april 2012

Volume 23, Number 4

Martinez - p. 15

www.accesspress.org April 10, 2012

Les Bauer, Gene Martinez and Kurt Rutzen were among those at thecapitol press conference. They were among a group at a March 29 pressconference meant to spotlight the plight of families affected by the 20 per-cent pay cut for PCAs. As Access Press went to press, Gov. Mary Daytonwas working to reverse the cut.

Photo by Mike Gude PCAs' plight - p. 14

“Always vote for principle,though you may vote alone,and you may cherish thesweetest reflection thatyour vote is never lost.” — John Quincy Adams

NEWS DIGEST

INSIDE

Martinez draws on life experiencesin federal role

Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDTwin Cities. MNPermit No. 4766

Address Service Requested

MA-EPDstrugglescontinue, noresolution yet

PCAs’ pay plight is still in play this session

People & Places,pg 4-5

Regional News, pg 6

Accessible Fun, pg 11

Events, pg 12

Radio Talking Book, pg 14

MA-EPD - p. 13

Kathleen Martinez met with reporters during her TwinCities visit.

Photo courtsey of Harvey T. Rockwood

Capitol Rally, April 4th

by Harvey T. Rockwood

The Obama administration’s lead advisoron employment of people with disabilities wasin the Twin Cities March 20 to praise TwinCities area agencies that boost employmentopportunities for people with disabilities.

“You really are nice people!” said KathleenMartinez, assistant secretary for disability em-ployment policy at the U.S. Department ofLabor.

Martinez was effusive with praise for Min-nesota agencies involved in job opportunitiesduring a forum sponsored by the MinnesotaBusiness Leadership Network at the Minne-apolis Convention Center “Minnesota has al-ways been a forward-thinking community,”she said.

Martinez, who is blind, is head of the U.S.Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Em-ployment Policy (ODEP). She advises theObama administration on all matters related toemployment for people with disabilities. Sheparticipated in a forum that featured representa-tives of businesses and non-profit organizationsshowing innovation in efforts to train and placepeople with disabilities in well-paying jobs.

Martinez also advises the secretary of laborand works with all Labor Department agenciesto lead a comprehensive and coordinated na-tional policy regarding the employment ofpeople with disabilities.

Two of Minnesota’sprominent state legisla-tors with disabilities haveannounced careerchanges.Page 3

Minneapolis Communityand Technical Collegehas added a new pro-gram for students withdisabilities.Page 4

Check out our latestversion of the Directoryof Organizations, forone-stop shopping forservices and programs.Pages 7-10

Interact is presentingA Work of Heart.1

Radio Talking Book hasannounced staffchanges.Page 13

Martinez said she’s aware of attempts toweaken the federal Americans with DisabilitiesAct (ADA). She said she doubts the effort willget far. Besides, she said too many people, dis-abled or not, have had a chance to see howADA is influencing construction that permitseasy access for everyone.

Martinez used humor and stories of personalexperience to make her points. “I am a woman,a mother, a Latina and a very out member of theGLBT community.” Martinez said.”In otherwords, I’m a poster child for diversity.”

She also joked with the audience, saying,“You know, when I ask a question, you don’t

by Jane McClureAbout 6,600 Minnesotans who provide care to family mem-

bers with disabilities will continue to be paid less than otherswho provide care. Unless state lawmakers have a change ofheart, the attempt to have equal pay for personal care attendant(PCA) services will have to wait for either a legal appeal or the2012 legislative session.

During the 2011 legislative special session, a 20 percent re-duction was made in the pay of PCAs who care for a familymember. PCA agencies sued last year to block the cut, whichwas made in a closed-door deal to reduce a $5 billion state bud-get deficit.

Gov. Mark Dayton promised he would support restoring thepay cut, which was originally estimated to save the state $24.1million over the biennium. That amount has been reduced to about$17 million due to the delay in implementing the cut. Dayton iseyeing part of a $73 million payment HMOs have made to thestate and federal government for the PCAs.

The cut means some family member PCAs have seen theirhourly wage drop from $10 to $8 or less an hour.

On March 23 Ramsey County District Court Judge DaleLindman ruled that the cut would stand, and any changes wouldhave to be made by state lawmakers. The eight PCA agenciesinvolved in the lawsuit will appeal, but that could take sixmonths or longer.

by Access Press staff

Typically, Minnesotanswork well beyond 65 yearsof age. Efforts to allow thestate’s disability communityto do the same continue atthe state capitol. The story ofCharles “Chuck” VanHeuveln and the loomingthreat to his lifestyle hassparked the latest push for abill to expand the age limitfor Medical Assistance forEmployed People with Dis-abilities (MA-EPD). Pro-posed changes would allowmany Minnesotans with dis-abilities to continue workingbeyond the age limit of 65without threatening their as-sets or service.

The MA-EPD programallows people to work, main-tain higher assets and a fewother benefits such as spou-sal income, vehicles, savingsand burial funds while pay-ing a premium to obtainstraight Medical Assistance(MA) insurance coverage.One of the main advantagesof MA-EPD is to obtain per-sonal care attendants (PCA)services coverage. Most in-surance packages that wouldbe provided by employerswould not cover PCA ser-

A $73 millionwindfall from thestate’s HMOs couldreverse the cut. Readmore about it on thispage.

Pg 2 April 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3

Changes removed barrier to community integration

Editorial submissions and news releases on topics of interest to persons withdisabilities, or persons serving those with disabilities, are welcomed. Wereserve the right to edit all submissions. Editorial material does not necessarilyreflect the view of the editor/publisher of Access Press.

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

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History Note - p. 5

EDITOR’S DESKTim Benjamin

HISTORY NOTE

by Luther Granquist

The Minnesota Department of Human Servicesagreed in 2011 to develop a comprehensive plan toprovide services for persons with disabilities in the“most integrated setting.” This plan, called an“Olmstead plan” in reference to a United States Su-preme Court case that supported moving persons withdisabilities out of institutions, was part of the settle-ment of the lawsuit involving excessive use of re-

straint at METO, a state program at Cambridge.Part of the already existing infrastructure for this

plan is a state zoning law adopted in 1975 that re-quires communities to allow small group homes inresidential areas. One of the reasons that law waspassed was that the members of the Lutheran Churchof the Resurrection in Roseville chose in 1972 to starta group home for persons with mental retardation as a25th anniversary project. The church established anon-profit corporation, The Residence, Inc., to carryout the project.

A church member, Don Zibell, donated 7.5 acres inShoreview to the corporation. The Residence, Inc.board, headed by another church member, DonSeverson, decided to build eight-person three homesand sought a special use permit allowing them to dothat in an area zoned for single-family residences. OnJuly 15, 1974, despite strong objections from neigh-bors who protested that their property values woulddecline and that open space at the western end ofSnail Lake should be preserved, the Shoreview CityCouncil granted their request.

Fourteen Shoreview couples responded by suingthe city and The Residence, Inc. in November 1974.They claimed that the group homes would destroy

their comfort and well-being and would constitute anuisance, in addition to lowering the value of theirproperties. They sought a ruling that the city’s grant-ing of the special use permit was arbitrary, invalid andunconstitutional.

Both the city and the board of The Residence, Inc.sought to have the case go to trial as soon as possible.But the board and its supporters from the Arc realizedthat the time-consuming process of seeking specialuse permits would thwart development of grouphomes and that legislative action was needed. Theygot Rep. Frank Knoll (R-White Bear Lake) and Sen.Steve Keefe (DFL-Minneapolis), and a bipartisangroup of co-authors, to introduce bills that stated itwas the “policy of the state that mentally retarded andphysically handicapped persons should not be ex-cluded by municipal zoning ordinances from the ben-efits of normal residential surroundings….”

Their bills stated that a group home for six or fewerresidents had to be considered a permitted use even inthose areas zoned for single-family residences. Condi-tional use permits could be required for homes fromseven to 16 residents, but the conditions could not bemore restrictive than those imposed for other multi-family dwellings. With the support of the Minnesota

League of Municipalities,the bills passed unani-mously in the House and58-1 in the Senate.

The legislation didn’tresolve the court case be-cause the special use per-mits were for eight-personhomes and contained a listof special conditions. Aftera sometimes bitter two-week trial in May 1975,Judge John Graff upheld thevalidity of the special usepermits. He relied, in part,on the policy of the stateexpressed in the zoning leg-islation. The Residence, Inc.ultimately built two grouphomes on the property. The

What’s with the Minnesota weather? Could it be anicer spring? It’s the beginning of April and we’ve al-ready had temperatures well into the 70s: unbelievable.

Speaking of weather, I think our legislators are get-ting serious spring fever also and trying to finish upearly. Being the cynic I am, I wonder if they are tryingto prove that the Republican-controlled legislature canfinish their work early—or if they are just trying toend early so they can begin their campaign efforts.

On March 29, the House Health and Human Ser-vices omnibus bill (HF 2294) was introduced and dis-cussed on the House floor. Many amendments to thebill were proposed; two amendments were introducedconcerning repeal of the 20% family-relative personalcare attendant (PCA) wage cut. Neither was accepted,but they each produced lively, and sometimes heated,debate among Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL–Rochester),Rep. Paul Thissen (DFL–Minneapolis) Rep. JimAbeler (R–Anoka) and several others. Abeler’s argu-ment and party stance seems to be more toward reim-bursing insurance companies than with any hardshipfor PCAs. Abeler argued that the estimated single-digit

millions that will be recovered from overpaymentshould go back to the insurance companies as a “good-will gesture,” a gift, and not as fair compensation torelatives taking care of their own family members.

In the hearing on the temporary restraining orderagainst the cut, Judge Dale B. Lindman said that it isa moral obligation of the family to take care of theirdisabled family member, and maybe it is, but if thatmoral obligation means that they have to give upother work in order to do that, I wonder whatLindman thinks the state’s ethical responsibility isconcerning these families? This 20% cut was enactedlast year after the state government shutdown.

Barbara Christiansen called me recently in tears,wondering what I thought the chance of the 20% paybeing reinstated. I could not answer her. She and herhusband are in their late 70s and for many years nowhave been taking care of their adult son Steve, whowas diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at age 26. Dueto the MS, he is quadriplegic with speech and seizureproblems and needs 24-hour care. The Christiansenstake care of Steve to keep him from a nursing home,since without them, he would need round-the-clockskilled nursing care. The Christiansens have been sav-ing the state nursing-home costs and now the state hascut 20% of the income they earn to help supportthemselves and their son.

The stories I’ve heard from the Christiansens andmany others have brought tears to my eyes. In most of

these stories, families have taken on layers of difficultresponsibility and frequently put themselves in poverty.But the state is not fulfilling its ethical responsibility totake care of its citizens and to ensure their right to thepursuit of happiness. Few pursue happiness throughinvoluntary poverty. These families have been impov-erished by the state in taking care of their own, and tosay that is their “moral responsibility” is a slap in theface. This is yet another situation where lawmakersgeneralize from a few incidents to imagine that there’sa widespread problem that must be solved. There is noquestion that there are abuses in every public assistancesystem, but we have to find a better way to target theabuse, not abuse the targeted population.

In other legislative news, the Medical Assistancefor Employed People with Disabilities (MA-EPD)program that we have been covering looks like it maysee legislation to lift the 65-year-old age limit thisyear. The governor’s budget and both proposed omni-bus bills to date have some kind of language extend-ing the age limit and financial disregards or excep-tions. The next big step will be getting a waiver fromthe federal government to allow the state Medicaidprogram to extend this age limit and disregards.

Finally, it looks like a Voter ID proposal will go onthe fall ballot for a vote. We’ll continue monitoringthe situation. This law would certainly disenfranchisemany, or make the voting process unnecessarily bur-densome. In fact, it might not allow many people withdisabilities to vote.

Stay tuned to our website updates during themonth. There’s plenty of suspense for capitol-watch-ers in this balmy spring. ■

April 10, 2012 Volume 23, Number 3 Pg 3

Kriesel to step down; Westrom seeks Senate seatby Jane McClure

Two high-profile Minnesota legislators with dis-abilities are looking at changing roles. Rep. JohnKriesel (R-Cottage Grove), a military veteran whoworked on legislative issues important to Minnesota’sdisability community, has decided to not seek a sec-ond term in the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Rep. Torrey Westrom, (R-Elbow Lake), the state’sfirst blind state legislator, has announced he is run-ning for an open seat in the Minnesota Senate.Westrom, who holds a law degree from WilliamMitchell College of Law, was elected to the Minne-sota House in 1996 at age 23. He is in his eighthHouse term and chairs the Civil Law Committee,Westrom lost his sight in an accident at age 14.

While serving in Iraq in 2006, Kriesel lost his legsin a roadside bombing. Kriesel is a double amputeeand wrote a book about his war and medical ordeal.Kriesel made his announcement not to seek a secondterm on March 12 on Twin Cities sports radio stationKFAN.

In his retirement announcement letter, Kriesel citeda desire to spend more time with his family, whichincludes his wife Katie and two young sons, ages 10and 11. “My military career was very tough on myfamily, and while being a state representative pales incomparison, it still causes additional strain at home,”he stated. “Juggling my job at the capitol, my job

working for the National Guard and still giving mywife and sons the time they deserve has become in-creasingly difficult. As parents we get only a few pre-cious years with our children before they grow up andmove out of the nest. I want to make sure that I amaround for my sons during this very impressionabletime in their lives.”

Kriesel went on to describe his wife as “amazing”for all of the time she has put in during his militaryservice and legislative service. He noted it is his turnto “step up at home” so that she can pursue her careerdreams. Last session Kriesel work with amputeerights’ groups on legislation to gain better insurancecoverage for those who need artificial limbs. He hasalso worked on a number of other bills related to vet-erans’ programs and the new Vikings football sta-dium.

In 2011 he went against the Republican Party andopposed a constitutional amendment banning gaymarriage. He has since allied himself with a statewidegroup that is working to defeat the measure in No-vember.

“I wanted to prove to people that you could be justa regular dude, a regular hardworking guy and be ableto come in here and make a difference,” he said. “Ifeel like I’ve made a difference and hopefully showedpeople, young people, that you can get involved, youcan make a difference.”

Rep. Kriesel has announced he will not seek a second term.Photo by Jane McClure

by Jane McClure

Disability community advocates, who have spentmany hours at the state capitol tracking the House andSenate omnibus health and human services (HHS)bills, continue to follow a number of proposals as thesession moves into its final weeks. A rapidly changinglandscape during the 2012 session of the MinnesotaLegislature means many proposals important to thecommunity are still undecided.

Concerns about further cuts to disability serviceshave prompted hundreds of people to attend recentdisability rally days at the capitol. Some events haveattracted record crowds. On April 4 more than 600people were expected to attend the annual DisabilityDay at the Capitol. They planned to call on state leg-islators and Gov. Mark Dayton to restore budget cutsto services, protect these services from further cutsand preserve the dignity and civil rights of peoplewith disabilities that are jeopardized by legislativeproposals.

“People with disabilities are not only concernedabout cuts to their services, but threats to their rightsas well,” said Rick Cardenas, Co-Director of Advo-cating Change Together. “Proposals like Voter IDwill create barriers to make it more difficult for27,000 or more Minnesotans with disabilities to exer-cise their right to vote. We are delighted so many ad-vocates from across the state planned to come to St.Paul and speak up for their rights.”

With committee deadlines in March, some billswon’t make it through this session, including a pushto obtain more funding for spinal cord injury research.Others are still in play as individual measures or aspart of omnibus bills. Few major bills had been signedas Access Press’s print edition went to press. Andwith much attention focused on bonding proposalsand a Minnesota Vikings stadium, there are worriesthat many more issues could be sidelined.

Another question is the push, by some to adjournearly. State lawmakers are required to adjourn theregular session on or before the third Monday in May,although there was a push by some legislators to ad-journ by April 6, Good Friday. That marked the startof the one-week spring break, which ends April 15.

The Voter ID bill that was proceeding rapidly asAccess Press went to press was a proposed constitu-tional amendment requiring Minnesota voters topresent photo identification at polling places. AHouse-Senate conference committee signed off ballotlanguage April 2, sending the measure back to the full

Disabilities-related legislation advancing at the capitolHouse and Senate for final approval. Passage is all butcertain and because Dayton cannot block the measure,it is headed to the November ballot. If it is adopted itwould take effect for 2013 elections, barring a legalchallenge.

Disability advocates are concerned that a voteridentification requirement could be another barrier tovoting. Advocates of the amendment contend it wouldreduce voter fraud.

Health and human services funding is being closelymonitored by the Minnesota Consortium for Citizenswith Disabilities (MN-CCD) and other groups.Dayton’s supplemental budget, which was releasedMarch 12, called for $43.9 million in increased spend-ing as well as $44.2 million in increased revenues. Heincluded many provisions related to disability ser-vices, including repealing the 20% relative PCA wagecut; expanding eligibility for MA-EPD to people overage 65; delaying for one year the de-licensing of cor- Wrap up - p. 14

porate foster care beds and transitioning this measureinto a statewide reduction instead of facility reductionand reducing the “low needs” cut from 10% to 5%.

The differences between Dayton’s proposals andthe HHS omnibus bills will have to be hammered outbefore the session ends. Both bills were making theirway through the House and Senate processes as ofearly April. Much of the debate has centered on thecuts from past sessions and how those have affectedpeople with disabilities. But funding continues to be aproblem, making any attempts to add services back ina challenge.

Issues MN-CCD, community groups and advocatesare tracking are in the area of foster care, dental ser-vices covered by Medical Assistance, expandingdefinitions of home and community-based settings,changes in rates for brain injury and CADI waivers; arequest for DHS to develop a plan to license PCA ser-

“It’s been amazing. Every day I walk in here … itfeels almost like a dream,” he said. “It’s somethingI’ll look back on fondly and I’m glad I did it.” ■


PEOPLE & PLACES

Robbinsdale/Hopkins/Westonka won the PI state title inadapted floor hockey.

Photo courtesy of Robbinsdale Schools

Mustangs, Robins are winners

Anoka-Hennepin and Robbinsdale/Hopkins/Mound-Westonka successfully defended their titles inthe 2012 Minnesota State High School League FloorHockey Tournament. The tournament was held March16-17 at Bloomington Jefferson High School. Floorhockey is the winter sport adapted for Minnesota prepathletes with disabilities.

For the Robins of Robbinsdale/Hopkins/Mound-Westonka, it was the eighth state title in the PhysicalImpairments or PI division. The Robins came into thetournament as the top seed in the South Division andnever looked back as they won games over theWayzata/Minnetonka, South Suburban and DakotaUnited. It was an all-bird final as the Robins toppedthe Dakota United Hawks, 7-2.

The Robins have a long history of adapted floorhockey success. The team won as Robbinsdale in1994, 1995, and 1996, and as Hopkins/Robbinsdale/Wayzata in 2001. In 2002, they won as Hopkins/Mound-Westonka/Robbinsdale, and they claimed

their last two titles under their current name in 2009and 2011.

The Robins had a regular season record of 12-0-1and were the top seed in the North Division. The teamscored 101 goals this year while their opponentsscored only 17 against them. Junior Mike Madsonscored a team-high 37 goals for Robbinsdale/Hopkins/ Mound-Westonka this year, and sophomoreJoe Dubisar added 22 assists. Charlie Wittmer, a jun-ior, guarded the Robins’ net in every game and he hasa .950 save percentage.

The Mustangs of Anoka-Hennepin came into theCognitive Impairments (CI) tournament as the two-time defending champions. The team, the top seed inthe North Division, had a perfect regular record of 13-0.The Mustangs defeated Burnsville/Farmington/Lakeville in the first round, and then topped NorthSuburban to advance to the championship against theSt. Cloud Area Slapshots. Anoka-Hennepin won thetitle game decisively, 13-3.

Anoka-Hennepin also won a state CI title in 1996.This year’s team outscored its opponents 187 to 43during the regular season. Senior Tyler Kurkowskiscored 52 goals for the Mustangs this year and also

People & Places - p. 5

The Minnesota Twins have asked nonprofit Oppor-tunity Partners to help prepare promotional giveawaysfor fans during the 2012 baseball season. Sixty thou-sand official Minnesota Twins schedule posters wererolled, banded and boxed by adults with disabilities atOpportunity Partners in Minnetonka, whereMinnesota’s disabled community can find employ-ment, training and residential programs. The posters,sponsored by the Star Tribune, will be given to thefirst 20,000 fans at each of the home games againstthe Texas Rangers on April 13, 14 and15 at TargetField.

“The Minnesota Twins selected Opportunity Partnersonce again to help prepare promotional posters for the2012 season,” says Luis Lozada, purchasing managerfor the Minnesota Twins. “We were so pleased withtheir dedication to quality and efficient turnaroundlast year, coupled with the fact that their goal is toprovide work opportunities and independence toMinnesota’s disabled community, that the decision touse them again was an easy one.”

Opportunity Partners a hit with Twins

had a team-high 23 assists. Senior Zach Theroux wasthe second-leading scorer for Anoka-Hennepin, add-ing 40 goals and 14 assists. Junior goalie Jeff Shogrenplayed in every game this year, allowing only 43goals.

Burnsville/Farmington/Lakeville Blazing Catsbounced back to win the consolation title. DakotaUnited Hawks claimed the third place crown in CI.

The Anoka-Hennepin Mustangs claimed third placein the PI division. The Brainerd/Pillager Warriorswon the consolation title. ■

Anoka-Hennepin won the CI state title in adapted floorhockey.

Photo courtesy of David Banks Studio

MCTC program will assiststudents with disabilities

For the 2011-2012 academic year, Minneapolis Community and Technical Col-lege (MCTC) has added TriO Disability Student Support Services to the college’slist of TRiO programs.

The mission of TRiO Disability Support Services is to enhance the educationalexperience by providing students with disabilities a foundation for personalgrowth, academic skills, career development, cultural enrichment, retention of ma-terial, graduation, and help in the process of transferring to a four-year universityor college.

The main TRiO program is a diverse package of federal outreach and studentservices programs designed to identify and provide services for individuals fromdisadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO includes seven programs targeted to serve andassist low-income students, first-generation college students and students with dis-abilities to progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to post-bac-calaureate programs. The U.S. Department of Education funds these programs.

TRIO also includes a training program for directors and staff of TRIO projects.At MCTC, TRiO Disability Support Student Services works closely with Disabil-

ity Services and assist students with disabilities to achieve their educational goals.The programs are greatly appreciated by students with disabilities.

“Upon my first entry to MCC, (Minneapolis Community College) in 1993 I hadno idea such a program as TRiO existed,” said MCTC student PwajdeurSwanstrom. “I would have loved to have been involved then, as I am now repeat-ing what I should or could have finished then. Working with Steve Anderson (stu-dent advisor) has been a breath of fresh air; there is a kindred connection in ourabilities and taste for life of the performing arts. I feel there is nothing holding meback from achieving great heights and bettering myself here at MCTC. I’m confi-dent if there wasn’t such a program as TRIO, I might be repeating my past educa-tional experience again.”

“TRiO helps accomplish my goals as a college student with services such as ad-vising and tutoring,” said MCTC student Hannah Furney.

MCTC has eight different TRiO programs and has served students for severaldecades. TRiO Disability Support Services focuses exclusively on serving studentswith disabilities. In fact, it is the only program of its kind in the state of Minnesota.

In order to be eligible for the MCTC program, students with disabilities mustdemonstrate the need for academic support, and meet one or more of the followingcriteria. Students must meet income eligibility guidelines. He or she must be afirst-generation student, meaning neither parent holds a four-year degree. Studentsmust be serious about earning an associate degree and/or transferring to a four-year college or university.

MCTC - p. 14


U of M graduate student is arts intern

Kaitlyn Mielke of Victoria is spending a seven-month internship at VSA Minnesota, the state organi-zation on arts and disability based in Minneapolis.She will work as a community engagement specialistto involve more people who are deaf or hard of hear-ing in the arts. The funding for her internship is pro-vided through The Rosemary Kennedy Internship Ini-tiative at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Perform-ing Arts in Washington, D.C., which conducts disabil-ity-related internship, apprenticeship, training andmentorship projects.

Mielke served as Miss Deaf Minnesota in 2009-2011. She holds a B.A. degree from the University ofMinnesota and is now a student in the University ofMinnesota’s Master of Liberal Studies—arts manage-ment program. She is an enthusiastic patron of the artsand an advocate for making the arts accessible to ev-

Edina attorney honored for settlement

Shamus O’Meara, Partner with the law firm ofJohnson & Condon in Edina, was among those hon-ored at The Arc Minnesota Public Policy RecognitionEvent on March 7at the Midland Hills Country Clubin Roseville. O’Meara was lead counsel in a courtsettlement that ended abusive practices at the Minne-sota Extended Treatment Options (METO) facility inCambridge.

“The Arc Minnesota is proud to honor ShamusO’Meara and the plaintiff families for their advocacyand courage,” said Steve Larson, The ArcMinnesota’s Public Policy Director. “Because ofthem, hundreds of Minnesotans with disabilities havereceived justice, and a dark chapter in our state’s his-tory will, we hope, never be repeated.”

Colleagues at the March 7 event praised O’Meara’sdetermination and passion. Colleen Wieck, ExecutiveDirector of the Minnesota Governor’s Council on De-velopmental Disabilities, said O’Meara had to “chal-lenge persistent and pervasive old ways of thinkingand deep seated prejudice,” and “fight against a col-laboration of indifference.”

O’Meara and three Minnesota families reached alandmark class action settlement with the State ofMinnesota in June, 2011. They had filed a lawsuitagainst the state for widespread restraint and seclu-sion of several hundred Minnesotans with develop-mental disabilities at the METO campus, located atthe former Cambridge State Hospital. On December1, 2011, the Minnesota Federal District Court ap-proved the June, 2011 settlement, with U.S. DistrictJudge Donovan Frank presiding over the settlementhearing.

The settlement stopped the state’s use of handcuffs

American Kidney Fund poster winner

The American Kidney Fund has announced thewinners of its 17th annual Calendar Kids Art Contestand online voting for the cover art of its 2013 Calen-dar. The 13 winners— children who live daily withchallenges that include diet restrictions, frequent di-alysis, or complicated transplant procedures— wereselected from nearly 150 entries.

The winners of the 2012 Calendar Kids Art Con-test, whose artwork will appear in the 2013 AKF Cal-endar, include Ali Gratz, 16, of New Hope. She andother winners will receive a $500 gift card and a sav-ings bond. The American Kidney Fund calendar isdistributed nationwide to help raise awareness of kid-ney disease and the importance of prevention andearly detection. More than 6,600 children in theUnited States have kidney failure, which can only betreated by dialysis or transplantation.

“The American Kidney Fund is thrilled to recog-nize these gifted young artists and it is our great plea-sure to present a celebration of their talent,” saidLaVarne A. Burton, President and Chief ExecutiveOfficer of the American Kidney Fund. “The onlinevoting contest for the cover art is a great way to getthe public involved in supporting these amazing kids,who face great hardships with a positive spirit.” ■

eryone. As a wrap-up toher internship, she will at-tend a national conferencein Boston in late August,the Kennedy Center’sLeadership Exchange inArts & Disability, whichtrains arts administratorsfrom across the country tomake their programs andfacilities more accessibleto people with disabilities.

She has worked as a di-rector of artistic sign lan-guage, translating scriptsand educating theater organizations on how to createan enjoyable experience for theater patrons who areDeaf who attend musicals and plays. Her backgroundalso includes acting, directing, and coaching interpret-ers.

Millions of viewers saw Mielke on the OprahWinfrey Show. She said, “I can fingerspell‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’ forwards andbackwards, much to the woe of fellow ASL interpret-ers and people who caption.” ■

Sack wins consumer award

The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living(MCIL) recognized Michael Sack as TransitionConsumer of the Year for 2011. The award recog-nizes a young man who has made significant stridesin the last few years. Sack received his diplomafrom Minneapolis South High School and Minne-apolis Transition Plus in 2011. Not surprising tothose that know him, Sack gave the commencementspeech at his own graduation.

Two years ago he started a blog with his friendSam Graves on Minnesota Twins baseball, TargetField and accessibility: Two Men On. Since its in-ception, their blog has more than 37,250 views.

Sack, is now enrolled in his second semester atMinneapolis Community and Technical College.He was recognized for his determination to go afterwhat he wants, his ability to advocate and continu-ally seek out more information. These traits set himapart from crowd. ■

Kaitlyn Mielke

PEOPLE & PLACES

and other restraints to deal with behavior challenges,except in emergencies, and it pays $3 million total toall the parties in the suit. Other parts of the settlementrequire Minnesota to spend nearly $1 million on addi-tional training for people working with individualswith developmental disabilities in community-basedprograms. Also, state officials and plaintiff familieswill work together to create more humane practicesfor those working with people who have disabilities.This includes updating a state rule regulating aversiveprocedures used on people with developmental dis-abilities, and including positive and social behaviortechniques when dealing with challenging behaviors.Finally, the State of Minnesota is required to developa plan, consistent with U.S. Supreme Court rulings, toensure that Minnesotans with disabilities have oppor-tunities to live in their community consistent withtheir own dreams and aspirations.

The Minnesota disability community newspaperAccess Press was a sponsor of the event. ■

History Note - from p. 2

homes are currently operated by Lutheran Social Ser-vices. Even with the zoning legislation, litigation broughtby neighbors challenging development of grouphomes continued. There were lawsuits in Carver andHennepin counties in the late 1970s. Early in 1980 aneighbor sued the City of Two Harbors for allowing asix-person home in a residential area in reliance onthe law passed in 1975. The Minnesota SupremeCourt upheld the city’s action. The court emphasized

that the 1975 zoning lawwas “part of a broad pro-gram, on the state and na-tional level, todeinstitutionalize mentallyretarded persons and re-turn them to the commu-nity.”

The effective workdone almost four decadesago by The Residence,Inc., by the Arc, and byother supporters of the1975 legislation removedsome zoning barriers toprovision of truly inte-grated community servicesfor persons with disabili-ties. But removal of zon-ing barriers alone has not

and will not enable all persons with disabilities to livein respectable, independent homes, in neighborhoodsthey choose, and with the support they want and need.The challenge today to the Department of Human Ser-vices, and to the legislature and governor of the state,is to commit the human and monetary resourcesneeded to provide that kind of life for all persons withdisabilities. ■

Would you like to make history?Access Press is interested in reader submissions forthe monthly History Note column, to complement thearticles written by Luther Granquist and other con-tributors. Submissions must center on events, peopleand places in the history of Minnesota’s disabilitycommunity. We are in interested in history that fo-cuses on all types of physical and cognitive disabili-ties, so long as the history has a tie to Minnesota. Weare especially interested in stories from Greater Min-nesota.Please submit ideas prior to submitting full stories, aswe may have covered the topic before. Past HistoryNote articles can be found on www.accesspress.orgContact us at [email protected] or 651-644-2133 if you have questions.

The History Note is a monthly column sponsored bythe Minnesota Governor’s Council on DevelopmentalDisabilities, www.mncdd.org andwww.partnersinpolicymaking.com ■


Regional News - p. 13

REGIONAL NEWSHead of state hospital fired

David Proffitt, the embattled director of the crisis-ridden Minnesota Security Hospital in St. Peter, wasfired March 20 by state officials. Since the hiringmore details have emerged about difficulties Proffitthad at his previous job in Maine.

The firing comes as state lawmakers and MinnesotaDepartment of Human Services (DHS) officials areincreasing scrutiny of the hospital, which is one ofseveral programs housed at the St. Peter facility. Offi-cials are concerned about use of restrains and seclu-sion at the facility.

DHS Commissioner Lucinda Jesson ordered the

dismissal just seven months after she had hiredProffitt to institute reforms at the hospital that caresfor nearly 400 of the state’s most dangerous and men-tally ill patients. “He was unable to build the level oftrust with staff needed to foster the environment nec-essary for the very significant changes that need tooccur,” Said Anne Barry, assistant commissioner ofthe Department of Human Services. “It’s no surprisethat there is real disappointment. David had highhopes and dreams of what he could do at the facility.”Proffitt reportedly will work as a consultant to theagency for several months.

DHS officials said Proffitt’s confrontational stylecontributed to the resignations or firings of six psy-chiatrists since he was hired in September. Poor com-munications skills were also an issue. The problemssnowballed several months ago when Proffitt fired apsychiatrist and nurse over their allegedly forcing a

Homeless veterans to get helpU.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary

Shaun Donovan and U.S. Department of Veterans Af-fairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki have announced thatHUD will provide $756,343 to public housing agen-cies in Minnesota to supply permanent housing andcase management for more than 115 homeless veter-ans in the state. Many of the veterans have cognitiveand physical disabilities.

The permanent supportive housing assistance isprovided through HUD’s Veterans Affairs SupportiveHousing Program (HUD-VASH), a program adminis-tered by HUD, VA, and local housing agencies acrossthe country. In Minnesota, projects will be in Minne-apolis, St. Paul, Duluth and Mankato. There will be115 housing units created, at a cost of $756,343.

“It’s a national disgrace that one out of every sixmen and women in our shelters once wore a uniformto serve our country,” said HUD Secretary Donovan.“But we know that by providing housing assistanceand case management services, we can significantlyreduce the number of veterans living on our streets.Working together, HUD, VA and local housing agen-

Concussions take her out of the gameA St. Paul athlete who was competing at a world

class level is now making a move after repeated con-cussions finally took her out of the game. For 25years, sports such as basketball, volleyball and trackwere always a part of Cindy Ellis’ life.

So were concussions. Ellis said, “I know I’ve had atleast 10.” But no one, coaches or players, talked aboutthem. And so she didn’t take them seriously. Ellis saidshe suffered many symptoms, including exhaustion,dizziness, headaches and moodiness. Her last concus-sion came when she was playing in the 2006 U.S.A.Women’s Bandy World Championships, a sport com-bining elements of hockey and soccer. Ellis said, “Ihad gotten hit in the head and dislocated my jaw.”

She said she went back into that game 10 minuteslater and played two more games. But two days later,when Ellis woke up, she couldn’t lift her arm. Sheknew something was seriously wrong. Eventuallymovement came back. Ellis then came to realize justhow much damage her concussions had done. Whenshe went back to work, she couldn’t complete simpletasks.

violent man into seclusion after he reportedly threat-ened to kill the nurse.

In January, hospital psychiatrists and nurses filedformal complaints with DHS alleging that Proffitt hadyelled and contributed a hostile work environment.Although an investigation didn’t substantiate thoseallegations, state officials said a change of leadershipis needed.

Proffitt has been replaced by Carol Olson, who wasadministrator of the Community Behavioral HealthHospitals in Rochester and St. Peter. She has morethan 25 years experience in adult mental health ser-vices. Dr. Steven Pratt will be the hospital’s medicaldirector. Barry said they will have to rebuild the psy-chiatric staff, hiring at least three doctors and possiblymore clinical nurses. ■[Source: Star Tribune]

cies are making real progress toward ending veteranhomelessness once and for all.”

“Under the leadership of President Obama, we havemade significant progress in the fight to end home-lessness among veterans, but more work remains,”said VA Secretary Shinseki. “The partnership be-tween the federal government and community agen-cies across the country has strengthened all of our ef-forts to honor our veterans and keep us on track toprevent and eliminate veteran homelessness by 2015.”

This funding to local housing agencies is part of theObama Administration’s commitment to end Veteranand long-term chronic homelessness by 2015. Thegrants announced today are part of $75 million appro-priated for Fiscal Year 2012 to support the housingneeds of approximately 10,500 homeless veterans.VA Medical Centers (VAMC) provide supportive ser-vices and case management to eligible homeless vet-erans. This is the first of two rounds of the 2012HUD-VASH funding. HUD expects to announce theremaining funding by the end of this summer. ■[Source: HUD, VA] Regional News - p. 14


CONTINUED

ADVOCACYAdvocating Change Together (ACT) V-651-641-0297 TF-800-641-0059 www.selfadvocacy.org

Amputee Coalition V-888-267-5669- F-865-525-7917 www.amputee-coalition.org

Arc Greater Twin Cities V-952-920-0855 F-952-920-1480 www.arcgreatertwincities.org

Arc of Minnesota V-651-523-0823x115 TF-800-582-5256 www.thearcofminnesota.org

Association of Residential Resources in MN V-651-291-1086 TTY-800-551-2211 www.arrm.org

Courage Center V-763-520-0725 TTY-763-520-0245 www.CourageCenter.org

Hearing Loss Assoc. of America (HLAATC) V-763-537-7558 www.hlaatc.org

MN Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities V-651-523-0829x112 F-651-523-0829 www.mnccd.org

MN Developmental Achievement-Center Assoc V-651-647-9200 F-651-647-9353 www.mndaca.org

PACER Center, Inc. V-952-838-9000 TTY-952-838-0190 www.pacer.org

ASSISTED-LIVING PROGRAMSAccessible Space, Inc. (ASI) V-651-645-7271 TTY-800-466-7722 www.accessiblespace.org

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC V-651-699-6050 TTY-651-695-5802 www.dungarvin.com

Mary T. Inc. Catered Living V-763-754-2505 TF-888-255-6400 www.marytinc.com

BRAIN INJURYBrain Injury Association of Minnesota V-612-378-2742 TTY-800-669-6442 www.braininjurymn.org


Mary T. Inc. Human Service Programs V-763-754-2505 TF-888-255-6400 www.marytinc.com

Tandem Residential V-651-641-0491x315 F-651-645-2780 www.tandemresidential.com

TBI Metro Services - Richfield & W. St. Paul V-612-869-3995 V-651-457-4756 www.opportunitypartners.org

CASE MANAGEMENTAXIS Healthcare V-651-556-0887 F-651-556-0880 www.axishealth.com

CHEMICAL HEALTHVinland National Center V/TTY-763-479-3555 F-763-479-2605 www.vinlandcenter.org

COMMUNITY LIVINGCCP - The Cooperating Community Programs (CCP) V-651-917-8322 F-651-917-8322 www.theccpinc.com

DeafBlind Services Minnesota (DBSM) V-612-362-8454 TTY-612-362-8422 www.dbsm.llc.org

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC V-651-699-6050 TTY-651-695-5802 www.dungarvin.co

Howry Residential Services V-651-917-9111 F-651-917-1018 www.howryinc.com

Mary T. Inc. Human Service Programs V-763-754-2505 TF-888-255-6400 www.marytinc.com

Metro Work Center, Inc V/TTY-612-729-7381 F-612-729-7382 www.metroworkcenter.org

Opportunity Partners V-952-938-5511 TTY-952-930-4293 www.opportunitypartners.org

Reach for Resources V-952-988-4177 F-952-988-6728 www.reachforresources.org

REM Minnesota V-952-945-4952 F-952-922-6885 www.remminnesota.org

So. MN Independent Living Enterprises & Services V/TTY-507-345-7139 TF-888-676-6498 www.smilescil.org

Albright Townhomes Minneapolis (612) 824-6665 1 BRBuffalo Court Apartments Buffalo (763) 684-1907 2 BRElliot Park Apartments Minneapolis (612) 338-3106 2 BREvergreen Apartments Hutchinson 1-800-661-2501 1 BRFranklin Lane Apartments Anoka (763) 427-7650 1 & 2 BRHanover Townhomes St. Paul (651) 292-8497 1 BRLincoln Place Apartments Mahtomedi (651) 653-0640 2 BROlson Towne Homes Minneapolis (612) 377-9015 1 BRPrairie Meadows Eden Prairie (952) 941-5544 2 & 3 BRTalmage Green Minneapolis (612) 623-0247 2 BRTrinity Apartments Minneapolis (612) 721-2252 1 BR (sr)Unity Place Brooklyn Center (763) 560-7563 2 BRVadnais Highlands Vadnais Heights (651) 653-0640 3 BRWillow Apartments Little Falls (320) 632-0980 1 & 2 BRWoodland Court Apartments Park Rapids 1-888-332-9312 1 BR

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

Please call us for more information.

BDC Management Co. is now accepting applicationsfor our waiting lists at the following affordable communities

Ellen Houghton9 5 2 - 4 0 4 - 9 9 8 1

[email protected]

Desktop PublishingAdvertisements; Brochures; Flyers;

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CONSUMER-DIRECTED COMMUNITY SUPPORTSCommunity Involvement Programs (CIP) V-612-362-4437 www.cipmn.org

Lifeworks Services, Inc. TF-866-454-2732 TTY-651-365-3736 www.lifeworks.org

EDUCATIONCommunity Education Network on Disabilities V-651-748-7436 V-507-494-0950 V-320-529-6500 x6271

Institute on Community Integration V-612-624-6300 F-612-624-8279 www.ici.umn.edu

MRC - Minnesota Resource Center V-612-752-8100 TTY-612-752-8019 www.mrc-mn.org

Upstream Arts V-612-331-4584 F-480-393-5587 www.upstreamarts.org

EMPLOYMENT/VOCATIONAssistive Technology of MN - DBA Equip A Life V-763-479-8239 TF-866-535-8239 www.equipalife.org

CCP Works! - Cooperating Community Programs V-763-540-6833x302 F-651-917-8322 www.theccpinc.com

Chrestomathy, Inc. V-952-974-0339 F-952-974-0307 www.chrestomathyinc.org

Community Connections Partnership (CCP) V-763-540-6833x302 www.communityconnectionspartnership.org

Community Involvement Programs (CIP) V-612-353-4595x101 V-612-353-4595x102 www.cipmn.org

Cooperating Community Programs (CCP) V-651-503-8618 F-651-641-8623 www.theccpinc.com


East Suburban Resources, Inc. V-651-351-0190 www.esrworks.org

Goodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota V-651-379-5800 F-651-379-5803 www.goodwilleasterseals.org

Kaposia Inc. V/TTY-651-224-6974 F-651-224-7249 www.kaposia.com

Lifetrack Resources - Minneapolis V-612-788-8855 F-612-788-8577 www.lifetrackresources.org

Lifetrack Resources - St. Paul V-651-227-8471 TTY-651-227-3779 www.lifetrackresources.org

Lifeworks Services, Inc. TF-866-454-2732 TTY-651-365-3736 www.lifeworks.org

Merrick, Inc. V-651-789-6231 F-651-789-9960 www.merrickinc.org

Metro Work Center, Inc. V/TTY-612-729-7381 F-612-729-7382 www.metroworkcenter.org

Midway Training Services V-651-641-0709 F-651-641-0976 www.midwaytraining.org

Midwest Special Services, Inc. V-651-778-1000 F-651-772-4352 www.mwsservices.org

Minnesota Diversified Industries (MDI) V-651-999-8200 F-651-999-8242 www.mdi.org

MRC - Minnesota Resource Center V-612-752-8100 TTY-612-752-8019 www.mrc-mn.org


Partnership Resources, Inc. V-952-925-1404 F-952-925-6055 www.partnershipresources.org

Partnership Resources, Inc. - Minneapolis V-612-331-2075 F-612-331-2887 www.partnershipresources.org

Partnership Resources, Inc. - Older Adults Program V-952-746-6206 F-952-746-6209 www.partnershipresources.org

ProAct Inc. V-651-686-0405 F-651-686-0312 www.proactinc.org

Rise, Inc. V/TTY-763-786-8334 F-763-786-0008 www.rise.org

TBI Metro Services - Richfield & W. St. Paul V-612-869-3995 V-651-457-4756 www.opportunitypartners.org

TSE, Inc. V-651-489-2595 F-651-489-0410 www.tse-inc.org

University of Minnesota Disability Services V-612-626-1333 F-612-625-5572 http://ds.umn.edu

Work Incentives Connection V-651-632-5113 TF-800-976-6728 www.mnworkincentives.com

GOVERNMENTMinnesota State Council on Disability V/TTY-651-361-7800 TTY-800-945-8913 www.disability.state.mn.us

MN Gov. Council on Developmental Disabilities V-651-296-4018 TF-800-627-3529 www.mncdd.org

HEALTH CARE COORDINATIONAXIS Healthcare V-651-556-0887 F-651-556-0880 www.axishealth.com

HEALTH CARE PLANSCornerstone Solutions TF-866-601-8962 TTY-800-627-3529 www.cornerstone-solutions.org

Medica V-800-266-2157 TTY-800-855-2880 www.medica.com

UCare V-800-707-1711 TTY-800-688-2534 www.ucare.org

CONTINUED

Certified QuickBooksProAdvisor

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Fax: 952-472-1458

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CONTINUED

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICESBreak-Thru Home Care, Inc. V-763-502-1505 F-763-502-6777 www.breakthrucare.com

BrightStar Care Southern Twin Cities V-651-234-0044 F-651-234-0046 www.BrightStarCare.com

Edelweiss Home Health Care V-763-315-1050 F-763-315-1090 www.edelhomecare.com

In Home Personal Care V-763-546-1000 F-763-546-1018 www.inhomepersonalcare.com

Mary T. Inc. Home Health Care V-763-754-2505 TF-888-255-6400 www.marytinc.com

HOUSING-CONSTRUCTION/REMODELINGAccessAbility Options, Inc. V-763-571-6789 F-800-632-0798 www.accessoptionsmn.com

Accessibility Design V-952-925-0301 F-952-926-7712 www.accessibilitydesign.com

Accessible Homes, LLC. V-612-978-1054 F-651-554-3085 www.accessiblehomesllc.net

Equal Access Homes, Inc. V-651-249-7751 F-651-450-1330 www.EqualAccessHomes.com

McCarthy Builders & Remodelers, Inc. V-612-250-0816 www.McCarthyBuildersandRemodelers.com

SRR Construction, LLC V-612-419-5787 www.SRRConstruction.com

HOUSING-RENTALAccessible Space, Inc. (ASI) V-651-645-7271 TTY-800-466-7722 www.accessiblespace.org

Ebenezer Park Apartments V-612-879-2233 F-612-879-8889 www.fairviewebenezer.org/minneapolis

HousingLink V-612-522-2500 F-612-521-1577 www.housinglink.org

National Handicap Housing Institute, Inc V-651-639-9799 F-651-639-9699 www.nhhiaccessiblehousing.com

Villas and Townhomes by Mary T. Inc. V-763-754-2505 TF-888-255-6400 www.marytinc.com

INFORMATION AND REFERRAL RESOURCESArc Greater Twin Cities V-952-920-0855 F-952-920-1480 www.arcgreatertwincities.org

Assistive Technology of Minnesota V-763-479-8239 TF-866-535-8239 www.atmn.org

Fair Table Counseling Services, LLC V-952-881-3650 www.fairtablecounseling.com

Minnesota State Council on Disability V/TTY-651-361-7800 TTY-800-945-8913 www.disability.state.mn.us

The Natl Multiple Sclerosis Society - MN Chapter V-612-335-7900 TF-800-582-5296 www.mssociety.org


United Cerebral Palsy of MN V-651-646-7588 TF-877-528-5678 www.ucpmn.org

INSURANCELee F. Murphy Insurance Group V-651-294-0710 TF-800-886-7201 F-651-644-9137

LEGALFair Table Counseling Services, LLC V-952-881-3650 www.fairtablecounseling.com

MN Disability Law Center V-612-334-5970 TF-800-292-4150 www.mndlc.org

MEDICAL SUPPLIES/EQUIPMENTHandi Medical Supply V-651-644-9770 F-651-644-0602 www.handimedical.com

Key Medical Supply V-651-792-3860 F—651-792-3867 www.keymedicalsupply.com

Liberty Oxygen & Medical Equipment V-952-920-0460 F-952-920-0480 www.libertyoxygen.com

Phoenix Medical Services Inc. V-651-636-0848 F-651-636-5746 www.PhoenixMedical.org

Tamarack Habilitation Technologies, Inc. V-763-795-0057 TF-866-795-0057 www.tamarackhti.com

MENTAL HEALTHCommunity Involvement Programs (CIP) V-612-362-4434 V-612-362-4452 www.cipmn.org


Fraser V-612-861-1688 F-612-861-6050 www.fraser.org



National Alliance on Mental Illness of MN V-651-645-2948 TF-888-NAMI-Helps www.namihelps.org

Vinland National Center V/TTY-763-479-3555 F-763-479-2605 www.vinlandcenter.org

Diamond Hill Diamond Hill Diamond Hill Diamond Hill Diamond Hill TTTTTooooownhomeswnhomeswnhomeswnhomeswnhomesDiamond Hill Townhomes is a great property located near theMinneapolis International Airport. Our waiting list is cur-rently closed. Call for updated openings as this can changefrom time to time.

We have two and three bedroom townhomes that are HUDsubsidized and rent is 30% of the total household's adjustedgross income.

We have a large number of mobility impaired accessible units.

TTTTTo co co co co chechechechecheck fk fk fk fk for futuror futuror futuror futuror future we we we we waiting list openingsaiting list openingsaiting list openingsaiting list openingsaiting list openingsplease call (612) 726-9341.please call (612) 726-9341.please call (612) 726-9341.please call (612) 726-9341.please call (612) 726-9341.


PHYSICIANSCourage Center V-763-520-0453 TTY-763-520-0245 www.CourageCenter.org

Wound Healing Center V-715-268-0175 TTY-715-268-0177 www.AmeryMedicalCenter.org

RECREATION-ADAPTIVE HOBBY/EXERCISE/SPORTS/ARTSCapable Partners Inc. V-763-439-1038 www.capablepartners.org


Mind Body Solutions V-952-473-3700 www.mindbodysolutions.org

Upstream Arts V-612-331-4584 F-480-393-5587 www.upstreamarts.org

RECREATION-TRAVEL/CAMPINGCamp Winnebago V-507-724-2351 F-507-724-3786 www.campwinnebago.org

Friendship Ventures V-952-852-0101 TF-800-450-8376 www.friendshipventures.org

Hammer Travel V-952-277-2458 TF-877-345-8599 www.HammerTravel.org

Margaret’s Missions V-651-583-4471 www.margaretmission.com

Ventures Travel, LLC V-952-852-0107 TF-866-692-7400 www.venturestravel.org

Wilderness Inquiry V-612-676-9400 TF-800-728-0719 www.wildernessinquiry.org

REHABILITATION (PHYSICAL, OCCUPATIONAL, SPEECH, AUDIOLOGY THERAPISTS)Courage Center V-763-588-0811 TTY-763-520-0245 www.CourageCenter.org

Courage Center - Burnsville V-952-898-5700 F-952-898-5757 www.CourageCenter.org

Courage Center - Forest Lake V-651-464-5235 F-651-464-3547 www.CourageCenter.org

Courage Ceter - St. Croix V-651-439-8283 F-651-439-0576 www.CourageCenter.org

DeafBlind Services Minnesota (DBSM) V-612-362-8454 TTY-612-362-8422 www.dbsm.org


Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare V-651-291-2848 TF-800-719-4040 www.gillettechildrens.org

In Home Personal Care V-763-546-1000 F-763-546-1018 www.inhomepersonalcare.com


RESIDENTIAL/GROUP HOME PROGRAMSCapstone Services, LLC V-651-641-0042 x211 F-651-645-2780 www.capstoneservices.net

CCP-The Cooperating Community Programs - Residential Services V-651-503-8618 www.theccpinc.com

Community Involvement Programs (CIP) V-612-362-4403 V-612-362-4417 www.cipmn.org

Dungarvin Minnesota, LLC V-651-699-6050 TTY-651-695-5802 www.dungarvin.com



Mary T. Inc. Human Services Programs V-763-754-2505 TF-888-255-6400 www.marytinc.com

Mt. Olivet Rolling Acres V-952-474-5974 F-952-474-3652 www.mtolivetrollingacres.org


Phoenix Residence V-651-227-7655 F-651-227-6847 www.phoenixresidence.org

Restart, Inc. V-763-588-7633 F-763-588-7613 www.restartincmn.org

SERVICE ANIMALSCan Do Canines V-763-331-3000 F-763-331-3009 www.can-do-canines.org

Helping Paws, Inc. V-952-988-9359 F-952-988-9296 www.helpingpaws.org

Pawsitive Perspectives Assistance Dogs (PawPADs) V-952-226-2063 www.PawPADS.org

SKILLED NURSING FACILITIESEbenezer Care Center V-612-879-2262 www.fairviewebenezer.org/minneapolis

SOCIAL SERVICESRestart, Inc. V-763-588-7633 F-763-588-7613 www.restartincmn.org

TECHNOLOGYAssistive Technology of MN - DBA Equip A Life V-763-479-8239 TF-866-535-8239 www.equipalife.org

Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare V-651-291-2848 TF-800-719-4040 www.gillettechildrens.org

Marbesoft - Simtech V-763-755-1402 TF-888-755-1402 www.marblesoft.com


STAR Program V-651-201-2640 TF-888-234-1267 www.starprogram.state.mn.us

Tamarack Habilitation Technologies, Inc. V-763-795-0057 TF-866-795-0057 www.tamarackhti.com

TRANSPORTATION RENTAL/SALES/MODIFICATIONIMED Mobility V-651-635-0655 TF-800-788-7479 www.imedmobility.com

VISION IMPAIRMENTAmerican Council for the Blind of Minnesota V-651-428-5059 V-612-486-5180 www.acb.org/Minnesota

Vision Loss Resources V-612-871-2222 F-612-872-0189 www.visionlossresources.org

Volunteer Braille Services V-763-544-2880 F-763-544-3612 www.vbsmn.org

We would like toacknowledge

and thank The Arc™Minnesota and UCare

for their generous IssueSponsorship.

Please consider joiningas an Issue Sponsor.Call: 651-644-2133


ACCESSIBLE FUN

Jeffrey Haas

Welcome to the Access Press Accessible Fun listings. Forinformation on galleries and theater performances aroundthe state, visit www.vsamn.org or call 612-332-3888 or1-800-801-3883 (voice/tty). Or check c2 (caption coalition)inc., which does most of the captioned shows in Minnesota,also captions shows across the country: http://c2net.org\

Attend art showThe 49th Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute Interna-tional Art Show by Artists with Disabilities is April 12-May11 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, second floor, SisterKenny Rehabilitation Institute, 800 E. 28th St., Mpls. Theshow is free. Some art is offered for sale. Hours are 9a.m. - 5 p.m. Mon-Fri and 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sat-Sun. ASLinterpretation is offered 5-9 p.m. Thu, April 12. FFI: 612-863-4872, [email protected]

Fraser Walk for AutismHelp support local families by participating in the fifthannual Fraser Walk for Autism, presented by M&I/ BMOFinancial Group. This year’s event is 8 a.m. Sat, April 12at Mall of America, Bloomington. Individuals, familiesand other groups walk raise money for Fraser AutismServices. The course will be full of games, sensory ac-tivities, therapy animals, sports team mascots and more.All participants receive an official Fraser Walk for Autismt-shirt. FFI: Rose Rosario, 612-798-8343 [email protected], www.fraser.org/Events

Fabulous ’50s is gala themeMark your calendars for the Opportunity Partners 2012gala. Step back in time to the “Fabulous ’50s” benefitgala Fri, April 27 at the Hotel Sofitel Mpls, 5601 W. 78th

St., Bloomington. Festivities start at 5:30 p.m. and in-clude a silent auction, interactive games, updated ’50scomfort food, and live auction featuring professional auc-tioneer Karen Sorbo. The night will conclude with danc-ing to the 1950s tunes of The Rockin’ Hollywoods. Ianand Margery Punnett of myTalk 107.1 radio are emcees.Wear formal attire or 1950s garb. Tickets are $90; a vari-ety of sponsorship opportunities are available starting at$250. FFI: www.fabulous50s.eventbrite.com

More ‘50s fun with NAMIShake, rattle and roll with The Rockin’ Hollywoods at a50’s themed Spring Gala for the National Alliance onMental Illness (NAMI) of Minnesota. The gala is Sat,April 28 at the Metropolitan Ballroom, Mpls. Silent andlive auctions, “celebrity” photo booths, dancing and sa-vory dinner selections catered by D’Amico will be fea-tured. 50’s era dress is desired but not required. Thegala supports NAMI’s programs of education and sup-port for children and adults with mental illnesses andtheir families. FFI: 651-645-2948, www.namihelps.org

Earth, Wind & Fire to performEarth, Wind & Fire—one of America’s top-selling musicalgroups of all time—is bringing its soul-funk fusion toPACER Center’s 30th Annual Benefit on Saturday, May5, at the Mpls Convention Center. Tickets are availablenow. In addition to the Earth, Wind & Fire concert,PACER’s benefit includes silent and live auctions. Pro-ceeds from the Benefit support PACER Center programsfor children with disabilities and their families andPACER’s Bullying Prevention Center. FFI: 952-838-9000, PACER.org

Jane Pauley to speakJane Pauley, a familiar presence on TV for almost 30years, will deliver the keynote address at People Incor-porated Mental Health Services’ 43nd Annual Luncheon11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Thu, June 14, Crowne Plaza St.Paul – Riverfront Hotel, 11 Kellogg Blvd E, St. Paul.Pauley will speak about her inspiring, best-selling mem-oir, Skywriting: A Life out of the Blue, which details herpersonal struggle with bipolar disorder Tickets are $40per person and include parking. Table sponsorships areavailable. FFI: Leslie DeBoer, 651-288-3508,[email protected]

Broadway Songbook: Words & Music of Johnny MercerEnjoy a touring company performance of Mercer’sswinging songs and humor at Ordway Center for thePerforming Arts, McKnight Theatre, 345 Washington, St.Paul. ASL performance is 2 p.m. Sun, April 15. Ticketsare $20; if using ASL or Captioning, request seating inthat area. FFI: 651-224-4222, TTY 651-282-3100,www.ordway.org/accessibility/

Miracle WorkerThe Phipps Center for the Arts, 109 Locust Street, Hud-son, WI presents the true story of Helen Keller, whoseremarkable teacher helped her overcome childhood deaf-ness and blindness. ASL performance is 2 p.m. Sun, April

15. Tickets are reduced to $20 for adults and $13 for stu-dents of all ages. FFI: 715-386-2305, www.ThePhipps.org

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s CinderellaUniversity of Minnesota-Duluth presents the classicchildren’s tale at Marshall Performing Arts Center Main-stage Theatre, UMD campus, 1215 Ordean Ct., Duluth.AD performance is 7:30 p.m. Thu, April 19. ASL perfor-mance is 2 p.m. Sun, April 22. Tickets are $6-18. FFI:218-726-8561, www.d.umn.edu/theatre, www.tickets.umn.edu

WorkingThe experience of the working man and woman is cel-ebrated in this performanceby the Normandale Depart-ment of Theatre. It is basedon the book Working byStuds Terkel and is per-formed ay: NormandaleCommunity College, FineArts Building, 9700 FranceAve. S., Bloomington. ASLperformance is 7:30 p.m.Fri, April 20. Tickets are$10; $5 for NCC student/staff/seniors. FFI: 952-358-8884, www.normandaletheatre.org

Disney’sThe Beauty and the Beast

Minnetonka High SchoolTheatre presents the favor-ite fairy tale at the Arts Cen-ter on 7, 18285 Highway 7,Minnetonka. ASL perfor-mance is 7:30 p.m. Thu,April 26. Tickets are $17,senior $14, youth $12. Anew online ticketing systemhas wheelchair accessibleand companion seats notedin each interactive map.Deaf patrons are encour-aged to sit in the Right sec-tion. FFI: 952-401-5898,www.minnetonkatheatre.com

Nate the GreatTheatreWorks USA pre-sents the tale of the pint-sized detective at StephenB. Humphrey Theater, St.John’s University, College-ville. ASL performance is11:15 a.m. Fri, April 27.Tickets are $17, senior $14,faculty/staff $12, student/youth $10. FFI: 320-363-5777, [email protected],www.csbsju.edu/fine-arts

ChicagoRochester Civic Theatre presents the Broadway musicalat the Rochester Civic Theatre, 20 Civic Center Dr. SE,Rochester. ASL performance is 8 p.m. Fri, April 27. Tick-ets are $25.50, senior $22.50, student $15.50. FFI: 507-282-8481, www.rochestercivictheatre.org

Enjoy a movie tonightSeveral theaters around the state offer accommodationsfor movie-goers, such as captioning or descriptive ser-vices. www.captionfish.com lists cinemas with access(AD/CC) features. Find theaters in your area by typing inyour zip code. MoPix-equipped Rear Window CaptionedFilms are listed at cam.wgbh.org/mopix/nowshowing.html#mn

This production is a ‘Work of Heart’Work of Heart, which is inspired by the visionary work

created by six artists from the Interact Studio, opensApril 28 in Minneapolis at The Lab Theater and continuesthrough May 19. The preview performance is April 27.

Work of Heart features actors with and without disabili-ties. It is an original production filled with music, danceand fantastic adventure, inspired by the paintings, sculp-tures, poetry and vivid worlds created by six Interact Stu-dio visual artists. Written by Dawn Brody, directed byLeah Adcock-Starr, with new music by Ivey award winnerAaron Gabriel, Work of Heart is a fun and imaginativestory of the unlikely hero who must save the world, featur-ing guest artists Heather Bunch, Leif Jurgensen and Sa-rah Nargang with the Interact ensemble.

In this remarkable tale of magic, war and transforma-tion, the ancient queen’s diary has been stolen and itssecrets could lead to the destruction of the world ofCressily. A terrified nation turns to the only person in allthe worlds who can save them—John Mathison, an ac-countant from Minneapolis. John and Queen Zwelga -along with a cast of memorable creatures and characters—set out on their bold quest to save the world.

The production combines the work of the Interact The-ater and the Interact Studio, and brings to life the deeplycolorful and complex portfolios of Peder Hagen, NickFlaming, Matt Zimdars, Anna Halvorson, Eve Newmanand Donovan Durham. As with all Interact theater, theplay is ensemble created and the multifaceted script de-velopment process included contemplation and discus-sion of the artwork and in-depth interviews with each ofthe artists.

“Inspiration for the music came from the visual artists them-selves,” said Gabriel. “Some songs are originals the artistscreated, some are inspired by a favorite musical artist and oth-

ers are collaborative pieces cre-ated to help tell the story.”

“Work of Heart is an imagi-native hero’s journey throughthe realms of a fantastical worldjust beyond the threshold of ourown,” said director Adcock-Starr. “A collaborative dance ofvisual art, theatre, and music,Work of Heart springs from thecollective creativity of a dazzlingarray of artists.”

Audiences will also enjoy thework and portfolios by the sixfeatured visual artists curated by Interact Gallery Coordi-nator Stephanie Rudd and installed in a unique galleyspace created at The Lab for this production.

Since 1996, Interact has offered the community abroad-reaching vision of radical inclusion, a philosophyin which every voice and people of every ability cometogether in a continually enriching stream of human po-tential and creative achievement. It is the only place ofits kind in the nation: a professional-level visual arts stu-dio and theater that supports the creative growth of art-ists with disabilities.

Interact is continuing its Dis/Cover the Arts offer withthis production. Tickets are available for $5 plus a $2.50transportation subsidy (for people using special needstransportation) are available to people with disabilities andtheir companions. Tickets can be reserved by calling 612-616-1727 and mentioning “Dis/Cover Tickets”. These tick-ets are available to people with disabilities plus one com-panion per person, based on availability. This special pro-gram is supported in part by the Medtronic Foundation,and by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.


UPCOMING EVENTSGet help

Service dog eye exams offeredRegistration is underway through April 30 for the 5th An-nual ACVO/Merial National Service Dog Eye Examevent, which provides free eye examinations to qualifiedservice dogs across the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.Last year, more than 4,000 service dogs were examined.Register online at www.ACVOeyeexam.org Exams occurduring May at participating veterinary ophthalmologiststhanks to the American College of Veterinary Ophthal-mologists (ACVO) and other sponsors. FFI:www.ACVOeyeexam.org

Scholarships availableCourage Center has announced that the EMPOWERScholarships. EMPOWER Scholarships are open to eth-nically diverse students for attendance at an institution ofhigher learning. Applicants must have demonstrated in-terest in medical or rehabilitation field by having somevolunteer involvement related to a healthcare field. Se-lection is based on the applicant’s intentions, achieve-ments, volunteerism and need. Applicant deadline isMay 15 and applicants must be a resident of Minnesotaor Western Wisconsin, and must identify how they will

use their educational training. Volunteer involvement inthe community is required. A minimum GPA of 2.0 on a4.0 scale is required. Request an application from Cour-age Center’s Volunteer Services Department, or down-load it. FFI: www.couragecenter.org/ContentPages/empower_details.aspx

Free house paintingMetro Paint-A-Thon helps low-income seniors andpeople with disabilities continue to live independently intheir own homes. Thousands of volunteers scrape, primeand paint their homes at no cost to the home owner. Vol-unteers from companies, congregations, civic groups,and schools paint homes the weekend of Aug. 4-5.Home owners must own and occupy a single-familyhome, in need of paint, but not in need of major repairs;live in Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scottor Washington counties; be 60 years of age or older, orhave a permanent physical disability or if under age 60and meet monthly income guidelines. Deadline is May 4.FFI: 612-276-1579; www.paintathon.gmcc.org

Workshops, conferencesHope for Recovery workshopThe National Alliance on Mental Illness of Minnesota(NAMI Minnesota) hosts a free, one-day educationworkshop that provides families and individuals with in-formation on mental illnesses, practical coping strate-gies, and hope for recovery. It is 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sat,April 14 at Regions Hospital, Teeter Library, 640 Jack-son St., St. Paul. Preregister. FFI: 651-645-2948.

Learn about Alzheimer’sAdults with intellectual and developmental disabilitiesand those who care for them are invited to a Sages fo-rum, Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease in Adults withDevelopmental Disabilities – Creating a Network of Sup-port. It is 1-3 p.m. Fri, April 27 at the Fellowship Hall ofChrist the King Church, 8600 Fremont Ave. S.,Bloomington. A panel of experts will share their knowl-edge about signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s in per-sons with developmental disabilities, the stages of thedisease, the increased occurrence of Alzheimer’s inadults with Down syndrome, and resources and strate-gies to improve quality of life for a person withAlzheimer’s. The organizations making up Sages areThe Arc Greater Twin Cities, Dakota Communities,Fraser, The Learning Exchange, Opportunity Partnersand ProAct. Register by April 24, Cost is $15. FFI GinaCarpenter, 952-681-6122,[email protected]

Managing Tourette syndromeProfessionals and parents of children with disabilitiescan join St. Lake City librarian and motivational speakerJosh Hanagarne as he shares the hope-filled story. He’lldiscuss his mother’s belief in him and his journey fromletting Tourette Syndrome control his life to becoming“the world’s strongest librarian.” He overcame his owncase of Tourette Syndrome and is now working to helpothers. He believes in curiosity, questions, strength, andthat things are never so bad they can’t improve. The freetalk is at PACER Center, 8161 Normandale Blvd, Mpls.Preregister. FFI: 952-838-9000, 1-800-537-2237,[email protected]

Youth and familiesSibshop Super SaturdayChildren in the Twin Cities west metro area ages 6-12who have brothers and sisters with intellectual or devel-

opmental disabilities can have fun and make friends atSibshop Super Saturday from The Arc Greater Twin Cit-ies, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.. Sat, April 21 at the Homeward HillsPark Barn, 12000 Silverwood Drive, Eden Prairie.Sibshop Super Saturday has all the fun, activities, dis-cussion and friendship of The Arc’s monthly Sibshops,packed into a single half-day session. If you don’t wantthe commitment of a monthly Sibshop or there isn’t onein your area, Sibshop Super Saturdays are a great alter-native. Sibshop Super Saturday is free for members ofThe Arc Greater Twin Cities and $15 per child for non-members. The cost includes a meal. Monthly Sibshopsare offered in Anoka, Apple Valley, Hastings, Hopkins,St. Paul and Stillwater. FFI: 952-920-0855,www.arcgreatertwincities.org

Parents with Disabilities groupParents with Disabilities is a new group offered by MetroCenter for Independent Living. This group is for peoplewho have disabilities and have children. Learn from andgrow with others who are dealing with the intricacies ofdisability and parenting responsibilities. Everyone’s ex-perience is valuable and questions are important. Thenext meeting is at MCIL 1600 University Ave W, St.Paul, 5-7 p.m. Monday April 23. Pre-registration re-quested. FFI: Corbett, 651 603 2028, [email protected]

PACER offers workshopsPACER Center offers useful free or low-cost workshopsand other resources for families of children with disabili-ties. Register in advance. All workshops are at PACERCenter, 8161 Normandale Blvd., Bloomington, unlessspecified.

Parents can join the conversation on the newParentsTalk blog. This new feature on PACER’s website(PACER.org) enables parents and advocates to shareinformation online that enhances the quality of life ofchildren and young adults with disabilities and their fami-lies. Parent advocates post new topics of discussion ev-ery month for parents of children with disabilities to re-spond to. Parents participate by contributing ideas andreading what other parents have to say while PACERstaff is monitoring the blog and posting responses.

Another resource is the Family-to-Family Health Infor-mation Center electronic newsletter, which offers a newway for families and professionals to receive the latestupdates on Minnesota health care issues, announce-ments from the Minnesota state health care programs,and information regarding F2F HIC activities and re-sources. FFI: 952-838-9000, 800-537-2237 (toll free),www.PACER.org.

Support groups, meetingsUCare meetingsUCare hosts informational meetings about its UCare forSeniors Medicare Advantage plan. Meetings are held allover the region. UCare for Seniors has more than75,000 members across Minnesota and western Wis-consin. UCare is an independent, nonprofit health planproviding health care and administrative services tomore than 185,000 members. UCare serves Medicare-eligible individuals throughout Minnesota and in westernWisconsin; individuals and families enrolled in income-based Minnesota Health Care Programs, such asMinnesotaCare and Prepaid Medical Assistance Pro-gram; adults with disabilities and Medicare beneficiarieswith chronic health conditions, and Minnesotans duallyeligible for Medical Assistance and Medicare FFI: 1-877-523-1518 (toll free), www.ucare.org ■


Radio Talking BookMarch sampling

Weekend Program BooksYour Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing Pas-sages in Caregiving, by Gail Sheehy, and Healing at theSpeed of Sound, by Don Campbell and Alex Doman; Forthe Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing TygerTyger, by Kersten Hamilton; Poetic Reflections (Sundayat noon) is airing Midnight Lantern, by Tess Gallagher;The U.S. and Us (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airing NorthCountry, by Mary Lethert Wingerd.

Books available through FaribaultBooks broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking BookNetwork are available through the Minnesota Braille andTalking Book Library in Faribault. Phone is 1-800-722-0550 and hours are 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday throughFriday. The catalog is online and can be accessed bygoing to the main website, http://education.state.mn.us,and then clicking on the link. Persons living outside ofMinnesota may obtain copies of books by contactingtheir home state’s Network Library for the National Li-brary Service.

Listen to the Minnesota Radio Talking Book, either liveor archived programs from the last week, on the Internetat www.mnssb.org/rtb. Call the staff for your password tothe site. See more information about events on theFacebook site for the Minnesota Radio Talking BookNetwork. Facebook is a fee social networking web site.Register at www.facebook.com

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

Personnel changesRadio Talking Book has some personnel changes in itsaudio services area. Michelle Thomas has replacedChris Schmiesser, after Schmiesser retired last summer.Thomas worked previously at South Minneapolis Voca-tional Rehabilitation Services. Thomas handles equip-ment problems and questions, and registers people forservices. She can be reached at 651-642-0885.

Dan Gausman has replaced Maureen Creason as theLibrary Technician in Audio Services. This position pro-cesses print materials for transcription into audio for-mats. Call him for any transcription for textbooks, voca-tional, leisure, or other reading needs at 651-649-5903.

Past is Prologue • Monday – Friday 9 a.m.Love and Capital, Nonfiction by Mary Gabriel, 2011. KarlMarx was a student without wealth or future when Jennyvon Westphalen, daughter of a Prussian baron, fell inlove with him. Together they journeyed through Europe,on the run from those alarmed by Marx’s revolutionaryideas. Read by Lannois Neely. 31 broadcasts. BeginsApril 30.

Bookworm • Monday – Friday 11 a.m.Falling Together, Fiction by Marisa de los Santos, 2011.Marisa de los Santos creates a portrait of people grow-ing and learning to live their lives with joy. Falling To-gether is an uplifting and powerful story of friendship,finding love, and looking at the world each day with theidea of living the moment for its beauty. L - Read bySherri Afryl. 15 broadcasts. Begins April 25.

The Writer’s Voice • Monday – Friday 2 p.m.Following Atticus, Nonfiction by Tom Ryan, 2011. After aclose friend dies of cancer, overweight, tough-as-nailsnewspaperman Tom Ryan decides to take his miniatureschnauzer and climb all forty-eight of New Hampshire’speaks to raise money for charity. The experiencechanged him. Read by Jim Gregorich. 10 broadcasts.Begins April 18.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb, Fiction byMelanie Benjamin, 2011. She was two-foot eight-inchestall, but her legend persists more than a century later.Lavinia “Vinnie” Bump reached out to the impresario P.T. Barnum, married the tiny superstar General TomThumb in the wedding of the century, and transformedinto the world’s most unexpected celebrity. Read byMaria Rubinstein. 12broadcasts. Begins April 30.

PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.That Used to Be Us, Nonfiction by Thomas L. Friedmanand Michael Mandelbaum, 2011. America faces four ma-jor challenges on which our future depends: globaliza-tion, the revolution in information technology, chronicdeficits, and excessive energy consumption. Read byJohn Demma. 16 broadcasts. Begins April 23.

Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.Two for Sorrow, Fiction by Nicola Upson, 2011.Josephine Tey decides to write a mystery based on mur-derers of the past. Her research will entangle her in thedesperate search for a modern-day killer. Read by IslaHejny. 15 broadcasts. Begins April 23.

Off the Shelf • Monday – Friday 10 p.m.Sanctus, Fiction by Simon Toyne, 2011. A man climbs acliff face on a mountain known as Citadel, a city-state incontemporary Turkey. This dangerous, symbolic act iswitnessed by the world, evidence that a new beginningis at hand. L - Read by Dan Kuechenmeister. 14 broad-casts. Begins April 17.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 11 p.m.The Icarus Syndrome, Nonfiction by Peter Beinart, 2010.On the eves of World War I, Vietnam, and Iraq, Ameri-can leaders decided they could remake the world in theirimage. Each time, leading intellectuals declared that his-tory was over and the spread of democracy was inevi-table. L - Read by John Potts. 20 broadcasts. BeginsApril 19.

Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnightEverybody Sees the Ants, Fiction by A.S. King, 2011. InLucky’s dreams, he has met his long-lost POW/MIAgrandfather and bullies can’t make him feel that life isn’tworth living. L,S - Read by Scott Brush. Eight broad-casts. Begins April 26.

After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.The Kingdom, Fiction by Clive Cussler and GrantBlackwood, 2011. Sam and Remi Fargo accept the pleaof an oil baron to help find his father. What they find isbeyond what they could have imagined. Read by JohnGunter. 12 broadcasts. Begins April 12. ■

AbbreviationsV - violence, L – offensive language, S - sexual situations.

MA-EPD - from p. 1

vices. This incentive has given people with disabili-ties the same rights as other citizens to work, paytaxes, own homes, and save for retirement that mostemployed people are offered. Van Heuveln said “hav-ing all this taken away at the age of 65 is contradic-tory to the initial incentive of the MA-EPD program.”

Gov. Mark Dayton’s budget, and the House andSenate Health and Human Services (HHS) omnibusbills all have language extending the age to qualifyfor MA-EPD pass the age 65, although the Senate billdoes not have real clear language about the other con-cerns as far as “disregards” such as spousal income,savings, burial funds or vehicles and how those affectan asset limit. If either the House or governor’s bud-get became state law, people on MA-EPD who havebeen on the program 20 months previous to reachingage 65 would be able to continue working and keeptheir assets.

There would be a cost to the state for the changes inMA-EPD, although the Senate cost remains unclear.The House proposal will cost the state around$440,000 in fiscal year 2013 and almost $700,000 infiscal year 2014 and 2015. These costs are a very smallpercentage of the overall yearly budget of Minnesota.

If passed this would be contingent on federalwaiver to extend the age limit for MA-EPD beyondthe age of 65 years. There have been several conver-sations with the Minnesota Department of Human

Services (DHS) and many of the legislators and lob-byists on pushing this waiver for the quickest re-sponse from the federal government.

This potentially could help Van Heuveln, from los-ing his independence, home and retirement becausehe’s turning 65 very soon. That doesn’t mean he andothers wouldn’t run into complications from the stateor federal government. One issue is that of not beingallowed to transfer money out of one’s possession for24 months prior to enrolling in MA. If that’s the case,Van Heuveln would have to retire to get his pension24 months prior to starting MA. Ironically he wouldthen have to find another job, at 65 years of age tomaintain his MA-EPD status which hinges on his in-dependence—a real Catch-22 situation.

Another alternative has come to light is the possi-bility that DHS could request to extend MA-EPD be-yond age 65 as part of the MA Reform DemonstrationWaiver, if the Minnesota Legislature doesn’t act. TheDisability Law Center has indicated they would re-quest MA-EPD extension to the MA Reform Waiverif state officials don’t act. This approach wouldn’thelp those who are retiring in 2012, but it would meannot having to wait for another legislative session foraction on the extension. The MA Reform Waiver wasslated for public comment until the end of March.Those comments could also be a factor in any deci-sion. ■


In the ruling Lindman stated, “The rationale behindthe distinction between relative PCAs and non-rela-tive PCAs is based on the moral obligations that rela-tive PCAs have towards helping their family membersand the valid assumption that relative PCAs will con-tinue to provide care even if affected by a pay cut. Ifrelative PCAs discontinue their services as a result ofthe (pay cut), qualifying individuals are able to con-tinue receiving services from a non-relative PCAwithout the 20% cut.”

That reversed a temporary restraining order he is-sued last fall that blocked the cuts. The orderlaunched a confusing series of actions by PCA agen-cies. Some made the cut with the idea of restoring paylater if necessary. Others may have to tell families torepay part of their wages if the cut is sustained.

The cut is especially hard on Minnesota peoplewith disabilities and their family members in ruralMinnesota, who sometimes lack access to PCA agen-cies. It also affects people of color and cultural com-munities where family or kinship care is a priority,said Tim Plant, chief executive officer of HealthstarHome Health a PCA agency in North St. Paul.

“The law requires unequal pay for equal work”Plant said. Some gave up careers and higher salariesto care for family members. One worry is that non-family members will not be able to provide the levelof care needed for some patients who require complex

PCA plight - from p. 1

Regional News - from p. 6

One child out of 88 is believed to have autism or arelated disorder, an increase in the rate attributedlargely to wider screening. Advocacy groups said thisis further evidence that autism research and servicesshould get more attention.The previous estimate was 1 in 110. The new figure isfrom the latest in a series of studies that have steadilyraised the government’s autism estimate. This newnumber means autism is nearly twice as common asofficials said it was only five years ago, and likely af-fects roughly 1 million U.S. children and teens.

“Autism is now officially becoming an epidemic inthe United States,” said Mark Roithmayr, president ofAutism Speaks, at a news conference where the newfigures were released March 29.

Health officials attribute the increase largely to bet-ter recognition of cases, through wider screening and

Now, permanently disabled, Ellis no longer has ajob. She does maintain a small apartment complex sheowns and has mentored others through the Brain In-jury Association of Minnesota. But the loud sounds ofcity life have her moving permanently to her Montanacabin next month.

When she dies, Ellis said she is donating her brainto science. Ellis hopes by studying her brain, it willhelp researchers better understand just what concus-sions can do to people. The report was part of aproject KARE-11 News recently aired on concussionsand sports. ■[Source: KARE-11]

care. Or, family members will be forced to put theirloved ones into nursing homes, which would cost thestate more in the long run.

“We were extremely disappointed with the judge’sruling,” Plant said, “We feel it’s absolutely wrong.”The Arc Minnesota, an advocacy group for peoplewith intellectual and developmental disabilities, hasalso objected to the ruling. “Judge Lindman may haveruled that this cut is legal, but it is not right,” saidSteve Larson, Senior Policy Director for The ArcMinnesota. “It is wrong to devalue the crucial rolethat 6,600 direct care staff provide to their familieshere in Minnesota. These workers are often the onlyones who understand the unique culture and languageof their relatives. They are often the only ones avail-able in Greater Minnesota to care for their familymembers. They have often made great personal sacri-fices to ensure their loved one receives needed sup-port, including leaving other paid positions and pro-viding many hours of uncompensated care.” The ArcMinnesota has called for state lawmakers to use someof the state surplus to restore the cuts.

A group of DFL House members announced March29 they would try to amend the omnibus health andhuman services bill to restore the wage cut. Rep. TinaLiebling, DFL-Rochester, called the reduction “one ofthe most tragic cuts” made last year. Her amendmentwas a chance to fix an injustice that is putting familiesat risk.

Liebling saw her amendment shot down March 29by Republicans, who said restoring the cut would betoo costly. During the floor debate, Rep. Jim Abeler,R-Anoka, said the cut was one of many difficultchoices forced by a tight state budget. Abeler pointedout that Minnesota is one of only 21 states that payfor family members to care for a relative with disabili-ties. The rationale for cutting family members’ wageswas that family members are less likely to quit pro-viding care.

Liebling and others said the cut is simply unfair.“This is really a labor of love,” she said. “We shouldbe thanking these people, not paying them less than astranger would make....Why in the world would weask these families to bear the brunt of our budget defi-cit?”

At the news conference prior to the House floorsession, Barbara Christenson, 72, of Brooklyn Parkdiscussed her family’s plight. Her 77-year-old hus-band, Charles, provides 48 hours of care each weekfor their son Steven, 48 (diagnose at 26 years old).Steven Christenson has multiple sclerosis and has sei-zures. He needs 24-hour care. Steven Christenson isunable to work. “How could we put him in a nursinghome when he already has lost so much?” BarbaraChristenson said. ■

Wrap up - from p. 3

Autism rates are increasing

MCTC - from p. 4

Once students are in the program a number of ser-vices are made available to them including personal-ized tutoring, intensive academic and career advising,and access to the tools necessary to attain their educa-tional goals. Other supports are also provided to en-hance educational needs and access.

The TRiO Disability Support Services Program islocated within the Disabil-ity Services Office. Thestaff includes Director Dr.Jennifer Brookins-King,and advisors JenniferScheffler and SteveAnderson. Scheffler andAnderson, who were hiredin March 2011, came toMCTC with years of ex-perience working withinthe disability field. Theyalso both uniquely under-stand the challenge havinga disability brings to at-taining an education andemployment since each ofthem has education and adisability. ■

vices and an amendment for the Health Services Ac-cess Commission to examine various autism treat-ment coverage.

One push this session has been by parents of chil-dren with autism, who have seen measures they sup-port amended into the omnibus bills. Several parentsof children with severe autism are asking lawmakersto allow more choices in the type of foster care set-tings for their children, so that their children are infacilities where staff is properly trained in manage-ment of residents with autism. A House committeepassed two bills last month. One authored by Rep.Kim Norton (DFL-Rochester) would instruct the hu-man services commissioner to work with counties tocreate an autism-specific foster care license for pro-viders with the training and skills to meet the specialneeds of children with autism. Rep. Kathy Lohmer(R-Lake Elmo) authored a bill ask the commissionerto develop a plan to create a residential campus forpersons diagnosed with autism up to age 21. Bothbills were approved by the House Health and HumanServices Reform Committee and sent on for furtheraction. Senate Majority Leader Sen. David Senjem(R-Rochester) sponsored both companion bills.

Many other bills are also in play. Willful neglect ofvulnerable adults could result in heightened criminalcharges. A bill sponsored by Rep. Steve Gottwalt(Republican -St. Cloud) and Sen. Warren Limmer (R-Maple Grove), would create a new felony crime forintentional deprivation of a vulnerable adult, such aswith food, clothing, shelter or health care, when thecaregiver “is reasonably able to make the necessaryprovisions.” Currently the worst charges in thesecases are gross misdemeanors. Gottwalt said the billis a bipartisan collaboration of many interested par-ties, including the provider community, law enforce-ment and prosecutors.

Prone restrains use in schools has also been a focusthis session. School staff with specific training mayphysically restrain out-of-control students with spe-cial needs. The House passed the bill March 28,which would extend the authorization to do sothrough the next school year. Sponsored by Rep. JimDavnie (DFL-Minneapolis) and Sen. Pam Wolf (R-Spring Lake Park), it would also require that the De-partment of Education gather data on prone restraints,with the intent of eventually replacing the practicewith a safe alternative. Davnie said that schools in theTwin Cities metropolitan area brought the issue to hisattention because they feel some students may pose adanger if the restraint authorization is allowed to ex-pire. He said that without prone restraints, some spe-cial students could instead be confined to their home.The Senate passed its bill 65-0. Following the 116-16House vote, the bill now awaits action by Dayton. ■

better diagnosis. But the search for the cause of au-tism is really only beginning, and officials acknowl-edge that other factors may be helping to drive up thenumbers. For decades, the diagnosis was given onlyto kids with severe language, intellectual and socialimpairments and unusual, repetitious behaviors. Butthe definition of the disorder has gradually expanded,so that now “autism” is also shorthand for a group ofmilder, related conditions, including Asperger’s syn-drome.

Meanwhile, there’s been an explosion in autism-related treatment and services for children. In 1990,Congress added autism as a separate disability cat-egory to a federal law that guarantees special educa-tion services. School districts have been building upautism-addressing programs since. The CDC study is considered the most comprehen-sive U.S. investigation of autism prevalence to date.Researchers gathered data from areas in 14 states—Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida,Georgia, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, NorthCarolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah andWisconsin. ■[Source: Pioneer Press]


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Martinez - from p. 1

have to raise your hands. I can’t count them anyway.”Martinez said her experiences as a child with a dis-

ability prompted her to pursue a life of service to oth-ers. “As a child, we lived very close to strawberryfields and orange groves in southern California and Ibecame increasingly aware of the farm workers whoworked in those fields. A student teacher in eighthgrade read the book Sweatshops in the Sun by RonaldB. Taylor for me on tape. The book was about childlabor on farms, and it profoundly influenced myawareness of working conditions in those fields just acouple blocks from my house. I soon became involvedin the youth effort to improve conditions for localfarm workers.”

Martinez said that her parents, who had limitededucation and English skills, feared for her future.“Fortunately, I was mainstreamed in the public schoolsystem from kindergarten through high school,” shesaid “This experience made me realize early on that Iwould have to develop different strategies.”

Martinez came to ODEP with a long resume as aninternationally recognized disability rights leader spe-cializing in employment, asset building, independentliving, international development, diversity and gen-der issues. Her experiences include tenure as execu-tive director of the California-based World Instituteon Disability (WID), director of Proyecto Visión,WID’s National Technical Assistance Center to in-crease employment opportunities for Latinos with dis-abilities in the United States, and Access to Assets, anasset-building project to help reduce poverty amongpeople with disabilities. At WID she led the team thatproduced the acclaimed international webzineDisabilityWorld in English and Spanish.

In 2002 she was appointed by President George W.Bush to the National Council on Disability, an inde-pendent federal agency advising the president andCongress on disability policy.

In 2007, she was appointed a member of the boardof the U.S. Institute of Peace, an agency created byCongress that is dedicated to research and projects inconflict management. She has also served on a StateDepartment advisory committee on disability and for-eign policy. ■

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