropped, fueling an existing aggressive entry-level labor market and wage inflation.

Delays cost community - p. 5

May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5

Delays cost community - from p. 4 Our neglect has contributed to insufficient wages, benefits, and training for workers as well as further erosion of our workforce. We can no longer compete in today’s labor market. We experience increased turnover, support inconsistency, and cost. It’s compounded our previously existing workforce shortage.

Our dwindling workforce is rapidly raising the risks for citizens. Many of us are struggling to meet basic needs. People have experienced actual harm. Some must cut back on employment, education, family, friends and community activities — becoming more isolated. Some were hospitalized or moved in with family, friends, group homes or other institutions.

These more restrictive and segregated settings are apparent violations of the U.S. Supreme Court Olmstead decision and the Minnesota Jensen settlement.

Even when gifted with an earlier regulatory delay, Minnesota failed to act promptly to protect citizens who’ve struggled for several years. Minnesota failed to address historically inadequate funding for direct support reimbursement and subsequent poverty wages for workers. Minnesota’s leaders failed to promote our commonly held values around equality, justice and diligence. Disability, aging and anti-poverty community leaders failed to advocate sufficiently for these principles on behalf of our constituents. Provider organizations’ leaders failed to demand equality and justice for our clients and workers.

Requesting a similar delay for frontline supervisors of home- and community-based services after we squandered opportunities offered by the Home Care Rule delay demonstrates our complacency and lack of accountability. A delay allows continued exploitation of support workers. It continues undemocratic and discriminatory behavior of those relying on support services, continues harming our families and simply prolongs our injustices and perpetuate our injuries.

Now more than ever, we need leaders who refuse to make excuses for Minnesota — leaders who refuse to enable complacency and lack of accountability. We need leaders who refuse the same ol’ band-aid approaches, who push for truly effective, long-term investments in our citizens, families and communities — investments in our ability to support each other and ourselves. We need leaders who will diligently defend our commonly held values, demand equality, justice and diligence, and support a sufficiently large, qualified and available direct support workforce. We don’t need those leaders who would pander proposals and are incapable of addressing our real needs. We need leaders capable of unifying and inspiring our community toward bold, creative and impactful solutions. ■

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Access Press invites readers to write Access Press welcomes letters to the editor and commentary pieces from readers, on topics of interest to Minnesota’s disability community. Letters should be no more than 500 words, with 750 words per commentary. Ask the editors if more space is needed.

Letters and guest commentaries must be signed by the authors or authors. With letters, a writer’s hometown is published but not a street address. Please send contact information in case the editors have questions about a letter or commentary. Contact information isn’t published unless the writer specifically requests that the newspaper do so.

Pictures of the author can be published with a guest commentary but aren’t required.

Access Press asks that letters and guest commentaries be specifically written for the newspaper. Letters must have a focus on disability issues and ideally, a focus on those issues as they affect Minnesotans.

Form letters will not be published.

Because Access Press is a non-profit publication and must follow regulations on political partisanship, political endorsement letters are not published. That is true for candidates’ endorsements as well as for ballot questions.

Before making a submission writers are always encouraged to contact the newspaper to discuss ideas or to ask questions about From Our Community submissions, at 651-644-2133 or access@accesspress.org Let the newspaper staff know if accommodations are needed to submit a letter or commentary.

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

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

Pg 6 May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5

REGIONAL NEWS Nursing home cited for neglect A northwestern Minnesota nursing home, with a history of patient neglect cases, was cited for neglect in the death of a resident with a severe cognitive disability. The man died after nurses gave him 10 times his prescribed dose of morphine. Hs name was not disclosed. The fatality occurred at the Mahnomen Health Center in Mahnomen, a community in northern Minnesota. State health officials issued a report on the man’s death in April, following an investigation.

“The facility failed to have adequate policies in place to ensure medications were transcribed accurately and then administered correctly,” stated a report from the Minnesota Department of Health.

The patient was suffering from chronic kidney disease and had been transferred to hospice care at Mahnomen Health Center the day before the medication error occurred. Upon arrival, his physician added an order of morphine sulfate delivered hourly via syringe. However, the order was incorrectly transcribed onto the patient’s record, causing the patient to receive a dose 10 times larger than the amount prescribed.

A nurse at the facility told investigators that he had questioned another nurse about the size of the dosage, but he was told it was correct. The error was detected about 15 minutes after the dose was given.

Employees notified the patient’s family and they asked staff members to administer a drug, Narcan, to block the effects of the morphine. The patient’s breathing had decreased to two breaths per minute.

The family requested more Narcan, but the patient died before staff members could return from the hospital with the drug.

The resident’s primary physician said a large dose of morphine would have contributed to the death, according to the state report.

This is not the first investigation of Mahnomen Health Center by the state in the past five years. A staff member stole narcotic pain medications from facility residents a couple of years ago. A choking death led to another neglect finding and a lawsuit against the center in 2011. More recently it was found that the center failed to report the injury of another residents, who suffered two hand lacerations that required seven stitches. A nursing assistant last August found a patient in her room with bleeding from her fingers.

The patient was sent to the hospital’s emergency department but the incident was not immediately reported to the state. ■ (Source: Star Tribune, Valley News)

———— More Regional News on page 13 ————

Large autism study begins The University of Minnesota joined with 19 other institutions in April to launch the largest autism research study in U.S. history. Its centerpiece is an online registry of 50,000 people and their families, to uncover how genetic and environmental differences influence the course of the developmental disability.

People diagnosed with autism and their parents can register online, type in personal and medical information, and receive kits and instructions for sending in saliva samples by mail. Participants will help researcher gather an unprecedented amount of data, at relatively minimal expense, that points to genetic patterns in the disorder.

“There are approximately 50 genes that have been identified that probably play a role in autism,” said Dr. Suma Jacob, a U of M professor in pediatrics and psychiatry leading the local study, “but there are 300 to 500 or more that may be involved, and we need large numbers of families to be able to find that information.”

Autism afflicts an estimated one in 68 children, and is often diagnosed by age 4, when communication, be-

havioral and cognitive deficits emerge, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

It is found more frequently in boys than in girls. In the broad national context of autism there are many mysteries, including the prevalence of autism in children in Minnesota’s growing Somali immigrant community.

Part of the university’s involvement is helping the study attract a diverse population. Jacob said he anticipates participation from throughout the Midwest.

Overall, the university will recruit as many as 2,400 people with autism, along with their parents, over the next three years to take part in the study.

The new study, known by the acronym SPARK and funded entirely by the Simon Foundation, will seek genetic and other explanations for these kinds of demographic variations.

More information about the study can be obtained by contacting SPARK-MN@umn.edu or 612-6240116. Participants receive $50 gift cards, along with access to information about the latest research and treatment developments. ■ (Source: Star Tribune)

New developer sought in Fergus Falls The city of Fergus Falls is seeking a developer, investor, or visionary group to purchase the 100-yearold Fergus Falls Regional Treatment Center, known as the Kirkbride Facility. Built in 1888, the historic landmark is the most complete intact example of “Kirkbride-inspired” architecture in the United States, and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

The treatment center closed several years ago. The city, historic preservationists and disability community members have tried since that time to find a developer and new uses for the castle-like facility and the rest of the campus. National, state and regional historic groups have tracked the preservation effort closely. Past development plans have failed and there are worries that the historic structure could be demolished.

The architecturally-significant property contains more

than 500,000 square feet of existing facilities, and rests on 19 acres of land within the city limits of Fergus Falls. It is currently available for redevelopment, with millions of dollars of incentives available. Located at the hub of higher education for the region, the solid structure and sprawling layout of this property make it a prime candidate for education, health services, housing, “green” industry or technology companies.

“The city of Fergus Falls has an architectural gem on their hands, and the right group could really take it and make it shine,” said Dan Peterson, a senior associate with Colliers International/Minneapolis-St. Paul.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to repurpose a historic facility in great condition, and bring it into the future so it leads to economic activity for years to come.” ■ (Source: Colliers)

Fairview, UCare to combine Fairview Health Services and UCare announced April 5 that they have signed a letter of intent to combine their provider and payer expertise with a commitment to provide innovative, fully integrated health care for Minnesotans. The two organizations hope to finalize details of the transaction and secure regulatory approvals by mid-summer 2016.

Upon execution of an agreement, UCare will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fairview. Jim Eppel will remain as UCare president and CEO. UCare and PreferredOne, which came under Fairview’s sole ownership in January, will form Fairview’s health plan division. The two payers, which are the fourth and fifth largest in Minnesota, offer complementary portfolios of services to two different sets of clients.

“This proposed combination mirrors a growing national trend of payer/provider partnerships and has the

potential to transform how health care is delivered and financed in Minnesota,” said David Murphy, Fairview’s interim CEO. “Deploying the synergies and shared visions of these two trusted Minnesota health care organizations will enable us to pilot innovative ways to improve patient outcomes, simplify the health care experience and reduce the cost of care.”

“I share in David’s excitement about joining these two health care leaders,” said Eppel. “Combining forces with Fairview and its extensive, high-quality provider network will enable us to pave the way for a truly value-based and integrated system which better serves Minnesotans now and into the future.”

Specific details of the agreement are being worked out. Overall workforce reductions are not anticipated as a result of the transaction. ■ (Source: Fairview)

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

Please call us for more information.

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

May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5

Pg 7

University’s ICI program is 2016 public policy honoree

PEOPLE & PLACES Skydiver prepares for ‘imperfect jumps’

Kevin Burkart uses skydiving to draw attention to Parkinson's.

Courtesy photo

After watching his father’s Parkinson’s disease symptoms progress, Kevin Burkart wanted to bring awareness to Parkinson’s. He used his skydiving skills to jump out of a plane 100 times in 24 hours.

Burkart’s first Parkinson’s skydiving fundraiser raised more than $48,000, but he knew he could do more. Two years later, Burkart set out to complete 200 jumps in one day. Bad weather interfered, but he still completed 150 jumps, a new world record, and raised $78,000, working with the National Parkinson Foundation and Twin Cities Skydiving Club based in Baldwin, Wisc.

Burkart was planning 300 jumps when a life-changing snowmobile accident caused the immobilization of his left arm. But like his father, he is a fighter. A year after the accident he devised a way to skydive with one arm and was already planning his next event, the disease that was taking over his father’s life. Burkart jumped 151 times and set a new record for onearmed skydives in a day. To date, he has completed three skydiving fundraising events totaling 401 jumps and raising nearly $250,000 for the fight against Parkinson’s.

In order to complete consecutive skydives, Burkart puts his body through immense stress, but it’s worth it to him if more people are learning about Parkinson’s.

“The involvement in the disease has really helped a lot… We know the disease well and that has helped us fight it,” he said.

Burkart is still determined to complete 300 jumps in a day. On June 15, Burkart will attempt “300 Imperfect Jumps” where he hopes to raise $300,000 for the fight against Parkinson’s disease. To help raise awareness or learn about the jumps, visit www.Parkinson.org/300Jumps ■

The Arc Minnesota’s annual Public Policy Recognition Event will recognize the University of Minnesota Institute on Community Integration (ICI) as its 2016 honoree. The banquet is 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 25 at Midland Hills Country Club in Roseville.

Since 1985, ICI has provided training for people with disabilities and direct care staff, provided agencies with advice on best practices, informed policymakers in the creation of disability policy, and performed research and disseminated data to the public about how people with disabilities can be most fully included in their communities.

A federally-funded University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, the ICI is part of a national network of similar programs committed to advancing all aspects of community for people with disabilities. Through collaborative research, training, and information sharing, ICI improves policies and practices to ensure that all children, youth, and adults with disabilities are valued by, and contribute to, their communities of choice.

During its 30 years of service, ICI has also influenced a wave of social change supporting equality and inclusion for people with intellectual and develop-

Anne Roehl, Coordinator of Person-Centered Thinking initiatives at the Institute on Community Integration, was the keynote speaker at a recent state conference of The Arc Minnesota.

Courtesy photo

mental disabilities. Many Minnesotans have been among the many beneficiaries of ICI’s research data, training curricula, and online resources. For more on ICI’s work, visit https://ici.umn.edu/ Banquet reservations are due Wednesday, May 11 but people can check to see if space is available. Inquire, register and pay at www.arcmn.org ■

ProAct wins major accreditation ProAct eRecycling Services, a Minnesota electronics recycler employing people with disabilities, has achieved national environmental accreditation for its work in collecting and handling outmoded and discarded electronic devices and equipment. NSF International announced that ProAct is now officially registered for two key certifications: Responsible Recycling (R2): 2013 and RIOS: 2006.

“The trust factor in our systems and environmental soundness of what we’re doing just took a major leap with these two certifications,” said Tim Hovey, manager of ProAct eRecycling Services.

The certification was a two-part process, with an initial audit and then a later audit to assure that all systems and procedures meet standards. ProAct spent nearly five months to establish a quality, environmental health and safety manual to document its practices.

“The greatest excitement with eRecycling stems from employment of people with disabilities,” said Steven Ditschler, president and chief executive officer of ProAct. “These certifications further prove that we are on the right track and I’m pleased to report that

we have these added credentials for our eRecycling service.”

The nonprofit offers drop off, pickup and packaging services, and many materials are received free of charge. A complete list of the materials accepted, including the items requiring a fee, is available at proactinc.org. ProAct takes most items with cords or batteries, except for devices containing refrigerants and large appliances. It partners with CyclePoint from SourceAmerica, a nationwide electronics recycling network.

Electronics recycling operations are based at 204 Mississippi Avenue in Red Wing, in the city’s industrial park. The nonprofit also offers regular collection hours, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday to Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Fridays. ProAct plans to open a collection site in Eagan serving the Twin Cities shortly.

ProAct eRecycling Services is a service unit of ProAct, Inc. The nonprofit’s mission is to serve individuals with disabilities experiencing barriers to employment and self-sufficiency. ■

Book is finalist for award St. Paul writer Amy Zellmer, who writes about her life with a traumatic brain injury, has announced that her book, Life With a Traumatic Brain Injury: Finding the Road Back to Normal, is a finalist in the Midwest Book Awards. The book is competing with other books in the health category. “This award is a pretty big deal, and I am super proud . . . especially considering I wrote and published it while dealing with the effects of my brain injury,” she said.

The awards recognize quality in independent publishing in the Midwest. This year’s awards attracted 198 titles, entered in 30 categories. All books were

copyrighted in 2015 and entered by publishers from the 12-state Midwestern region (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin).

Winners will be announced at the Midwest Book Awards Gala to be held May 13 at the Olson Campus Center at Luther Seminary in St. Paul. The winning book will receive a gold foil seal to display on its cover, while the other two finalists will receive a silver foil seal to display on their book covers. ■

Pg 8 May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5

Final big push takes place at state capitol to bring needed

Disability advocates and their allies made their case for change at the state capitol with rallies, calls. letters and MNCCD organizing sessions.

May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5

reforms and funding for people with disabilities

The Best Life Alliance, groups from around the state, ARRM CEO Bruce Nelson and Rep. Matt Dean all made the case for legislation.

Courtesy photos from Best Life Alliance, Lutheran Social Services, ARRM and Goodwill/ Easter Seals MN

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Pg 10 May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5

Take them out to the ball game

PEOPLE & PLACES Jacobson competition open for applications

2015 award winners Zach Knuckey and Kelsey Peterson accepted congratulations from Barbara Jacobson, center.

File photo

The Courage Kenny Foundation has announced the start of applications for the Judd and Barbara Jacobson Award. The award is presented annually by the foundation. It honors persons with physical disabilities or sensory impairments who have an entrepreneurial business endeavor.

Established in 1992, the Judd and Barbara Jacobson Award recognizes the pursuit or achievement of a business entrepreneurial endeavor by a person with a disability. The award winner receives a $5,000 cash award to advance their business endeavor. Applicants should demonstrate entrepreneurial skill and spirit, determination, financial need, exceptional personal commitment and have received little or no public recognition. The desired or current business must be one that will be ongoing with a forecasted future (i.e., book publishing costs are not an ongoing business with a forecasted future). Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and reside in in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota or South Dakota. Individuals and groups are welcome to apply for the award. Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute and/or Courage Kenny Foundation employees are not eligible. Applicants must fill out a form and state how they would use the financial award to support their businesses.

Award namesake Judd Jacobson was a Minnesota business leader who became a quadriplegic as a result of a diving accident in 1943. The award exemplifies the business entrepreneurial spirit of Judd Jacobson who was a committed, creative and innovative spirit in

Top and right, Austen Xiong and Minnesota Twins mascot T.C. helped UCare make a pitch April 14 for the more than 700 wheelchair-accessible seats at Target Field. UCare sponsors the seats for people with disabilities who have specialized seating needs. Baseball fans celebrated UCare’s seventh year of sponsoring the seats, and watched the Twins take on the Chicago White Sox. Target Field has outstanding disability accommodations available in all aspects of the ball park experience: drop-off locations, assisted living devices, concessions, first aid/medical care, emergency evacuations, elevators and escalators, gate opening times, and more. A detailed summary of all accessibility features is available in the park’s access guide.

Photos courtesy of UCare

both his vocational and avocational endeavors. His wife Barbara supported him in his life’s work. She attends the award luncheons to congratulate winners.

Funds for the award are made possible by a gift from the late Daniel J. Gainey, a lifelong friend of Judd and Barbara Jacobson.

Two young people with disabilities were recipients of the 2015 award. In 2012, Zach Knuckey, 26, from Duluth, Minn., experienced a stroke in his spine which left him with paralysis. Knuckey’s love of water and an active lifestyle led him to create Waters Edge Guide Service, which provides guided fishing tours and builds custom fishing rods. Kelsey Peterson, 30, from Minneapolis, 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.

Applications for the 2016 award are due Friday, July 29. All applicants will be notified of their application status the week of August 15. The finalists will be asked to participate in an interview on Friday, August 26. The interviews will be held at Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute or may be completed

by Skype. The recipient and runners up will be notified of the selection committee’s decision shortly after the interview.

The winner or winners will attend and be honored at an award luncheon October 6.

Return nomination form and supporting materials by July 29 to: juddjacobsonaward@allina.com Or contact Lindsay Kedzuf, Courage Kenny Foundation, 3915 Golden Valley Road, Minneapolis, MN 55422.

She can also be reached at 612-775-2584. ■

————— In Memoriam ————— Hubers led life of service

Dave Hubers rose to become CEO of one of Minnesota’s largest financial companies. He enjoyed sports and the outdoors, served on a number of boards, and helped disadvantaged students attend college. He also lived most of his life with one arm, after being seriously injured in a car accident as a teenager.

Hubers, 73, of North Oaks, died in March at his Florida winter home. A memorial service was held April 10 in Minneapolis at the University of Minnesota’s McNamara Alumni Center.

“I had always wanted to be the best I could be, but losing my arm made me even more competitive,”

Hubers said in a 2015 memoir. “It made me want to show everyone — especially myself — what I could accomplish despite my disability.”

Hubers grew up in Pease, a small Minnesota community. After graduation from the University of Minnesota in 1965, he began his career at the former Investor Diversified Services (IDS). IDS is now known as Ameriprise Financial. Hubers was CEO of the company from 1993 to 2001.

He enjoyed a number of sports including golf and fishing.

Hubers is survived by his wife Shirley, three daughters and their families, and many other relatives. ■

Morishita was health care pioneer Lynne Morishita, who pioneered national models for elder care and nursing, died in April after living for three years with ALS. A memorial service was held in early May. Morishita was a native of southern California. She became a nurse and later a nurse practitioner. While living in San Francisco she developed the nurse practitioner role at the On Lok clinic which became a model for the national PACE program for care of the elderly. She developed a geriatric day hospital in Los Angeles, which gained national recognition.

Morishita and her family moved to Minnesota in 1992, where she continued her career at area hospitals and at Axis Healthcare. She was known for her consulting and program development work for elders and people with disabilities.

She is survived by her husband, a son and other family members. ■

May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5 Pg 11

UPCOMING EVENTS Advocacy Sign up for Partners in Policymaking The Partners in Policymaking program is now welcoming applications for its nine-month leadership training program. Individuals with disabilities and parents of young children with developmental disabilities will be trained at no cost in monthly sessions starting this fall.

Over the course of eight sessions, participants will become knowledgeable, confident and effective advocates for themselves, their children, and others with disabilities. This groundbreaking program was developed by the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities more than 25 years ago. “Graduates report that they gained a greater understanding of disability law and policies and increased their self confidence in advocating for their needs,” said Colleen Wieck, Executive Director of the Governor’s Council. “Many have become leaders in their own communities as they speak up for people with disabilities.” The program is now offered in almost every state and in many foreign countries. Sessions are held in Bloomington. Deadline to enroll is July 11. FFI: Dolly Parker, dparker@mngts.org Honor All-Star Advocates The MNCCD Grassroots Committee is accepting nominations for the 2016 All-Star Advocates Awards.

MNCCD All-Star Advocates regularly lend their experience and expertise by participating in various advocacy events and activities. Nominations are being accepted until close of business on Thu, May 19th. Consortium leaders ask that nominators use the nomination form MNCCD provides. Winners will be notified Thu, May 26 and will be honored at the MNCCD Session Wrap-Up, 10-11 a.m. Wed, June 2, Minnesota Department of Transportation Cafeteria, 395 John Ireland Blvd, St. Paul. FFI: Jo Erbes, 952-818-8719, jo@mnccd.org

Youth and families Children’s mental health crisis services NAMI Minnesota (National Alliance on Mental Illness) hosts a free class on children’s mental health crisis Services 6-7:45 p.m. Thu, May 19 at Hamline-Midway Library, 1558 W. Minnehaha Ave., St. Paul. The session will give parents of children up to age 18 living with behavioral challenges an overview of crisis services and how to access them. Preregister. There will be ample opportunity for questions. FFI: 651-645-2948 PACER offers workshops PACER Center offers many useful free or low-cost workshops and other resources for families of children with any disabilities. Workshops are at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, unless specified. Advance registration is required for all workshops. Check out PACER’s website and link to the newsletter of statewide workshops that allows participants to pick and choose sessions catered to their needs. Everything You Need to Learn Before Your Child Turns 3 is 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tue, May 17 at PACER Center. Families of children with disabilities ages 2-3 will learn about the transition process from Part C Early Intervention services to Part B preschool services. Topics include transition requirements, Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), Inclusion, and Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals and objectives.

Keyboards for All Learners is offered 6:30-8 p.m., Wed, May 18 at PACER Center. Keyboarding is an essential skill in today’s world. For some students with disabilities, typing on a traditional keyboard can be challenging. The workshop will provide information on Bluetooth keyboards for tablets, keyboard apps for the iPad, and alternative keyboards for the computer to help support students. FFI: PACER, 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237, www.pacer.org

Information and assistance Mental health support offered During May Mental Health Month, NAMI Minnesota and dozens of other organizations are involved in community education about mental illnesses, including creating awareness that effective treatments are available and that people can and do recover. NAMI 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.

An 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 6-7:30 p.m., at Goodwill-Easter Seals, at the Fairview location in room 123. FFI: Sonja, 651357-2077. The partners and spouses support group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at Falcon Heights United Church of Christ, 1795 Holton Street (Holton & Garden). For more information, call Melissa at 651-3540825.A full calendar of all events is offered online. FFI: 651-645-2948, www.namihelps.org Vision loss group offers activities Vision Loss Resources provides free and low-cost activities in the Twin Cities for people who are blind or visually impaired. Life skills classes for those with low vision; card games, craft classes, book clubs, walking groups, dinners out, special outings and technology classes are among the offerings. Participants need to RVSP to participate. FFI: RSVP hotline 612-843-3439; activity phone 612-253-5155, www.visionlossresources.org MCIL offers classes and activities The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living provides many life skills classes as well as fun outings and events for people with disabilities. MCIL is at 530 N. Robert Street, St Paul 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 the alternative format or other accommodations are needed. Events are free, accessible and mostly scent-free. FFI: 651-603-2030 Adult support groups offered AuSM offers free support groups for adults with autism spectrum disorder. Groups include those for adult family members, women with autism spectrum disorders and independent adults with autism. Check the website for upcoming groups. Groups meet at the AuSM offices at 2380 Wycliff St. FFI: 651-647-1083 ext. 10, www.ausm.org 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 programs, 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 joined in income-based Minnesota Health Care Programs, such as Minnesota Care and Prepaid Medical Assistance Program; adults with disabilities and Medicare

Find work ‘success’ Successes in Supported Employment is hosted 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tue, May 10

by Reach for Resources.

Panel members will discuss what’s worked for them and how it has affected their life, given them more independence and given them more self-esteem to do things on their own. Companies including Walgreens and Maynard’s will be there to talk about employees who’ve worked for them and how supported employment has benefited their organization. The event is at Park Tavern, 3401 Louisiana Ave S, St. Louis Park. Scholarships available up to 45 attendees Sponsored through Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities. FFI: www.reachforresources.org beneficiaries with chronic health conditions and Minnesotans dually eligible for Medical Assistance and Medicare. FFI: 1-877-523-1518, www.ucare.org

Volunteer Open the Door to Education Help adults reach their educational goals and earn their GED. Tutor, teach or assist in a classroom with the Minnesota Literacy Council. Give just 2-3 hours a week and help people expand their opportunities and change their lives through education. The literacy council provides training and support and accommodations for volunteers with disabilities. FFI: Allison, 651251-9110, volunteer@mnliteracy.org, http:// tinyurl.com/adult-opportunities Volunteer with Ramsey County Ramsey County offers many volunteer opportunities, and can find accommodations for volunteers with disabilities. One new opportunity allows volunteers to assist Ramsey County Detoxification Center clients through peer support and informational services to help recovery efforts. FFI: Ramsey County Community Human Services—Volunteer Services, 651-266-4090, HumanServicesVolunteer@co.ramsey.mn.us Share a smile Brighten the day of a senior citizen and have some fun.

Spend time with an elder individual on an ongoing basis and do fun things in Minneapolis and suburban Hennepin County. Small groups and families welcome. Youth volunteers must be age 12 or older and supervised by an adult. This volunteer program through Senior Community Services now includes the seniors program formerly served by the Neighborhood Involvement Program. Many volunteer options available. FFI: Jeanne, 952-767-7894, scsvolunteer@seniorcommunity.org ■

Pg 12 May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5

ACCESSIBLE FUN Blessing of the Wheels The Basilica of St. Mary’s Blessing of the Wheels event is 1 p.m. Sun, May 15 at 88 N. 17th St., Mpls. It includes a blessing and bike ride/and stroller/wheelchair walk to follow. The event is in its second year, and people who use wheelchairs and other assistive devices are encouraged to attend. Free. FFI: 612-333-1381

Opportunity Partners gala Opportunity Partners hosts its annual fundraiser Sat, May 14 at Opportunity Partners in Minnetonka. The event, which starts at 5:30 p.m. with as reception and silent auction, includes a dinner, live auction and more. It is the nonprofit’s largest fundraising event of the year. Tickets are $125. FFI: Grace Brennan, 952912-7442, events@opportunities.org

The Art of We Upstream Arts invites the public to join The Art of We, the organization’s 10th-anniversary celebration and fundraiser, 6-9 p.m. Thu, May 19 at American Swedish Institute, Mpls. The event will include a retrospective exhibit and performance featuring artists with disabilities; live music by local band The New Distractions; a short program, live auction, and Fund-a-Need raising support for Upstream Arts’ programs; plus light refreshments, a cash bar, and more. A program is planned at 7 p.m.

Upstream Arts annually serves more than 3500 individuals from birth to 75+ with cognitive, developmental, emotional, behavioral, and physical disabilities, as well as those with visual impairments and those who are deaf or hard of hearing. This year, the organization is running more than 100 programs in partnership with schools, adult day programs, and other community organizations across the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area, Milwaukee and beyond. All Upstream Arts programs are taught by professional artists who are among the most accomplished actors, directors, playwrights, poets, dancers, musicians, and visual artists in the region. The Art of We is free to attend, family-friendly, and fully accessible for people of all abilities (including ASL interpretation). RSVP. FFI: www.upstreamarts.org

Celebration of Aging Playwright and storyteller Kevin Kling headlines Laughing at Our Age 3, Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly’s event 6:30-9:30 p.m. Wed, May 18, at Nicollet Island Pavilion, 40 Power St., Mpls. The fundraiser’s proceeds will support efforts to end isolation and loneliness among Twin Cities elders. Tickets are $50 each. Enjoy desserts, hors oeuvres, a silent auction, cash bar and more. FFI: Michael Haas. 612-746-0726, mhaas@littlebrothersmn.org

The Shining Minnesota Opera presents world premiere and New Works Initiative Production of Stephen’s King’s novel at Ordway Center Music Theatre, 345 Washington St., St.

Paul. Captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Thu, May 12; Sat, May 14 and 2 p.m. Sun, May 15. AD offered 2 p.m.

Sun, May 15. Sung in English with English captions projected above the stage at every performance. Braille, large-print programs and infrared listening systems available at Patron Services in Ordway’s first level lobby. Tickets reduced to half-price for AD patrons (regular $25-200); 612-333-6669, www.mnopera.org

Sideways Stories from the Wayside School Youth Performance Company presents tale from the popular series, at Howard Conn Fine Arts Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave, Mpls. ASL and AD offered 7:30 p.m. Sat, May 14. Recommended for second grade and above.

Tickets $15, child/senior $12, $10 group. VSA discount applies. FFI: 612-623-9080, www.youthperformanceco.org

A moving performance Every Sentence Is for the Birds: the journal of an encounter, is performed by the Moving Company at the Lab Theater, 700 N. 1st St., Mpls. Nathan Keepers and Suzanne Warmanen explore the relationship between a doctor and a young “wild child,” as they encounter one another, leading themselves through discovery and enlightenment. What will they learn from one another? Directed by Dominique Serrand.

AD offered 7:30 p.m. Thu, May 12. Tickets are $32, student $20, FFI: 612-333-7977, www.themovingco.org

The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote Four Humors presents its take on the man who lives in an imaginary world, at Guthrie Theater, Dowling Studio, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. AD offered 1 p.m. Sun, May 15.

Tickets reduced to $20 for AD (regular $22-26). FFI: 612377-2224, www.guthrietheater.org/visit/access_services

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

Sun, May 22. Sensory friendly offered 7 p.m. Fri, June 3. Assistive listening devices, induction loop system, Braille programs and sensory tours available upon request. Tickets regular $16-40, with numerous discounts available. FFI: 612-874-0400, www.childrenstheatre.org

The Changelings

Lakeshore Players Theatre presents a comedy set in ancient Rome, at Lakeshore Players Theatre, 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake. Assisted listening devices available. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, May 15. If no ASL seats are reserved within two weeks of the performance, the ASL-interpretation will be cancelled. ASL tickets are 50 percent off (reg. $23, senior $21, student $18). FFI: 651-429-5674, www.lakeshoreplayers.com

Ten Thousand Things Theater presents the story of a life-changing storm and subsequent exile, at Open Book, 1011 Washington Ave. S., Mpls. AD offered 7:30 p.m. Fri, May 20. Tickets $30, $18 for patrons with vision loss attending AD show and companion, ask about pay what one can tickets. FFI: 612-2039502, www.tenthousandthings.org

Complicated Fun: the Minneapolis Music Scene

The 10th anniversary season of Queer Voices, featuring established and emerging LGBT writers, is held at Intermedia Arts, 2822 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Tue, May 24. Tickets $5-25 suggested donation at the door. FFI: 612-874-2812 or 612-8714444, www.intermediaarts.org

Queer Voices: An LGBT Reading Series History Theatre presents the story of Minneapolis’ 1980s music scene, at History Theatre, 30 E. 10th St., St. Paul. ASL and AD offered 2 p.m. Sun, May 15. Captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Sat, May 28 and 2 p.m. Sun, May 29.

The accessible entrance is on the east side of the building off Cedar Street; the theatre has six spaces for wheelchairs, plus companion seats; hearing enhancement devices and Braille or large print programs are available. Tickets reduced to $20 for ASL/AD/Captioning patrons (regular $30-45). FFI: 651-292-4323, www.historytheatre.com

Zenon Dance Company 33rd Spring Season Zenon Dance Company returns from residencies in France and Cuba for performances at the Cowles Center for Dance & the Performing Arts, Goodale Theater, 528 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, May 15.

Tickets $34; student rush tickets $15 with student ID, 30 minutes before the show. Fifty percent discount to deaf and hard of hearing patrons with the discount code: ZENON33. FFI: 612-206-3600, www.thecowlescenter.org

Diary of a Wimpy Kid the Musical Children’s Theatre Company presents the story of a boy who faces bullies, a big brother, and other challenges, at Children’s Theatre United Health Group Stage, 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls. AD offered 7 p.m. Fri, May 20. ASL provided 7 p.m. Fri, May 20 and 5 p.m.

Trouble in Mind Guthrie Theater presents the story of the 1950s integrated theater production and racism, at Guthrie Theater, McGuire Proscenium Stage, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. Captioning offered 1 p.m. Wed, May 25; 7:30 p.m.

Fri. June 3; and 1 p.m. Sat. June 4. ASL and AD offered 1 p.m. Sat. May 28; 7:30 p.m. Fri. June 3. Tickets reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 for captioning (regular $34-85). FFI: 612-377-2224, www.guthrietheater.org/visit/access_services

Sons of the Prophet Park Square Theatre presents a story of deep needs and unspoken moments of renewal, at Park Square Theatre, Proscenium Stage, 20 W. 7th Place, St. Paul.

AD offered 7:30 p.m. Fri, May 27. ASL offered 2 p.m.

Sun, May 29. Captioning offered 7:30 p.m. Thurs-FriSat, June 2-3-4; 2 p.m. Sun, June 5. Assistive listening devices available. ASL/AD/OC single ticket discount is half-price for patron and one guest with code ACC (regular $40-60); age 30 & under $21; senior age 62 and older: $5 off; rush tickets: $24 cash only, available one hour before the performance; subject to availability. FFI: 651-291-7005, www.parksquaretheatre.org

Queens Sandbox Theatre presents the tale of an aging African-American boxer preparing for his final fight, at Park Square Theatre, Andy Boss Thrust Stage, 20 W. 7th Place, St. Paul. Open captioning offered 7:30 p.m.

Wed-Sat, June 1-4, 7:30 PM. OC single ticket discount is half-price for patron and one guest with code ACC (regular $40-60); age 30 & under $21; senior age 62 and older $5 off; rush tickets: $24 cash only, available one hour before the performance; subject to availability; Assistive listening devices available. FFI: 651291-7005, www.parksquaretheatre.org

Flint Hills ’16 International Children’s Festival The annual festival for children and families runs June 1-5 at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts and Rice Park, 345 Washington Street; Landmark Center and Plaza, 75 W. 5th St., St. Paul. It features school day events as well as family weekend activities June 4-5. Outdoor events (www.fhfestival.org/familyperformances-activities/) are free, and indoor shows are $5. Check the website for events and accommodations including ASL and AD. FFI: 651-224-4222, http:// learn.ordway.org/festival/

Open Flow Forum The Artists with Disabilities Alliance hosts the event at Carleton Artist Lofts community room, 2285 University Ave. W., St. Paul. It is held 7-9 p.m. the first Thu of each month; next date June 2. Events resume in September at a new location. Artists with disabilities

Accessible Fun - p. 13

May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5 Pg 13

ACCESSIBLE FUN

Continued from p. 12

and supporters enjoy a free 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 and Dan Reiva. For special accommodations, contact Jon at VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or jon@vsamn FFI: http://vsamn.org/artists-disabilities/

The Christians Walking Shadow Theatre Company in association with Mixed Blood Theatre presents the story of a church facing upheaval, at Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S. 4th St., Mpls. AD offered 7:30 p.m. Thu, June 2 and 3 p.m. Sun, June 5. ASL provided 7:30 p.m. Fri, June 3 and Thu June 9. Assistive listening available; Tickets reduced to $10 for AD and ASL (regular: $10-30); Brown Paper Tickets. FFI: 1-800-838-3006, www.walkingshadowcompany.org

International Modernism Mpls Institute of Arts, 2400 3rd Ave. S., Mpls, hosts free interpreted tours at 1 p.m. on the first Sun of the month, with exceptions noted. Start under the “Tours meet here” red circle by the Information Bar in the upper lobby except as indicated. 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. FFI: 612-870-3000 or 612-870-3131, dhegstro@artsmia.org

7:30 Sun, June 5. Tickets $20-40 in advance via Brown Paper Tickets; $14-41 sliding scale at the door. ASL/ AD is half-price for patron and one guest. Small venue, so reservations strongly recommended. FFI: 612-2347135, www.theatreprorata.org

Tour for People with Memory Loss James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Ave., St. Paul hosts a monthly sensory-based tour designed for people with memory loss and their caregivers. Each themed tour, usually an hour or less, highlights three rooms in the James J. Hill House and is followed by an optional social time until 11:30 a.m. with pastries and coffee. Tours are offered the first Tue of every month.

Private group tours are available for care facilities.

Tours are made possible through funding from the Bader Foundation. Next tour is 10 a.m. Tue, June 7.

Free. Reservations required. FFI: 651-259-3015, http:// sites.mnhs.org/historic-sites/james-j-hill-house

The League of Youth Commonweal Theatre Company presents an adaptation of Ibsen’s political comedy, at Commonweal Theatre, 208 Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro. AD offered 1:30 p.m.

Sat, June 11, pre-show at 1:10 p.m. Please make AD reservations at least one week in advance, noting if you want a tactile tour at noon. The two-week notice requested for a Braille program. The five-week notice required for ASL interpreting. Assistive listening devices available at the box office; with special seating available for persons with mobility issues. Tickets reduced to $15 for AD and ASL patrons (regular $35; student $15). FFI: 507-467-2525, www.commonwealtheatre.org

Blithe Spirit The Odd Couple Lyric Arts Company of Anoka presents Neil Simon’s comedy about unlikely roommates, at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, 420 E. Main St., Anoka. ASL offered 2 p.m.

Sun, June 5. Lyric Arts reserves Rows H and I for parties including persons using wheelchairs or with limited mobility. ASL interpreters are provided at the first Sun performance of each regular season production. A small number of seats near the interpreters are held in reserve for ASL patrons until two weeks before the performance.

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

Artistry presents Noël Coward’s comedy about a novelist haunted by an annoying ghost, at Bloomington Center for the Arts, Black Box, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington. ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Sat, June 11. AD offered 2 p.m. Sun, June 12. Tickets reduced to $27 for AD and ASL (regular $36, senior $32, age 25 and younger $19, Wed. $3 less). FFI: 952-5638575, www.artistrymn.org

Scapegoat Pillsbury House Theatre presents the world premiere of a story about racial confrontation, at Pillsbury House Theatre, 3501 Chicago Ave. S., Mpls. ASL offered 7:30 p.m. Sat, June 11. AD offered 7:30 p.m.

Sat, June 18. Tickets are pay-what-you-want (regular $25). FFI: 612-825-0459, http:// pillsburyhouseandtheatre.org

The Knight of the Burning Pestle Theatre Pro Rata presents the tale of a theater company and its demanding patrons, at Dreamland Arts, 677 Hamline Ave. N., St. Paul. AD and ASL offered

REGIONAL NEWS

More news on p. 6

Mental health task force set Gov. Mark Dayton has announced the creation of the Governor’s Task Force on Mental Health to advise state leaders on improvements to Minnesota’s mental health systems. Dayton has directed the task force to develop comprehensive recommendations to design, implement, and sustain a continuum of mental health services throughout Minnesota – comprehensive planning that has been missing from past efforts to bolster the state’s mental health system.

“Too many Minnesotans are going far too long without accessing the mental health care they need,” said Dayton. “Those denials damage their overall health, their job opportunities, and their access to safe, affordable housing. This task force will provide the expertise and leadership necessary to address these serious challenges statewide. I look forward to receiving and acting upon their recommendations.”

More than 200,000 adults and 75,000 children in Minnesota live with mental illness. People wait an average of 10 years between the onset of symptoms and before seeking out treatment. The task force will include Minnesotans who have experienced mental illness – either themselves or as a family member – state and local government officials, mental health and other health care providers, as well as judicial and law enforcement officials. It will have ex office members from the legislature and state agencies. Together they will work to identify gaps in the state’s mental health

12th Annual 10-Minute-Play Festival Lakeshore Players Theatre presents plays from around the country, at Lakeshore Players Theatre,

system and propose policy solutions that can help address those challenges across Minnesota.

“This is a critical moment for our mental health system in Minnesota,” said Department of Human Services Commissioner Emily Piper. “We have made advancements in the last year, but we need to continue moving forward on that commitment. I thank the governor for his leadership to identify solutions that will address the gaps that exist in our mental health system, and help to ensure that all Minnesotans can access the treatment, services and supports they need.”

The task force will recommend a comprehensive continuum of care for Minnesotans with mental illness, including new policies, legislative changes, and funding, as well as defining the roles of the various actors within Minnesota’s mental health system, in-

4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake. ASL offered 2 p.m. Sun, June 12. (If no ASL seats are reserved within two weeks of the performance, the ASL-interpretation will be cancelled). Assisted listening devices available. Tickets reduced to $10 for ASL patrons (reg. $19, senior $17, student $15). FFI: 651-429-5674, www.lakeshoreplayers.com

Two Boys Kissing Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus presents a show based on the 2014 Lambda Literary Award Winning work by David Levithan, at Ted Mann Concert Hall, 2128 4th St. S., Mpls. ASL offered 8 p.m. Sat, June 18. Tickets reduced to half-price for ASL patrons (regular $2548, includes all fees). FFI: 612-624-2345, www.tcgmc.org

Art Show: Eddie Albert Twait Vision Loss Resources hosts watercolors by St. Paul artist Eddie Twait as part of a rotating series of exhibits coordinated by VSA Minnesota, at 1936 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls. Hours 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Mon-Fri. Free. Exhibit up thru May. FFI: VLR: 612-871-2222, http:// vsamn.org/artists-disabilities/exhibit-program/

More events information VSA Minnesota VSA Minnesota is at http://vsamn.org The website has a comprehensive calendar at the upper right-hand corner of its home page. For information on galleries and theater performances around the state join the Access to Performing Arts email list at access@vsamn.org or call VSA Minnesota, 612-332-3888 or statewide 800-8013883 (voice/TTY). To hear a weekly listing of accessible performances, call 612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883.

Access Press only publishes performance dates when accommodations are offered. Contact the venue to find out the entire run of a particular production.

Additional resources 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 resource 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 Arts festivals are held throughout the state. Check www.exploreminnesota.com/index.aspx, http:// festivalnet.com/state/minnesota/mn.html, www.fairsandfestivals.net/states/MN/ ■

cluding the state, counties, hospitals, community mental health service providers and others.

Over the last five years, state leaders have invested more than $56 million in mental health initiatives, including $46 million for mental health crisis services, housing for adults with mental illness, funding to increase capacity at mental health facilities across the state, and initiatives to improve children’s mental health.

The Task Force on Mental Health will report back to the governor, legislature, and the public by the end of November 2016, ahead of the 2017-2018 fiscal year budgeting process. Members will be appointed by the governor. See the executive order setting up the task force at http://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/ index.jsp?id=1055-226391 ■ (Source: DHS)

Pg 14 May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5 Luca, with whom she was always in love and who was her best friend throughout her marriage. Now she is alone, estranged from Luca and separated from Paulo.

Read by Ann Hoedeman.

Radio Talking Book

May Sampling

Know someone in need of services?

The Minnesota State Services for the Blind’s Communication Center services are available to anyone who cannot read the printed page for a physical reason. That may be brain trauma, dyslexia or visual impairments. It may also stem from the inability to hold a book or turn pages, such as a person might experience with MS, cerebral palsy or quadriplegia. Anyone who could benefit from the services of the Communication Center, whether it’s the Radio Talking Book or the custom recording services, should be urged to call 1800-722-0550.

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. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The catalog is online at www.mnbtbl.org, click on the link Search the Library Catalog. Persons living outside of Minnesota may obtain copies of our books via an inter-library loan by contacting their home state’s Network Library for the National Library Service.

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

Register for the NFB Newline 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.

Changing the Subject, Nonfiction by Sven Birkerts, 2015. 11 broadcasts. Begins May 25. The digital world affects the way that we read literature and experience art. There is an unprecedented shift underway toward distraction, loss of personal agency, and an increasing acceptance of “hive” behaviors. Read by Jeffrey Weihe.

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

The Wright Brothers, Nonfiction by David McCullough, 2015. 10 broadcasts. Begins May 18. On a winter day in 1903, on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Wilbur and Orville Wright entered history.

The age of flight had begun Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m.

Andrea Gillies, 2015. 12 broadcasts. Begins May 24. For her whole life, Nina has been in a love triangle with two brothers: Paolo, whom she married, and

broadcasts. Begins May 16. Before the night is over, this country house will be a backdrop to a tragedy and the birth of a secret. Seventy years later, Detective Constable Sadie Sparrow is seeking answers to the secret. L - Read by Don Gerlach

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

As Always, Nonfiction by Madeleine Gagnon, 2015.

15 broadcasts. Begins May 16. In her memoir, Madeleine Gagnon examines who she has become in the last seven decades: little girl, sister, lover, mother, intellectual, feminist, and writer. She has become an important voice in the international women’s movement. The complex social changes around her are reflected in her life. Read by Pat Muir.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 11 p.m.

Natural Born Heroes, Nonfiction by Christopher McDougall, 2015. 17 Br. Begins May 17. Ancient Crete was the birthplace of classical Greek heroism, skills still practiced today. They enabled resistance fighters in World War II to abduct a German general from the heart of Nazi occupation. Read by Arlan Dohrenburg.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.

The Swans of Fifth Avenue, Fiction by Melanie Benjamin, 2015. 11 broadcasts. Begins May 18. Under Babe Paley’s flawless appearance – with money, friends, and fame, she longs for love and connection.

Truman Capote gives that to her, but she never imagines the destruction he will leave. L - Read by Mary Hall.

Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnight Among the Ten Thousand Things, Fiction by Julia Pierpont, 2015. Nine broadcasts. Begins May 24. An anonymous package arrives with the power to destroy Jack and Deb’s marriage. As their marriage spins apart, their children are on the brink of adulthood feeling freedom for the first time. L, S - Read by Julie Bolton.

PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.

The Other Paris, Nonfiction by Luc Sante, 2015. 14 broadcasts. Begins May 19. Paris, the City of Light, has always included the darker side as well: the city of the poor, outcast, criminal, eccentric, and nonconforming. That city has nearly vanished, but its traces are in the bricks and stones of the contemporary city.

Read by Michael Piscitelli.

After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.

Seeker, Fiction by Arwen Elys Dayton, 2015. 13 Br. Begins May 26. The night Quin Kincaid takes her oath, she will become what she has trained to be her entire life – a seeker. As a seeker, Quin will fight to protect the weak and the wronged, standing for light in a shadowy world. Read by Janelle Mattson.

Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.

Real Tigers, Fiction by Mike Herron, 2016. 14 broadcasts. Begins May 12. London’s Slough House is where disgraced MI5 operatives are reassigned to spend the rest of their spy careers pushing paper. But when one of these “slow horses” is kidnapped, the agents must breach defenses of Regent’s Park to steal valuable Intel in exchange for their comrade’s safety. L - Read by Constance Crane.

Your Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing The Fear Cure, by Lissa Rankin, M.D.; For the Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing Playing with Fire: School for S.P.I.E.S., by Bruce Hale, and Ghoulish Song, by William Alexander; Poetic Reflections (Sunday at noon) is airing The Darkening Trapeze, by Larry Levis, and Four-Legged Girl, by Diane Seuss; The Great North (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing Tony Oliva, by Thom Henninger.

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

The Lake House, Fiction by Kate Morton, 2015. 21

Around the Dial

Weekend Program Books

Abbreviations: V – violence, L – offensive language, S - sexual situations, RE – racial epithets

Disability Viewpoints

Disabled and Proud Disabled and Proud is aired on KFAI Radio, 6:30-7 p.m.

Thursday. Host Sam Jasmine and her guests explore a wide range of topics that are important to people with disabilities. KFAI is at 90.3 FM in Minneapolis and 106.7FM in St. Paul. Listeners outside of the Twin Cities, or those looking for a past show, will find the show’s archives online at www.kfai.org/ disabledandproud To be added to the show’s email list, contact disabledandproud@tcq.net.

Disability Viewpoints is a public access television show by and for people with disabilities. Mark Hughes and his team of co-hosts feature current news, interesting people and groups, and events in Minnesota’s disability community. The show is produced by volunteers at CTV North Suburbs in the Twin Cities. The show has a Facebook page, and a web page at www.ctv15.org/programs/local/dv ■ Access Press would be interested in listing other regularly scheduled broadcast, cablecast or podcast programs by and for people with disabilities. Anyone with questions can contact jane@accesspress.org

Thanks to all of you for supporting Access Press FRIEND ($50-$74) Monte Blair (in memoriam) Ellen Boucher Susan Bulger Yoshiko Dart Teresa Dock Mary England (in memoriam) Steve & Jo Erbes Lee Ann Erickson Lael Gatewood Mike Gude Pamela Hochrein Marjorie Huebner Laurie Jarvis Barb Kane Sandi Lane Anna Marchall Gene Martinez John Marty Christopher Meyer Brandon Miller Kathleen Moran Lee Ohnesorge William & Joen Overby Tavia Lynn Parker Kelly Rathcke Ann Rogers Luther Granquist & Anita Schermer Virginia Schwartzbauer Hammer Residences Life by Designs, Inc. LOTTSA Tax & Accting Services Ten Thousand Villages MBW Company

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May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5 Pg 15

Award nominations sought - from p. 1 2014 – Christine Marble and Wendy Devore, CareerVentures 2013 – Cal Appleby, Augsburg College 2012 – Charles “Chuck” Van Heuveln, St. Paul School District 2011 – Jeff Bangsberg, MN Department of Health 2010 – Steve Kuntz, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) 2009 – Anne Henry, Minnesota Disability Law Center 2008 – Pete Feigal, Co-Founder of Tilting at Windmills 2007 – Jim and Claudia Carlisle, People Enhancing People 2006 – John Smith, University of Minnesota 2005 – Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) 2004 – Rick Cardenas, Co-Director of Advocating Change Together (ACT) 2003 – Margot Imdieke Cross, Minnesota State Council on Disability “We always enjoy reading the applications submitted for the award. It’s one of our most fun tasks at the paper,” said Access Press Executive Director Tim Benjamin. “We have many people in Minnesota doing great things for people with disabilities. Every year, we are impressed by the wide range of activities our award nominees take on.”

Benjamin noted that the banquet is not only a time for nominees to share a fun evening with friends and family, it is also a time for disability community mem-

bers to gathering and share in community accomplishments. “It’s a great time and we encourage everyone to save the date and to consider submitting a nomination.”

The award winner is chosen by the newspaper’s board. The winner and finalists will be honored in the September issue of Access Press.

The Charlie Smith Award is named in honor of the late Charlie Smith Jr., founding editor of Access Press. He was a well-known Minnesota disability rights advocate and founded the paper as a way to provide information and organize the community around key issues. He was well-known for his tenacious spirit, yet he was also someone who quietly reached out to and helped people with disabilities.

Smith founded the newspaper in 1990. He led Access Press through many changes, including conversion to nonprofit status. He worked to expose what he considered to be inequities in how people with disabilities are treated, as well as problems with disability services.

Any individual or group in Minnesota that is part of Minnesota’s disability community is eligible for nomination. Provide as much information as possible about a nominee as that information is used by the newspaper board to evaluate the nominees. Links to newspaper, magazine or online articles, or television news stories are welcome.

People cannot nominate themselves.

Past nominees can be nominated again, but there

Piper makes case - from p. 1 Piper said. “I want legislators to understand how critical the needs are as they consider this year’s budget proposals in the final weeks of session. We absolutely must repair this part of the safety net so people can get the care they need.”

Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center provides inpatient psychiatric care for people going through severe mental health crises. Employees, mental health advocates and family members of patients contend that Anoka-Metro lacks needed staff and facility resources to handle patients whose behavior has grown increasingly volatile. These patients exhibit behaviors that endanger them, other patients and employees. Injuries to staff and patients, high employee turnover, and increased overtime pay are among issues cited at Anoka-Metro.

Anoka-Metro patients sometimes wait for a long time for community placements to open for them. The longer they stay at the facility, the longer patients in hospitals and other settings must wait for beds at Anoka-Metro. Counties bear the $1,309-per-day cost for each patient who no longer requires hospital care.

Piper said the DHS is close to finalizing a systems improvement agreement with federal regulators. The agreement is likely to allow the state to continue billing for services that qualify for Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement.

Some of the problems at Anoka-Metro, and other state facilities stem from a 2013 law meant to alleviate the problems of people with mental illness staying in county jails. This law is known as the 48-rule. If a judge determines that a jail inmate is mentally ill, state law requires that the person shall be placed in a psychiatric bed. Advocates contend the law has pushed Anoka-Metro and other facilities to the breaking point.

Gov. Mark Dayton has asked legislators to approve a $177.3 million package of improvements for state hospitals and mental health facilities, including $30.3 million for Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center and community behavioral health hospitals statewide, and $55 million to stabilize direct care and treatment services across Minnesota.

Part of his proposal is to create a secure, standalone Competency Restoration Program to treat people accused of crimes who are found incompetent to stand trial. Moving these patients out of AnokaMetro would free approximately 20 beds. The recommendation also includes bonding for improvements to the Anoka-Metro hospital, including cameras, personal duress alarms and new and renovated court-

yards to provide calm, secure spaces.

Anoka-Metro has been riddled with problems in recent years, including complaints of safety and patient care lapses. The same day as Piper’s visit, the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the state announced that they had reached an agreement to continue working together. AnokaMetro could have lost millions of dollars in federal government insurance dollars for the 110-bed hospital, had an agreement not been reached.

Federal oversight of the hospital will continue through May 2018. State officials must develop a detailed plan to address problems. An independent consultant will conduct a comprehensive analysis of Anoka-Metro operations.

CMS officials visited Anoka-Metro in 2015 and warned state officials that if problems weren’t rectified, the state couldn’t bill the federal government for services. CMS raised concerns about the need to treat complex conditions and tailor treatment for individual patients. Red flags were also raised about staff training, use of restraints and other practices.

DHS has made progress in hiring staff at AnokaMetro Regional Treatment Center, according to Piper.

A job fair in Anoka-Metro in February attracted more than 300 applicants, filling more than 50 positions.

Mandated overtime and employee injuries are down so far this year compared with 2015. ■

EMPLOYMENT Employment ads are $22-$25 per col. inch.

Mail to: Access Press, 1821 University Ave. #104S, St. Paul, MN 55104 FAX 651-644-2136 • Email: access@accesspress.org

ATTORNEY MN Disability Law Center, Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid. For more information go to: www.mylegalaid.org/ jobs

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are rules specific to repeat nominations. A person or organization can be nominated for two consecutive years, but has to wait one year before being nominated again. A person or group can be nominated for two consecutive years, but a new person must make the nomination the second year.

Please send a high-resolution digital photo or an actual picture of the nominee. Otherwise, be prepared to tell the editors where a high-resolution picture can be obtained. Pictures will be returned on request.

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

The winner is the guest of honor at the annual award banquet. Guests enjoy a delicious meal, a fun silent auction and “pick your prize” raffle, speeches and time to socialize with friends. Family members and friends of the honoree are encouraged to attend.

Meal choices will be announced soon. Watch the newspaper and website in the weeks ahead for information on the banquet, sponsorship levels and ways to donate to the silent auction and raffle. ■

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

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

Find your new home with At Home Apartments. Call 651-224-1234 or visit AtHomeApartments.com for an apartment or town home. Equal Opportunity Housing.

Holmes Greenway Housing: Now accepting applications for the 2BR, Section 8, handicapped housing waitlist. New cabinets and floor coverings. Available soon. 1 BR waitlist is closed. Designed for persons with mobility impairments. Send an email to jmccormick@ diversifiedequitiescorp.com, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope, or stop by the office Mon. – Thurs from 9:30AM to 12:30PM to receive application. Holmes Greenway Housing, 114 Fifth Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, 612-378-0331 Equal Housing Opportunity FOR SALE Accessible Rambler Maplewood: $269,000; 5 bedroom, 3 bath. Great home and neighborhood with stair lift. Solid Construction. 1745 Birmingham, 55109 FMI: call Jamie 715-371-0789.

Pg 16 May 10, 2016 Volume 27, Number 5