january 2013

Volume 24, Number 1 www.accesspress.org January 10, 2013

“It is amazing what youcan accomplish if you donot care who gets thecredit.” — Harry S. Truman

NEWS DIGEST

INSIDE

Mothers know bestThree women are honoredfor decades of advocacy

Nonprofit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDTwin Cities. MNPermit No. 4766

Address Service Requested

Courage Center, Sister Kenny merger will bring changes

Accessible Fun, pg 12

Events, pg 13

People & Places, pg 11

Radio Talking Book, pg 14

Regional News, pg 6

Jane Donnelly Birks, Sally Swallen Helmerichs and Molly Woehrlin arethree of the Heroes honored by The Arc Minnesota.

Courtsey of The Arc Minnesota

Familycaregivers winlegal victory

by Access Press staff

It’s the end of an era for two of the Twin Cities’ largest andmost prominent disability service organizations and the begin-ning of something new. Courage Center and Allina Health’s Sis-ter Kenny Rehabilitation Institute announced Dec. 14 that theywill merge. The merger, which is to be completed in spring2013, will allow the merged program to draw on the two organi-zations’ strengths. It will also provide more integrated care forpeople with disabilities who currently use both organizations.

Courage Center’s clinical programs will combine with thoseof Sister Kenny, and the two organizations will look for opportu-nities to integrate clinical care, community-based services, re-search, innovation, public policy and advocacy. The merger willproduce a uniquely comprehensive continuum of care includinginpatient, outpatient and community-based rehabilitation ser-vices designed to keep people healthy and independent.

While many questions, including the name, leadership andhow to best utilize both bricks and mortar locations of the neworganization, have to be worked out, staff and board members ofthe organizations have expressed confidence in what lies ahead.

Three women, regarded asamong The Arc Minnesota’searliest and most effectivelobbyists, were honored lastmonth at the organization’sSecond Annual Heroes Lun-cheon.

In the 1960s, the threemothers of children with dis-abilities began to make theirpresence known at the statecapitol. Jane Donnelly Birks,Sally Swallen Helmerichs,and Molly Woehrlin arecredited with helping to bringpeople with developmentaldisabilities and their familiesout of the shadows and intothe consciousness ofMinnesota’s citizens andelected officials.

The three were recognized not just for their work but as inspiration and a model to face currentchallenges and stay committed. As Birks said, “Although at times, it seemed like nobody was listen-ing, in the hearts of parents, the pull of their children’s condition was stronger than the force of de-spair.”

It was uncommon for women or parent volunteers to be lobbyists in the 1960s. In drawing atten-tion to their cause, the women were as creative as they were groundbreaking. Birks once organizeda petition drive to urge legislators to raise revenues for more funding for disability services. Nearly2,000 signatures were collected. She pasted the petitions into one large scroll and dropped it fromthe second floor into the capitol rotunda. Helmerichs unraveled it until it spilled out the front door.All Twin Cities news media covered the dramatic event.

“When I started working with The Arc, Sally directed the Community Health Education Network,an impressive library of resources to help people with disabilities develop independent living skills,”said Mike Gude, communications director for The Arc Minnesota. “She spoke frequently to parentsabout their grieving process when raising a child with disabilities. I quickly realized Sally was a

by Access Press staff

Paying family memberswho care for loved ones lessthan non-family membercaregivers is “arbitrary” andin violation of the equal pro-tection clause of the stateconstitution, the MinnesotaCourt of Appeals has ruled.The court ruling also ques-tions the rationale of stateofficials in assuming thatfamily members who providepersonal care attendant(PCA) services are morallycompelled to do so. The Dec.17 appeals ruling wascheered by families whosecaregivers sustained a 20percent pay cut in 2011.

State officials have untilmid-January to appeal thedecision. The 2012 Minne-sota Legislature was able topostpone the cut until July2013 thanks to dollars repaidto the state by health careplans.

The legal fight isn’t fin-ished on other fronts. Theappeals court sent the issueback to Ramsey County Dis-trict Court to settle the issueof attorneys’ fees for thePCA agencies and individu-

Mothers know best - p. 3

But it’s also seen as a part ofa trend in a changing healthcare world, where serviceproviders must find the bestways to provide care whilebalancing costs at a timewhen reimbursements havebeen cut and donations andother revenues are dropping.

“As an advocate on behalfof people with disabilities,we recognize that one of the challenges our clients face is afragmented system of rehabilitation services that is hard forboth clients and providers to navigate. By partnering to create amore seamless experience, we will make it easier for our clientsto get the care they need, which is key to improving outcomes,”said Jan Malcolm, chief executive officer of Courage Center.

“We are thrilled about what the coordinated strengths of ourorganizations will mean to the community,” said PennyWheeler, MD, chief clinical officer of Allina Health. “By com-bining the two, we blend the clinical care expertise of SisterKenny with the exceptional programming, advocacy and com-munity programs of Courage Center. In doing so, we can coor-dinate care, improve health and positively affect the lives ofpeople with disabilities.”

The overarching objective of this partnership is to succeed inmeeting the “triple aim” challenge of health reform: improvingthe experience of care, improving the health of people with a

Merger- p. 15

PCA 20% - p. 15

Legislative session starts Jan. 8preview on page 3

Read our look back at2012 in The Year in Re-view and see whatmade a difference.Page 5

Veterans with disabili-ties received little ser-viced until dedicatedwomen stepped forwardand provided them withhospitals and hope.Page 2

A preview of the 2013legislative session isoffered, with input froma number of key play-ers. Page 3

Use our Directory ofOrganizations to locatea number of helpful ser-vices.Pages 7-10

Photos courtesy of Eric White

Pg 2 January10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1

Women’s efforts aided veterans with disabilitiesHISTORY NOTE

EDITOR’S DESKTim Benjamin

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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by Jane McClure

In the United States, the history of providing ben-efits for veterans with disabilities dates back to 1636,when the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony were at warwith the Pequot Indians. The Pilgrims passed legisla-tion that stated that disabled veteran soldiers would besupported by their colony.

Revolutionary War veterans with disabilities ob-tained a pension provided by the Continental Con-gress of 1776. But the care of ill and disabled veteranswas largely left in the hands of states and a few fed-eral agencies, with a standardized system not goinginto place until the Veterans’ Administration was es-tablished in 1930.

In Minnesota, the first veterans’ hospitals were cre-ated by the American Legion Auxiliary. In his bookLegion 50, author Ben Gimmestad describes howwomen stepped forward after World War I to help theveterans. After the Auxiliary formed in Minnesota in1919, hospital visitation became its first major pro-gram.

Conditions for many disabled and ill veterans weregrim. Gimmestad wrote:

“These men had been housed wherever room couldbe found, in the basements of city hospitals, in jails,in county poor houses, even in insane asylums. Manywere destitute, and were bowed down with a feelingof depression and disgust. They had been forgotten bytheir government and everyone else, they reasoned.

Many were without a change of clothing, and were indire need of such items as pajamas, socks, bathrobes,slippers and handkerchiefs. Many were without fundto buy personal needs such as shaving cream, razors,tooth brushes and tooth paste, stationery, stamps orcarfare.”

The women sprang into action to meet these needs,to raise the veterans’ morale and to visit these forgot-ten veterans regularly. Gimmestad noted that thewomen wanted to let veterans with disabilities or dis-ease know that someone cared and that their countryhad not forgotten them.

The women worked with what was then the UnitedStates Health Service to open two veterans’ hospitals.The old Asbury Hospital in Minneapolis was leasedin 1920. The old Aberdeen Hotel, a once-grand struc-ture in St. Paul’s Ramsey Hill neighborhood, wasleased and converted into a makeshift hospital in1921. Another Twin Cities hospital was later con-verted for men with tuberculosis. Though these werefar from ideal facilities, they were much better thanthe grim conditions the men had faced before. All of

the buildings are gone today. Auxiliaries across the state

organized to meet the needs ofthe veterans. Women raisedfunds, including the sale ofpaper poppies, to help pay forveterans’ service. Soon thestatewide Auxiliary had alarge and active “committeeon the sick and disabled.”Gimmestad noted this wasdone by a very new organiza-tion, with a “thin purse.” Thewomen became adept at seek-ing donations.One 1921 report notes that

“We found the boys in want ofmany things which make forthe decencies of life.” Alongwith clothing and personal

History - p. 13

After last month’s editor’s column and our articleconcerning the Olmstead decision, I’ve been askedwhat “least restricted environment or setting” means,and what “most integrated setting” means. Theyshould be easy questions to answer but they’re not.The United States Supreme Court has struggled withthem as much as you and I. The Olmstead decisionsets the higher standard with its language requiringthe “most integrated setting,” so it’s the most impor-tant one to understand. That definition, according tothe US Department of Justice, is: “a setting that en-ables individuals with disabilities to interact withnon-disabled persons to the fullest extent possible.”Integrated settings are those that provide individualswith disabilities opportunities to live, work, and re-ceive services in the greater community, like individu-als without disabilities. Integrated settings are lo-cated in mainstream society; offer access to commu-nity activities and opportunities at times, frequenciesand with persons of an individual’s choosing; affordindividuals choice in their daily life activities; and,provide individuals with disabilities the opportunityto interact with non-disabled persons to the fullestextent possible. Evidence-based practices that pro-vide scattered-site housing with supportive servicesare examples of integrated settings. By contrast, seg-

regated settings often have qualities of an institu-tional nature.

Even now there’s discussion about adding differentverbiage to “most integrated setting” so that it appliesmore easily to educational settings, and housing andcommunity living plans. But we hope any suchchanges will not water down the definition or makethe determination more subjective.

The fiscal cliff dilemma has been resolved for now,without much damage to Medicaid, Medicare or So-cial Security, all long-standing programs that peoplewith disabilities depend upon. Initially, the oppositionargument was that there should be “shared sacrifice,”or service cuts equal to any tax increases. It seems tome, though, that over the last eight to 10 years, essen-tial services for the disability community have alreadytaken on more than their fair share of sacrifice. Thegovernment has been cutting programs every waythey could to save money, with decreased reimburse-ment rates to all service providers, changed eligibilityrequirements for many programs and deep cuts onmost waivered services.

One provision of the Affordable Care Act that wasrepealed in the new Jan. 1 “fiscal cliff” legislationwas the Community Living Assistance Service andSupport program. CLASS had been championed bythe late Sen. Ted Kennedy as a voluntary public long-term insurance care option that would have addresseda number of issues, including many related to per-sonal care attendants. What we got instead was a bi-partisan commission. Its charge is to establish high-quality systems that ensure the availability of long-term services and supports for the elderly, individuals

with substantial cognitive and functional needs andfor those who require assistance to perform activitiesof daily living. The commission will be 15 people ap-pointed by the White House and leaders from bothparties in both Houses of Congress. With any luck, acouple appointees will be from Minnesota. Issues ad-dressed will include fostering personal responsibility,ensuring flexibility in choice of long-term services,providing supports for the healthcare workforce andfor family caregivers, and expanding community-based services for our senior citizens. The commis-sion is to be formed within the first month of enactingthe law, and must present their findings within sixmonths to the White House and Congress.

It’s discouraging that the administration decidedthat they could not, as Health and Human ServicesSecretary Kathleen Sebelius said, “see a viable pathforward for CLASS implementation at this time,” andkicked the ball down the road to a not-yet-existentcommission. My first reaction was, “Really? Anothercommission, again?” and I’m not alone in being con-cerned that a commission’s findings will just end upon some shelf never visited. Still, I hope that thecommission will resist institutional bias, and that soonsome part of the billions of dollars spent in state andcorporate nursing homes will go into community-based services where our smaller independent medicalprovider businesses can prosper off these shifts ingovernment spending. We should probably writemembers of the commission to make sure they knowthat “most integrated setting” definition.

I hope to see you at the capitol during the 2013Legislative session. Remember, our future depends onour involvement and self-advocacy there and inWashington DC. Send those emails and letters, andcome on down to the halls of power. ■

January 10, 2013 Volume 24, Number 1 Pg 3

Legislative preview

New faces, new efforts mark start of 2013 legislative sessionby Jane McClure

When the 2103 session of the Minnesota legislature began Jan. 8, hundreds ofdisability advocacy groups and self-advocates went to work. Some will be moni-toring bills and painstakingly checking budgets line by line. Others will be testify-ing and lobbying for specific legislation.

Although there is optimism about a DFL-controlled House, Senate andgovernor’s office, there are also concerns. Some worry that the 2013 session willbe one of continuing to fight against funding cuts, given the state’s $1.1 billionbudget deficit.

In the lobbying ranks, familiar faces will be joined by newcomers. RebeccaCovington will be representing the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Dis-abilities (MN-CCD) as its newly hired executive director.

One of the self-advocates who will be present is Kurt Rutzen, longtime activistwith The Arc Minnesota, MN-CCD and other groups. His testimony in past yearshas helped stave off major cuts to Medical Assistance and other health programs.

“There have been many cuts in the disability community, seems like every yearsince I’ve been working down there, seems like more and more cuts come all thetime,” Rutzen said.

Rutzen said he has sense a shift in attitudes at the capitol and a move away froman attitude of taking care of people. “Now sometimes I wonder about that. Takingcare of disabilities is not a want, it’s a need,” Rutzen claimed.

“Whenever folks are thinking of cutting these services, I hope and pray that theytry to make it personal and ask themselves questions like, if they took away mysalary and benefits what would I do? And then make the decisions,” he said.

Dozens of disability-related issues will be raised during the session and AccessPress will provide coverage. Here is a look at a few upcoming efforts:

Advocates note that a challenge during any legislative session is in makingthemselves heard. One group working to promote its bill is Unite 2 Fight Paralysis,which wants legislation passed to fund spinal cord and traumatic brain injury re-search. Matthew Rodreick, outreach coordinator for the coalition, said supportersinclude the Reeve Foundation, Minnesota Spinal Cord Injury Association, TheSpinal Cord Society, University of Minnesota, the Courage Center’s ABLE pro-gram and other groups. The Jack Jablonksi/Gabe Rodreick Spinal Cord Injury/Traumatic Brain Injury Funding bill is named for two young people who have sus-tained such injuries.

The group recently persuaded Minnesota Vikings kicker Chris Kluwe to spend aday in a wheelchair for a video. A screening/fundraising event is 7 p.m. Thursday,Jan. 24th at the Brave New Workshop ETC in Minneapolis. The event will includeshort presentations by Sen. Jeff Hayden, spinal cord injury researcher Dr. Ann Parrand Rodreick. Kluwe may or may not be present, depending on the Vikings’ play-off status. Admission is $15, with hors’d oeuvres and a cash bar.

While they may not have a Viking in their ranks, advocates for autism will havegrowing presence at the state capitol. A number of groups have been working on

developing recommendations on autismservices recently, including the MinnesotaDepartment of Human Services (DHS)Health Services Advisory Council, theMinnesota Autism Spectrum DisorderTask Force, and a DHS-sponsored com-munity stakeholder workgroup. Eachgroup is expected to release a report soon.

One of 2013’s biggest issues is pro-posed reforms to coverage through theMinnesota Health Care Programs. No de-tails have been announced, but it is ex-pected to be part of Gov. Mark Dayton’sbudget recommendations.

Fraser is one organization tracking theproposal. Fraser serves thousands ofpeople with autism, including a licensedmental health program that providesmultidisciplinary intervention services forchildren.

“Our first priority is to protect familiesfrom any unintended consequences,” saidDiane Cross, president and CEO at Fraser.“DHS has told us that their focus is on improving services, and not on restrictingservices. The challenge is that each family has such unique needs. We’ll bewatching to make sure that families continue to have access to a mix of services.It takes a lot of stakeholders, like counties, health plans, physicians, schools, andother service providers, to ensure that children receive the right level of care at theright time—especially for those children who have the most intense needs.”

Yet another area to watch is paratransit. At lot is at stake for paratransit and thedisability community. By federal law, paratransit service is tied to regular transitservice routes and hours. The advocacy group Transit for Livable Communities(TLC) has taken a lead role on transit and paratransit services.

TLC will work with partners including the Minnesota Public Transportation As-sociation (MPTA) to advocate for additional funding for transit in greater Minne-sota.

Many bus and rail projects are eyed in the Twin Cities region. “But, if we don’tnail down the funding, our progress on making transit available could stop,” saidHilary Reeves of TLC. “At current funding levels, no projects are certain after theCedar Avenue bus rapid transit and the Central Corridor light rail. Unless we fig-ure out a larger funding picture, we are likely to be fighting cuts rather than build-ing the system—in the metro and in greater Minnesota.” ■

Kurt Rutzen is one of the mainstays at theMinnesota State capitol.

File photo

woman of great compassion.” Helmerichs also did workshops for direct care staff,medical professionals, and police officers to work more effectively with peoplewith disabilities.

“I met Jane and Molly when The Arc Minnesota celebrated its 50th anniversary.Jane had been a leader with The Arc Minnesota and with the then-St. Paul chapterof The Arc (SPARC). Jane has a great sense of humor, a strong dose of humility,a talent for telling fascinating stories about her involvement in The Arc and publicpolicy, and an incredible determination to improve lives,” Gude said.

Birks and Helmerichs were volunteer lobbyists when The Arc began having avisible presence at the capitol. They worked with the first executive director, JerryWalsh. Woehrlin later commuted from Northfield to join them, sharing their deter-mination to change how people with developmental disabilities are treated. ARedbook magazine reporter writing about The Arc in the 1960s stated, “When Ifirst met Molly, I thought she was a pleasant person; I realized after a while thatshe was a real powerhouse.”

Woehrlin helped break new ground as The Arc Minnesota’s board president,she spoke publicly in 1970 against any new facilities at Cambridge State Hospital.She urged that the hospitals be phased out and called for increased community-based services.

Gude cited several qualities the women share, noting that “They were every-where and did everything. They found authors for bills, prepared the bills for intro-duction by legislators, and lobbied legislators to pass these bills. When not at thecapitol, they activated The Arc’s statewide chapter network late into the nightfrom The Arc Minnesota office. They did radio talk shows interviews, spoke tomedical students, and took turns flying across the state with then Gov. KarlRolvaag to share information throughout Minnesota”

They were also very persistent and became known as forces to be reckonedwith. Birks described their lobbying tactics:

“[We] roamed the marble-floored hallways and [legislators’] offices . . . [We] be-came friends of [their] secretaries, who gave us access to telephones, committeemeetings, and lawmaker’s whereabouts. From these stakeouts, we cornered our prey.If necessary, we stalked them on to the House and Senate floors, a practice that thelegislature eventually forbade. Years later, a senator told Sally that she and I werethe reason the doors to the House and Senate chambers were closed to lobbyists.”

When the women activated The Arc’s membership, legislators were flooded

Mothers know best - from p. 1

with messages. During the debate on one bill, telegrams piled up so high on statesenators’ desks that correspondence was no longer delivered to the Senate floor.

When they couldn’t reach legislators directly, they organized tours for the legis-lators’ wives, including a trip to the state hospitals. After the wives saw the filth,the babies in cribs with soiled diapers, and the residents given nothing to do andlittle care, several became nauseated. One of them said, “The wards were so de-pressing that I covered my eyes. My husband will hear about this.”

The three women helped expose the isolation and horrors at state institutions,secure millions in funding for disability services, and set the legislative foundationfor today’s community-based services. ■

This article was written with notes from The Arc Minnesota luncheon and thespeech that introduced Birks, Helmerichs and Woehrlin.


Guest editorial

Access shapes and guides our everyday livesby John Van Hecke, director and fellow, Minnesota 2020

For me, access isn’t an ethereal concept; it’s practical. Access shapes, directsand guides my life. More to the point, lack of access shapes my life. Because I usea wheelchair, if I can’t get into a building, I can’t participate in the building’s ac-tivity. On Dec. 11, I couldn’t get into the Minnesota state capitol, the seat ofMinnesota’s democracy.

I have muscular dystrophy, a genetic, progressively debilitating muscle disease.Specifically, I have limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, a relatively mild variant. I say“relatively” because all muscular dystrophy is a one-way path to disability. Themost common form, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, mostly affects boys and ismostly terminal by 20 years of age although that’s changing.

Consequently, I consider myself fortunate. I was diagnosed at 40 and didn’t startusing a power wheelchair until two years ago. I rely on my chair to cover distanceand, increasingly, to rise from a sitting position but I still walk with a cane aroundthe house and office. I’m not eager to give up walking any time soon but I knowthat day is coming.

Dec. 9 was a big snow day. We had a foot fall in our yard. On Dec. 10, as every-one was digging out, I worked from home. I wrote a Minnesota 2020 Hindsightblog post about gratefully watching St Paul’s snowplows clear our street. Living inMinnesota means learning to accommodate the weather, handicapped or not. Afoot of wet snow, followed by sub-freezing temperatures, wreaks havoc despite thebest efforts of underfunded public road maintenance departments. I’m from here. Iknow this.

On Tuesday midmorning, I had an event at the state capitol. I left early, allow-ing extra time for post-storm travel. The streets were sloppy and slidey but trafficmoved with cautious determination. I made it to the capitol with time to spare.

The capitol is a wonderful, magnificent building, inviting and welcoming whilecommunicating policymaking’s gravity. But it’s not the most accessible place inthe world. As reasonable security precautions, all public foot traffic enters throughthe main, ceremonial entrance exactly as architect Cass Gilbert designed. Everyother portal requires a coded ID badge. The handicapped accessible entrance is un-derneath the main steps, off of the old carriage portico. It’s unstaffed, requiringbuzzing the security office for remote lock release to enter the building. I was pre-pared for this. I wasn’t expecting a parking problem.

Parking at the capitol is always tight, especially during the legislative session.Both the public and assigned spots had been cleared of snow. The handicappedparking spaces at the capitol steps’ base were not. Not only were they snowed in,

the sidewalk next to them hadn’t beenshoveled either. I couldn’t park. I couldn’texit my accessible minivan. I was stuck,looking up at the capitol but unable toreach it. I didn’t make my event.

This happens to me a lot. It’s a realityof my physical limitations. Because of theAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA),government and commercial space is headand shoulders more accessible than nearlyall homes. Pretty much every Minnesotahouse is three-to-five vertical steps fromsidewalk to door which, for a wheelchairuser, is three-to-five steps too many. So, Idon’t go to house parties much anymore.

Some of my favorite restaurants andcoffee shops are in older buildings. Manyaccessibility requirements are waived because the business use predates ADA.They’re not required to improve accessibility, only to be safety and fire-code com-pliant. Still, more often than not, accessibility is an operational afterthought. Apacked place, with tables and chairs shoved cheek to jowl is almost as inaccessibleas a four-inch curb. So, I don’t go to those restaurants much anymore either.

I’m just one person but I represent many more. Increasingly, as the baby-boomerpopulation ages, public accessibility becomes a financially make-or-break issue forservice and hospitality businesses. This, in turn, reveals the public policy issue.Minnesota is stronger, better and more prosperous when we reduce barriers to ac-cess, expanding productivity and profitability. When I can’t enter your place ofbusiness, you leave my money on the table.

Coincidentally, in the mail, I received my Muscular Dystrophy AssociationQuarterly Review announcing an “Online Tips for Success” resource kit, includinga section on advocating to elected officials. “You,” it notes, “are an expert on you.Share your personal experience.” Snow and blocked handicapped parking spacesmight slow me down but they’re never going to silence me.

Lots of parking spaces were still blocked two days after the storm. The statecapitol’s parking situation wasn’t exceptional, just highly symbolic. Smart publicpolicy considers challenges, analyzes data and creates a plan. When we focus onwhat matters, Minnesota moves forward. Access matters. ■

John Van HeckePhoto courtsey of Minnesota 2020


2012 in review

Gains, changes for Minnesota’s disability community2012 could be considered a year of memorable gains for Minnesotans with dis-

abilities especially at the state capitol. There were many self advocates and statelawmakers who took steps to undo some of the damaging service cuts made duringprevious sessions, and had significant success.

It was also a year of considerable challenges. One issue that dominated the me-dia headlines was the voter identification ballot question. Many self-advocates anddisability advocacy groups opposed the proposal saying it would make it harderfor many people with disabilities to vote. There was relief and celebration whenthe measure was defeated.

Financial difficulties continue to be felt directly by disability service organiza-tions, which are struggle in a tough economy. Some wereforced to close their doors. Others made strategic cuts ormergers.

Many community leaders were lost in 2012, includedMetropolitan Independent Living Services owner David“Mike” Dreier, inventor Jeffrey Farnham and activist KarenBoersma, Boersma was the first poster child for United Ce-rebral Palsy Minnesota.

JanuaryFifteen-year-old wheelchair athlete Rose Hollerman sued

the Minnesota State High School League. The Waterville-Elysian-Morrison High School student wanted the right tocompete against runners at high school athletic events.Hollerman stars in basketball for Courage Center and is aParalympics athlete. Her law-suit resulted in more track andfield events for wheelchairathletes and rule changes.

The Arc Minnesota warilyeyed proposed cuts to specialeducation programs, as the2012 legislative session gotunderway. Some state law-makers claimed programscaused a paperwork burden;Arc leaders and self-advo-cates said the cuts would gutimportant programs.

Partners in Policymakingpromoted its self-advocacyprogram. Plymouth residentsJeff Pearson and daughterAbby, who has epilepsy usedtheir training to advocate forservices.

FebruarySerious injuries to two young Minnesota hockey players put the spotlight on the

sport’s dangers, especially rough checking. Courage Center responded by steppingup its efforts to educate athletes about the risks of spinal cord injuries. Especially,after the SC injuries to the athletes from Benilde-St. Margaret and St. CroixLutheran schools made the news.

St. Paul’s Thompson Hall, a historic social hall for the deaf and hearing im-paired, earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. The hall, built in1916, is now eligible for funding to preserve the property and interpret its history.

People Incorporated Mental Health Services announced it would be taking overseveral programs from Children’s Home Society and Family Services.

MarchBullies got attention, but not for being mean. “All About Bullies. . . Big and

Small!” won a Grammy Award for Best Children’s Album. All sale proceeds goto PACER Center’s National Center for Bullying Prevention. Philadelphia-basedCool Beans Music produced the CD.

Maltreatment of patients at the Minnesota Security Hospital at St. Peter wasscrutinized. Use of metal handcuffs, seclusion, mesh blankets and face coveringsroiled the troubled mental health facility.

Lee Perish was remembered for work for theater access. As a deaf woman whoalso used a wheelchair, Perish made the quest for accessible performances a prior-ity. She also was involved in a legal case against Abbott Northwestern Hospital,changing how hospitals work with deaf and hearing-impaired clients.

AprilFamily members who provide PCA care made their case at the state capitol.

About 6,000 Minnesotans provide care to family members with disabilities. Butthey are paid 20 percent less than non-relative care providers, as a result of a cutmade during the 2011 special legislative session. The cut mean some workers hadtheir wages drop from $10 to $8 per hour.

Kathleen Martinez, a lead disability employment issues advisor to Pres. Barak

Obama, appeared in the Twin Cities to discuss job opportunities for people withdisabilities.

Rep. John Kriesel, R-Cottage Grove, announced he wouldn’t seek a second termin the Minnesota Legislature. The military veteran lost his legs in a roadside bomb-ing in Afghanistan. He had worked on disability issues while he was a legislator.

MayState lawmakers restored some 2011 funding cuts when the health and human

services bill was sign by Gov. Mark Dayton. Restoration was thanks to fundingthat health care plans returned to Minnesota’s coffers. Many community advocates

attended the bill signing. One huge win for families whoprovided personal care attendant services was temporaryrestoration of a 20 percent pay cut.

The Arc of Mower County marked 60 years of providingservice to southern Minnesotans with developmental dis-abilities. The group had a long history and ties to manyother service groups.

News was less favorable for longtime disability serviceorganization United Cerebral Palsy of Minnesota. Fundingcuts ultimately closed the organization, which was foundedin 1949.

JuneThe Minnesota Department of Human Rights announced a

settlement with Greyhound Lines. Changes were made toserve passengers with disabilities, in response to a com-plaint filed in 2010 by Shoreview resident Mark Hughes. An

investigation by state officials found thatGreyhound violated the state human rightsact. Willmar resident Kevin Haakenson wonthe Participant of the Year award fromGoodwill/Easter Seals Minnesota. He washonored at the organization’s Power ofWork event. After sustaining a traumaticbrain injury, Haakenson struggled tomaintain work until enrolling in a sup-ported employment program.VSA Minnesota had to make cuts to artprograms and services, due to loss of all ofits federal funding. Ways to make up forthe cuts were being explored.

July To disclose or not to disclose? A forumon disability disclosure for employmentand community integration drew a fullhouse to Ramsey County’s Roseville li-brary. Representatives of state agencies,employers and people with disabilities dis-

cussed whether or not prospective employees should disclose disabilities.The 2012 Minnesota Legislature placed the question of Voter ID on the Novem-

ber ballot, in the form of a constitutional amendment. Proponents said requiringvoters to show identification would reduce fraud. Opponents said it could disen-franchise people with disabilities,

A park in St. Paul’s Midway, Dunning Park, was eyed as the first Miracle Fieldsite in the capital city. The field would have a cost of $250,000 and could be usedby young baseball players with disabilities.

2012 in review - p. 14

Diamond Hill TownhomesDiamond Hill Townhomes is a great property located near theMinneapolis International Airport. We have spacious two and threebedroom townhomes that are HUD subsidized and rent is 30% of thetotal household’s adjusted gross income.

Our Three Bedroom waiting list is now open and we are currentlyaccepting applications. Our non-accessible Two Bedroom waiting listremains closed.

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

We look forward to hearing from you!Please call (612) 726-9341.

File photos


Roadmap to a healthier Minnesota released

REGIONAL NEWS

“Employment is so important, not just in terms ofeconomic security, but also in how it helps unlock thepotential of individuals to strive and seek andachieve,” said Minnesota Human Services Commis-sioner Lucinda Jesson. That was her message at theDec. 5 “Together, We Work,” the first conferencehosted by Minnesota APSE (Association of PeopleSupporting Employment First) and Pathways to Em-ployment. The two-day event brought together peoplewith disabilities, employers, supported employmentservice providers and advocates to make connectionsand discover ways to increase employment opportuni-ties even in times of scarce resources.

With $15 million in federal grants since 2000, Min-nesota has used Pathways to Employment to build in-frastructure, promote change and improve work out-comes. The legacy includes the Disability Benefits101 website, which provides tools and information onhealth coverage, benefits and employment so thatpeople with disabilities can plan for their work life, aswell as an assessment process that identifies individu-

The Minnesota Health Reform Task Force votedDec. 13 to endorse the Roadmap to a Healthier Min-nesota, including its recommendations for how to in-crease access to high quality care at lower cost. Thereport outlines eight strategies for policymakers toconsider as they work to implement federal and statehealth reforms, including recommendations regardingincreased access, care integration and payment re-form, prevention and public health and preparing theMinnesota health workforce of the future.

“These thoughtful recommendations are the resultof deep discussion over the past year on the mostpressing health care issues and best opportunities forreform in Minnesota,” said Human Services Commis-sioner Lucinda Jesson, who chairs the task force.

The Roadmap includes policy strategies for creat-ing more patient-centered coordinated care, changingpayment structures to incentivize keeping peoplehealthy, engaging communities in designing healthier

Tinnitus sidelines radio hostVeteran radio personality Ian Punnett stepped down

from myTalk 107.1 FM’s morning radio show due totinnitus. The co-host of “Ian and Margery” needs toreduce his exposure to audio and focus on his healthissues. Buzzing in his ears, headaches and relatedsleep issues have been a problem for Punnett since2009. He first experienced tinnitus while at the Min-nesota State Fair.

Personal care attendants may organizeDozens of personal care assistants who care for the

elderly and people with disabilities were at the statecapitol Dec. 12, to press their case. They said tens ofthousands of their number are struggling to make endsmeet because of low wages and lack of benefits.

The workers seeking to organize are those who arepaid with Medicaid dollars at rates set by the state,said Brian Elliott, executive director for the Minne-sota chapter of the Service Employees InternationalUnion (SEIU).

Current state law prohibits home health care work-ers from organizing a union. Many workers believehaving a union is critical to making their voices heardas the state plots its course for meeting the needs of arapidly aging population. Workers also believe aunion would help legitimize the home health care pro-fession and ensure workers are treated with the re-spect they deserve. But there are concerns that union-ization could add to costs of personal care attendantor PCA services.

SEIU Healthcare and Council 5 of the AmericanFederation of State, County and Municipal Employ-ees (AFSCME) are leading the charge to change statelaw. The distinction made in state law is betweenworkers employed by home health care agencies,many of whom are unionized already, and workerswho are providing so-called “self-directed” care. Con-sidered more like independent contractors by thestate, workers in self-directed programs are deniedorganizing rights. ■

(Source: SEIU, Union Advocate)

environments and encouraging increased personal re-sponsibility in health and health care. Specific recom-mendations include support for expanding Medicaideligibility to Minnesotans living at or below 133 per-cent of the federal poverty level (an option for statesunder the Affordable Care Act) and support for estab-lishment of a Minnesota-based health insurance ex-change using a public-private governance model.

The Health Reform Task Force was authorized bythe Legislature to provide advice on federal and statehealth reform implementation. The task force held 65public meetings between November 2011 and Decem-ber 2012, including meetings in Rochester, Duluth, St.Cloud and St. Paul. Over the course of the past year,approximately 1,500 people attended these public taskforce meetings, including more than 100 individualsand organizations that provided in-person testimony.Thousands of people weighed in with their ideas. ■

(Source: Minnesota Department of Human Services)

‘Together, We Work’ conferenceals’ strengths with an eye to employment, partner-ships with schools to help young people with disabili-ties make the transition from school to work, andtechnical assistance to service agencies to increasecompetitive employment and earnings for people withdisabilities.

Jesson said jobs continue to be a top priority for thestate, and jobs for people with disabilities a top prior-ity for the department. ■

(Source: Minnesota Department of Human Services)

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

Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) V-651-646-8342 www.mcil-mn.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

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

Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) V-651-646-8342 www.mcil-mn.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

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

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-612-353-6638 www.upstreamarts.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

We’re here 24/7 onFacebook, Twitter andwww.accesspress.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-651-379-9744 www.theccpinc.com/employment_support.aspx

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 CARECornerstone 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

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

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

CONTINUED

“ I have been an In Home client for at least 20 years. During that timeI have received excellent, reliable, consistent care from PCAs and

HHA’s trained and supervised by In Home.” - Jean T (Client)

Serving Adults and Childrenwith Long-Term Needs since 1991

At In Home Personal Care, we pride ourselves not only on thehelp we provide, but also on our ability to listen. We understandthat each of our clients has different needs at different times. Ourquality home care services are formed around a plan that works

for you and your individual situation.

Your home, your independence . . . 763-546-1000

8441 Wayzata Blvd; Suite 130

Golden Valley, MN 55426

Ellen Houghton • [email protected]

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HOUSING-RENTAL (continued)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 RESOURCESAssistive Technology of Minnesota V-763-479-8239 TF-866-535-8239 www.atmn.org

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


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

LEGALMN 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

HME Medical Shop V-800-258-6313 F-800-258-6313 www.hmemedicalshop.com

Key Medical Supply, Inc. 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

People Incorporated Mental Health Services V-651-774-0011 TTY-651-774-6535 www.PeopleIncorporated.org

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

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-612-353-6638 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

CONTINUED


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GOLD SPONSOR($500 and above)Phyllis A. Benjamin (In

Memoriam)Michael BjerkesettNatl. Handicapped Housing

InstituteTamarack Habilitation Tech., Inc.

BENEFACTOR SPONSOR($1000 and above)In Home Personal CareRonna LinrothLynda MilnePaul MuellerThe Jay & Rose Phillips Family FoundationThe Medtronic FoundationThe Minneapolis FoundationThe Otto Bremer FoundationUCare

In Kind(Time/services for this issue)FraserMike GudeKurt RutzenTransit for Livable CommunitiesUnite 2 Fight ParalysisEric White

REHABILITATION (Physical, Occupational, Speech, Audiology Therapists — continued)Fraser V-612-861-1688 F-612-861-6050 www.fraser.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

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


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-952-767-3350 F-952-767-3351 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 SERVICESMetro Meals On Wheels V-612-623-3363 F-612-331-9401 www.meals-on-wheels.com

Restart, Inc. V-952-767-3350 F-952-767-3351 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 V-651-428-5059 V-612-486-5180 www.acb.org

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

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

Date:_____________________________ Amt. Enclosed $___________________________

Name______________________________________________________________________

Address____________________________________________________________________

City/State/Zip ________________________________________________________________

Phone______________________________________________________________________

Email______________________________________________________________________


Rise Incorporated, Chair Gene Merriam has an-nounced that Lynn Noren has been named presidentof Rise Inc. She succeeds John Barrett who has ledthe nonprofit organization for 36 years. She takes thehelm Jan. 1.

KeyStone Search, a prominent Twin Cities execu-tive recruiting firm, led the search for the Rise Boardof Directors. KeyStone’s nationwide outreach to iden-tify qualified candidates resulted in more than 200prospective candidates.

“The Rise Board of Directors did a thorough job inconsidering a slate of strong candidates for this posi-tion,” said Marcia Ballinger, PhD, Principal atKeyStone Search. “Rise has a great reputation in thiscommunity which led to a large number of qualifiedapplicants for the position.”

Noren has been with Rise for more than thirty yearsand has served in increasingly responsible positionswithin Rise. Most recently, she was vice president/chief operating officer.

“I am so excited to be selected as Rise’s president,”said Noren. “It is a great honor to follow the leader-ship of John Barrett who has served the organizationfor so many years. Rise has a rich history providingservice excellence to people with disabilities andother barriers to full participation in the community.

The work we doeach day is led by aquality staff teamwho are committedto the organization’smission. I look for-ward to leading theorganization into avery bright future.”

Noren earned aB.A. degree in hu-man services admin-istration from Met-ropolitan State Uni-versity and holds anExecutive Master’s degree in rehabilitation adminis-tration from the University of San Francisco.She is an active and prominent leader in the commu-nity. Among many other activities, she is chair of theGovernmental Affairs Committee of the MinnesotaHabilitation Coalition as well as a member of theMinnesota Department of Human Services ExpertPartner Panel and the Long-Term Care Provider Coa-lition. She is a long-time CARF surveyor and has pre-sented on accreditation issues at regional and interna-tional conferences and seminars.

New guests hosts for Disability Viewpoints

Mark Hughes, executive producer of the award-winning cable television show “Disability View-points,” has added six guest co-hosts beginning withthe show to be aired in February. Nikki Abramson,Mike Chevrette, Imani Cruzen, Nikki Villavicencio,Joan Willshire, and Nick Wilkie will co-host “Dis-ability Viewpoints” with Hughes.

“Disability Viewpoints” is co-produced by Hughesand Jo Ann Erbes. For 15 years, Hughes has hostedthe show on North Suburban Access CommunicationsCTV Channel 15. The show is also rebroadcast onTwin Cities Public Television. The producers arepleased to bring in a talented group of co-hosts.

The focus of “Disability Viewpoints” is to give dis-ability service organizations an opportunity to pro-mote the programs and services they provide peoplewith disabilities and/or health conditions. The newformat of the show will also highlight the accomplish-ments of people with disabilities and provide informa-tion about public policy that affects people with dis-abilities and their families.

Each co-host brings his or her own expertise andpersonality to the show, which will result in many in-teresting and unique episodes. Abramson brings a per-spective on accessing health care for people with dis-abilities. As an advocate for accessible travel,Chevrette will present information about interestingplaces to visit throughout Minnesota. Cruzen will pro-vide insights for teens with disabilities. Villavicencio,a familiar presence at the state capitol, will discussadvocacy skills by sharing her experiences. Willshirewill enlighten and entertain viewers on a variety oftopics. Willkie’s ability to laugh at himself will pro-vide another interesting and comedic perspective ondisability-related issues and points.

The show will continue to feature a varied group ofguests. During the legislative session the MinnesotaConsortium for Citizens with Disabilities GrassrootsCommittee will have its representatives provide up-dates on activities at the capitol.

“Disability Viewpoints” received the HometownMedia Award in 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2003 and2002. More information about “Disability View-points” is available at www.CTV15.org. The showalso has its own Facebook page.

VSA Minnesota announces grants

Seven Minnesota artists have been awarded grantsof $1,500 each by VSA Minnesota. The 17th annualcompetitive grant, funded by the Jerome Foundation,recognizes excellence by emerging Minnesota artistswith disabilities and encourages them to completenew work. Two grant winners are writers, poetCharmaine P. Donovan, Brainerd; and creative non-fiction writer Lindagail Roy, Minneapolis. The otherwinners are visual artists. Paul J. Flick, Minneapolisworks with mixed media. Devra Goldstein, Plymouth,is a fiber artist and Saori weaver. Peter Hinze, Minne-apolis, works with watercolors and pastels. LydiaSponslier, Minnetonka, is a painter. Kinetic art is thespecialty of Bridget Riversmith, Duluth.

Mark Hughes, Sarah Thorson, Carolyon Allshouse in ainformative, fun conversation.

Photo by Jo Ann Erbes

Lynn NorenPhoto courtesy of Rise Inc.

New Rise Inc. president named

Each grant was awarded following a jurying pro-cess conducted by a panel of individuals with exten-sive backgrounds in the written, visual and perform-ing arts. They looked at samples of the artists’ work,resumes and artist statements. Forty-two applicationswere received. Members of the panels included ToddBoss, poet, North Oaks; Paulino Brener, performanceartist, playwright, teacher, Minneapolis; StanleyChristopher, visual artist and writer, St. Paul; DebCostandine, artist, writer, St. Paul; Christi Furnas, vi-sual artist, Spectrum ArtWorks support specialist,Minneapolis; Tracy Gulliver, writer, Chisago City;Lawrence Hutera, retired arts administrator, Minne-apolis; Shawnee Langworthy, stained glass artist,Northfield; Jeffrey Richman, cultural arts director, St.Paul Jewish Community Center; Mary Smith,ArtReach St. Croix literary chair, Stillwater; KurtWiger, Courage Center staff, former arts teacher, Ply-mouth and Halle O’Falvey, ACT Remembering withDignity Project, arts instructor, costumer, St. Paul.Christopher, Costandine and Gulliver are past grantrecipients.

Merrick, Inc. welcomes new trustees

Merrick, Inc., a Vadnais Heights-based nonprofitthat helps adults with disabilities through vocationaland social opportunities, introduced two new trusteesat its Dec. 12 annual meeting. Donika Pentcheva andDr. Tanmay Barman Roy join a group of 16 trusteeswho help lead the organization. Julie Manning,Ashley Wenger and Board Vice-President and long-time supporter Betsy Wuebker left the board.Wuebker is moving to Hawaii.

Pentcheva is experi-enced in all aspects of in-tellectual property portfo-lio management, includingpreparation, litigation andenforcement. She gradu-ated from the University ofSaint Thomas where shedeveloped modules andsoftware for use withMathematica®,MATLAB®, and Maple®,and also holds a law de-gree from WilliamMitchell College of Law.

A physician MBA/MHA by background, Royhas more than 12 years ofexperience as a healthcaremanagement consultantand as a practicing physi-

cian. He has been a part of the management consult-ing practice at leading global consulting firms wherehe has helped more than 40 healthcare organizationsincluding some of the leading hospitals, integratedhealth systems and health plans in the areas of busi-ness strategy, operations, clinical care delivery andnew product/service launch.

Opportunity Partners wins Wolves grant

Opportunity Partners, a Twin Cities non-profit dis-ability organization, received a $5,000 grant from theMinnesota Timberwolves FastBreak Foundation forits work in successfully transitioning students withdisabilities into life after high school graduation. Thegrant’s theme is “New Season, New Beginnings,” fo-cusing on offering Minnesota youth a new directionor opportunity.

Opportunity Partners’ Youth Transition Servicesprepares young people with disabilities to transitionout of the special education system and into adult-hood by partnering with school districts and assistingthe students in making future plans. The organizationstrives to ensure that people with disabilities have theopportunity to lead rewarding, productive lives full ofpurpose and meaning.

The grant will be used for an outdoor basketballcourt at Opportunity Partners-Koch Campus. Fundswill pay for the hoop, foundation work for the goalpost and concrete work for the court. OpportunityPartners was presented with the check at a MinnesotaTimberwolves game in November 2012. ■

PEOPLE & PLACES


ACCESSIBLE FUNWelcome to the Access Press Accessible Fun list-

ings. Readers looking for additional opportunities to en-joy the arts have these options:

For information on galleries and theater performancesaround the state, join the Access to Performing Artsemail list at [email protected] or call VSA Minnesota,612-332-3888 or statewide 800-801-3883 (voice/TTY).To hear a weekly listing of accessible performances, call612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883. On the web accessibleperformance listings are found at www.vsamn.org/calendar.html, www.mrid.org,www.accesspress.org, or http://c2net.org (c2: caption coalition, inc.), which does most of thecaptioned shows in Minnesota and across the country.

Connect with performances on Facebook. Sign up toconnect with Audio Description Across Minnesota onFacebook (www.facebook.com/pages/Audio-Description-Across-Minnesota/202035772468).

Take the Polar PlungeWhether it’s one toe at a time, eyes tightly closed withan uneasy step forward or a fearless cannonball, bravesouls are already planning their grand entrance into theicy waters at the 2013 Polar Bear Plunge, presented byMinnesota law enforcement for the benefit of SpecialOlympics Minnesota. Registration is now open for the2013 Plunge Season. With 16 Polar Bear Plunge eventsscattered across the state between Jan 26 and March16, dare-devils and do-gooders alike are sure to be“freezin’ for a reason.” Brave Plungers jump into thefrigid Minnesota waters as individuals or as a member ofa team to raise money for Special Olympics Minnesota.Although each participant must raise a minimum of $75to Plunge, the average Plunger raised more than $200 in2012. The total amount raised in 2012 was $2.85 million.FFI: 800-783-7732, plungemn.org,[email protected]

Northland 300 marks 25 yearsThis year marks the 25th anniversary of the Northland300 and its work to support Special Olympics Minnesota.Thousands have enjoyed this North Shore snowmobileride and fundraiser. Organizers are preparing for thenext big event Jan. 23-27 and have posted informationabout the event history on the event website. The eventhas raised more than $3.6 million over the years. Infor-mation on registration and pledges is also available. FFI:Kathy Karkula, 612-789-2081 or [email protected];www. northland300.org,www.specialolympicsminnesota.org

Winter WalkaboutIt’s time to register for the Winter Walkabout, a snow-shoe fundraiser for Vinland Center and its programs.2013 date is Feb. 23 and online registration is underway.Costs range from $25 to $70, depending on how many

register and when registration comes in. Enjoy the beau-tiful grounds at Vinland’s main campus in Loretta andlearn about the services provided by Vinland. Last year,150 snowshoers participated. The goal for 2013 is tohave 250 snowshoers. FFI: www.VinlandCenter.org,www.winterwalkabout.org/register.html

AnnieLeapin’ Lizards! GREAT Theatre presents Annie, thestory of the comic book heroine, at Escher Auditorium,College of Saint Benedict, 37 S. College Ave., St. Jo-seph. ASL performance is 7 p.m. Fri, Jan. 18. Ticketsare $14-22; phone: 320-363-5777, e-mail:[email protected], www.greattheatre.org

Johnny BaseballPark Square Theatre presents a story of a 1919 RedSox right-hander, the woman he loved and his idol, BabeRuth, at Park Square Theatre, 20 W. 7th Place, SaintPaul. AD performances are 2 p.m. Sun, Jan. 20 and 7:30p.m. Fri, Jan. 25, 7:30 PM. ASL performances are 7:30p.m. Sat, Feb. 2, and 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 3. Captioning is7:30 p.m. Saty, Feb. 9; 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 10. Tickets arehalf price tickets for AD/ASL/OC (regular $25-58, $48ASL area). FFI: 651-291-7005.www.parksquaretheatre.org

Long Day’s Journey into NightThe classic Eugene O’Neill play, directed by JoeDowling, will be performed by the Guthrie Theater on theWurtele Thrust Stage, 818 2nd St. S., Mpls. For the firsttime in its 50-year history, the Guthrie will present thisPulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning family drama—featuring acting dream team Helen Carey and PeterMichael Goetz. Like most American families, the Tyroneshave experienced highs and lows in life—from fame andfinancial success to illness and loss. Yet in the course ofone day in their seaside Connecticut home, their familialbond begins to unravel, and the couple and their sonsconfront their demons in a final effort to save their family.Captioning is 1 p.m. Wed, Jan. 30 and 7:30 p.m. Fri,Feb. 22. AD performances are 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2,(with sensory tour); and 7:30 p.m. Fri, Feb. 8. ASL per-formances are 7:30 p.m. Fri, Feb. 15 and Thu, Feb. 21.

Tickets are reduced to $20 for AD/ASL, $25 forCaptioning (regular $24-62). FFI: 612-377-2224, TTY612-377-6626, www.guthrietheater.org

PinocchioThe classic tale of a puppet that comes to life will be per-formed by Children’s Theatre Company on the UnitedHealth Group Stage, 2400 Third Ave. S., Mpls. AD &ASL performances are 7 p.m. Fri, Feb. 1. Ask aboutspecial price rates for ASL/AD patrons (regular $16-40).FFI: 612-874-0400; [email protected],www.childrenstheatre.org

RumorsThe Neil Simon farce Rumors is presented by Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre at the Fargo-MoorheadCommunity Theatre, 333 Fourth St. S., Fargo. AD perfor-mance at 7:30 p.m. Sat, Feb. 2: pre-show description isat 7:10 p.m. Tickets are reduced to $8 (regular $15, stu-dent/senior $10). FFI: 701-235-6778, www.fmct.org

Inherit the WindLakeshore Players Theatre presents a dramatization ofthe 1925 Scopes “Monkey” Trial at the Lakeshore Play-ers Theatre, 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake. ASLperformance is 2 p.m. Sun, Feb. 3. (If no ASL seats arereserved within two weeks of the performance, the ASL-interpretation will be cancelled.) Tickets are reduced to$10 for ASL patrons (reg. $18-20).FFI: 651-429-5674;[email protected],www.lakeshoreplayers.com/Laura.html

Ruby! The Story of Ruby BridgesSteppingstone Theatre presents a civil rights story. In1960, the front lines of the struggle for Civil Rights ranright up to the front steps of an elementary school inNew Orleans. Imagine you’re a six-year-old ready tostart first grade, and suddenly you’re in all the papers,and it seems that half the world wants to stop you fromgoing to school. The play is presented at theSteppingStone Theatre for Youth Development, 55Victoria St. N., St. Paul. AD performance is 7 p.m. Fri,Feb. 8. ASL performance is 3 p.m. Sun, Feb. 10. Ticketsare reduced to $10 access rate (regular $15; youth/se-nior 55+ $12). FFI: 651-225-9265; [email protected], www.steppingstonetheatre.org ■

Access Press welcomes your eventsAccess Press welcomes news of organization galas, fundraisers, charitywalks, art shows, theatrical productions and other special events for ourAccessible Fun pages.

Items must have a tie to the disability community and beaccessible. Deadline is the 25th of the month, withpublication on the 10th.

Call 651-644-2133 or email [email protected] with questions.


UPCOMING EVENTSAdvocacy

Tuesdays at the CapitolMinnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) resumes its traditional legislative session scheduleonce the 2013 legislative session is underway, startingJan. 8. This includes full membership meetings on Fri-days during the legislative session from 12- 1 in room500 N of the State Office Building as well as “DisabilityMatters Tuesdays at the Capitol” on Tuesdays during thelegislative session at 10 am in the basement cafeteria ofthe State Office Building. FFI: www.mnccd.org

Advocacy kickoff dayMinnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) hosts a panel of state and legislative leaders,noon-1 p.m. Fri, Jan. 18 at Kelly Inn, 161 St. AnthonyAve., St Paul. Hear about the status of health care inMinnesota, the challenges faced in health and long termcare reform, as well as solutions for the future. Informa-tion will also be available about the MN-CCD Tuesdaysat the Capitol advocacy program. Enjoy free refresh-ments. RVSP by Jan. 14 to ensure a seat, althoughwalk-ins are welcome. FFI: Christian Knights, 763-520-0725, [email protected]

RecognitionAnne Henry honoredJoin The Arc Minnesota at 5:30 p.m. Wed, Feb. 20, asMinnesotans with disabilities and their advocates honorAnne Henry for her extraordinary public policy advocacyand the major improvements she has helped attain inpolicies and programs that affect people of alldisabilities. The Arc Minnesota’s annual Public PolicyRecognition Event at the Midland Hills Country Club inRoseville. Event proceeds benefit The Arc Minnesota’spublic policy advocacy program. FFI: Dawn Lampros,651-604-8070, [email protected]

Adult classes and meetingsHelp with computer skillsAdults who are unsure about their basic computer skillsnow have a way to easily assess what they know, pin-point what they need to learn and earn a certificate thatshows employers what they know. A broad communitycollaboration of organizations, led by the St. Paul PublicLibrary and the St. Paul Community Literacy Consortium(SPCLC), announce the launch of the Northstar DigitalLiteracy Project, developed in response to the manypeople asking for help finding jobs in a tough economy.The Northstar Digital Literacy Project offers free, onlineassessments of basic computer skills in six modules:basic computer use, world wide web, Windows 7, MacOS X, using e-mail, and Microsoft Word. Spanish-lan-guage and close-captioned versions are available. At theend of each test, the user receives the results, listing theskills that have been mastered and the areas that needimprovement. Anyone can take the tests online atwww.digitalliteracyassessment.org

Independent living classes offeredThe Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL)offers free and accessible classes on living indepen-dently for people with disabilities. Most classes are heldat 1600 University Ave., #16, the green tile building atUniversity and Snelling, St. Paul, unless specified. Theoffice will be closed Mon., Jan 21 in observance of Mar-tin Luther King Jr. Day.A full calendar is offered online. Enjoy field trips, cook-ing, and classes to help with everyday living includingbudgeting, self-esteem and anger management. TurningDisability into Feistiness is 1-2:30 p.m. Tue, Jan. 15.A highlight is the New Year’s gathering 1-2:30 p.m. Wed,Jan. 16. That same day is the start of the Working Wellwith a Disability series, at 1-2:30 p.m.Walk and roll at Mall of America, Jan. 14 and 28. Meet atMCIL for the outings, which are 1:30-3:30 p.m. or cometo MCIL for cooking class 1-6 p.m. and social night onMon, Jan. 28.Learn simple techniques, patterns and designs of knit-ting. Adaptive knitting equipment available; for all levelsof knitters. Other crafts are welcome, 1-3 p.m. Wed, Jan.30. Wii fun is back 1-3 p.m. Thu, Jan. 17.Weekenders outings are for those who are tired of sittinghome all weekend. Meet other people who share similarinterests and want to meet new people. Go to LongfellowGrill, 2990 West River Parkway Mpls, 1-3 p.m. Sat, Jan.19 for lunch. Please bring spending money for events.Events are free (with the exception of Weekenders out-

ings), accessible and mostly scent-free. Please RSVPand give two weeks’ notice of needed accommodations.FFI: Corbett Laubignat, 651-603-2028, [email protected], Cindy, 651-603-2037, [email protected],

Youth and familiesAttend a KidshopThe Kidshops program is designed for school-aged chil-dren and teens (7-17) with a sibling or parent who has amental illness. Kidshops provide an opportunity for kidsto discuss feelings and share ideas. Each workshop in-cludes games, team-building activities, coping strategiesand fun. Kids receive a “tool” that offers them a way totalk about their feelings with their family. A Kidshop willbe held 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat, Jan. 26 at Northwest Youth& Family Services, 3490 Lexington Ave. N., Shoreview.Kidshops are free, but pre-registration is requested. FFI:NAMI Minnesota at 651-645-2948

Family support groups offeredThe National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Minne-sota sponsors free support groups for families who havea relative with a mental illness. Led by trained facilitatorswho also have a family member with mental illness,groups help families develop better coping skills and findstrength through sharing their experiences. A family sup-port group meets in St. Paul on the second Wednesdayof each month from at 6-7:30 p.m., at Goodwill-EasterSeals, 553 Fairview Ave. N., St. Paul, in room 123. FFI:Sonja, 651-357-2077. A group meets at 6:30 p.m., onthe 4th Tuesday of the month, at Lutheran Church of theRedeemer, 285 N. Dale St., St. Paul. FFI: Marc, 763-227-9446. A group also meets at 6:30 p.m. on the sec-ond and fourth Wednesday of each month at CentennialUnited Methodist Church, 1524 Co. Rd. C-2 West, onthe second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. FFI:Anne Mae, 651-730-8434.

Parents with disabilities groupMCIL offers a support group for parents with disabilities,Learn from and grow with others who are dealing withthe intricacies of disability and parenting responsibilities.Everyone’s experience is valuable and questions areimportant. The group meets 5-7 pm. Mon, Feb. 11 atMCIL, 1600 University Ave. W., St. Paul. Pre-registrationrequested. RSVP: Corbett, 651-603-2028,[email protected]

Fraser offers groupsFraser provides classes for families dealing with morethan 60 types of disabilities and disorders. Autism Spec-trum Disorders 101 is 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. Tue, Jan. 15 atFraser, 6344 Penn Ave. S. Richfield, This workshop pro-vides an overview of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)for families and professionals to gain a better under-standing of the characteristics of ASD, the diagnosticprocess, related terminology, and a brief overview of fun-damental strategies and supports. Cost is $30 per indi-vidual, $50 per couple. Supporting Siblings of a Childwith Special Needs is 7-8:30 p.m. Tue, Jan. 29 atFraser, 1801 American Blvd E, Suite 1, Bloomington. Asa parent, it can be difficult to support all children whilealso meeting the needs of a child with special needs.Cost is $30 per individual, $50 per couple. FFI: 612-798-8331 or email [email protected], or registeronline at http://www.fraser.org/Resources/Workshops.

Information and supportLearn about cathetersHandi-Medical and Coloplast host a free end user inter-mittent catheter event. Come and learn about new prod-ucts, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thu, Jan. 17 and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sat,Jan. 19 at Handi-Medical, 2505 University Av., St. Paul.Refreshments served. FFI: 651-644-9770

UCare 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 serves Medicare-eligible individuals andfamilies enrolled in income-based Minnesota HealthCare Programs, such as Minnesota Care and PrepaidMedical Assistance Program; adults with disabilities andMedicare beneficiaries with chronic health conditionsand Minnesotans dually eligible for Medical Assistanceand Medicare FFI: 1-877-523-1518 (toll free),www.ucare.org

Mental Illness support groupsNAMI-MN free support groups for families who have arelative with a mental illness. NAMI has about two dozenfamily support groups, over 20 support groups for peopleliving with a mental illness, anxiety support groups,groups for veterans and other groups. Led by trained

facilitators, the various groups provide help and support.FFI: 651-645-2948Partners and Spouses support group meets 6:45 p.m.the first Tue of each month at Falcon Heights UnitedChurch of Christ, 1795 Holton St. FFI: Lois, 651-788-1920, or Donna, 651-645-2948 ext. 101. Open DoorAnxiety and Panic support, meets at 6:30 p.m. the firstand third Thu at Woodland Hills Church, 1740 Van DykeSt., St. Paul and 6:30-6 p.m. on the second and fourthThu at Goodwill-Easter Seals, 553 Fairview Ave. N., St.Paul. FFI: 651-645-2948.NAMI Connection peer support group for adults are ledby trained facilitators who are also in recovery leadNAMI Connection groups. One group meets at 6:30 p.m.on the fourth Tue, at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer,285 Dale St. N., St. Paul. FFI: Shelley, 651-228-1645.Bi-weekly adult recovery groups meet at 6:30 p.m. thesecond and fourth Wed at Centennial United MethodistChurch, 1524 Co. Rd. C-2 West, Roseville. FFI: Will,651-578-3364.

Chronic pain support groupMCIL offers a peer support group for people who livewith chronic pain. The group meets at 6:30 p.m. the firstand third Thursday at MCIL, 1600 University Ave. #16,St. Paul. Group members will discuss what chronic painis and how it affects people. FFI: Cindy Langr, 651-603-2037, [email protected]

GLBT group meetsMetropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) offersa GLBT support/social group that meets 6-7:30 p.m. thefirst Tuesday of each month at 1600 University Ave. W.#16, St. Paul to discuss topics related to being a part ofthe GLBT community and dealing with a disability. Din-ner is provided. Next meeting is Jan. 8. RSVP at least 2-3 days in advance, as group cancels if fewer than threepeople sign up. FFI Corbett Laubignat, 651"603"2028,[email protected]

Volunteer, DonateHelp with arts calendarVSA Minnesota is seeking a volunteer or volunteers toassist with the compilation of the monthly VSA Minne-sota arts calendar. The calendar lists accessible perfor-mances, films, galleries and events throughout the re-gion. FFI: Jon, 612-332-3888 or 800-801-3883, Voice/TTY, [email protected]

Open the Door to EducationHelp adults reach their educational goals and earn theirGED. Tutor, teach or assist in a classroom with the Min-nesota Literacy Council. Give just 2-3 hours a week andhelp people expand their opportunities and change theirlives through education. The literacy council providestraining and support. Accommodations for volunteerswith disabilities. FFI: Allison, 651-251-9110,[email protected], www.mnliteracy.org/volun-teers/opportunities/adults.

Volunteer with RSVPVolunteers age 55 and older are eligible to receive freesupplemental insurance, mileage reimbursement andother benefits through the Retired and Senior VolunteerProgram (RSVP) sponsored by Volunteers of America ofMinnesota. RSVP/Volunteers of America of Minnesotaand AARP Foundation need volunteers with good bud-geting and organizational skills to help manage financesof older or disabled low-income individuals. Have a fewhours a month to volunteer? Money Management Pro-gram staff will train and match you with someone in thecommunity. FFI: 612-617-7821 ■

care items, the women provided candy, fruit, cakes,jellies and other food items. Birthday cakes weremade for each veteran. At Christmas the womenbrought trees and decorations, as well as flowers, fruitbaskets and baked treats.

Donations also helped start work programs, so thatveterans could make and sell items. The MinneapolisFire Department made 32 looms, so that the mencould weave and sell items. The men made baskets,lampshades and other items so that they could havespending money. Although government programs took over some ofthe Auxiliary’s work, providing gifts and friendly vis-its to veterans is an activity many Auxiliary chapterscontinue today. ■ The History Note is a monthly column sponsored bythe Minnesota Gover-nor’s Council on Developmen-tal Disabilities, www. mncdd.org and www.partnersinpolicymaking.com

History - from p. 2


AugustVoters prepared for the upcoming primary and gen-

eral elections. Absentee voting was suggested as analternative to long lines and crowded polling places.The change of the primary from September to Augustbrought additional concerns about less-than-ideal airquality in some polling places,due to hot weather and a lack ofair conditioning.

Beep baseball or beepballathletes from two Minnesotateams competed in the sport’sWorld Series in Iowa. TheMillers are the competitiveteam while the Fighting Lionsoffer a more relaxed game.

SeptemberCharles “Chuck” Van

Heuveln was honored by Ac-cess Press as the 2012 winnerof the Charlie Smith Award.The longtime disability rights advocate, whose workdates back to the 1970s, was a leader in efforts tomake changes to the Medical Assistance- (MA-EPD)Program. MA-EPD allows people with disabilities topay a percentage of their earnings as an insurance pre-mium toward medical services. Van Heuveln and oth-

ers would have been forced to give up assets, includ-ing their homes, had changes not been made to thelaw.

A horse named Taco delivered food and smiles ashe and his owner delivered Meals on Wheels in TwinValley.

Courage Center’snew Todd Ander-son Field in Brook-lyn Park was un-veiled asMinnesota’s firstfield for competi-tive wheelchairsoftball.

October

GilletteChildren’s Spe-cialty Healthcareand the United Ce-rebral Palsy (UCP)national organiza-tion announced anew partnership.Gillette would be-come the newestUCP affiliate andthe first hospital tojoin in UCP’s 64-year history.

Accessible ridesto the polls were promoted as the Nov. 6 general elec-tion neared. The ride program began in 2008 and waspopular with voters with disabilities.

Minnesotans were proud to be among the competi-tors at the Paralympics in London. Ten Minnesotanscompeted in more than half a dozen sports, including

swimming, track and field, and basketball. Sevenmedals were brought home by competitors. Goldmedalists were won by two swimmers, Eagan residentMallory Meggemann and Justin Zook of Plymouth.

NovemberDale Street Place, which provides affordable and

supportive housing for people with mental illness orchemical dependency, opened its doors in St. Paul.Community Housing Development Corporation pur-chased and renovated the property and BDC Manage-ment was in charge of operations. The building has150 units.

The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Dis-abilities (MN-CCD) announced its 2013 legislativepriorities. One focus would be the permanent repealof the 20 percent cut to family members who provide

PCA services. Staving off additional health carecuts is another priority. Task forces spent monthsstudying various issues and members.

St. Paul-based Handi-Medical was honoredby the publication Home Medical EquipmentNews as the equipment provider of the year.

DecemberThe Affordable Care Act requires all people

to have health insurance. Minnesotans with dis-abilities need to be informed, concerning the up-coming health insurance exchange (method forpurchasing insurance) and how it will affectthem. A task force was working on details of theexchange. When the exchange goes into place, itcould serve an anticipated 1.2 million Minneso-tans. In 2011, state officials estimate that morethan 490,000 Minnesotans lacked any health in-surance and this will be a key target group forthe exchange.

A committee working on the state’s long-awaitedOlmstead Plan was seeking public comment on its in-terim report. The plan outlines how the state shouldprovide services for people with disabilities.

The Northland 300 snowmobile run announced its25th anniversary. ■

2012 in review - from p. 5

Radio Talking Book

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

Books available through FaribaultBooks broadcast on the Minnesota Radio Talking

Book Network are available through the MinnesotaBraille and Talking Book Library in Faribault. Phone is 1-800-722-0550 and hours are 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mondaythrough Friday. The catalog is online and can be ac-cessed by going to the main website, http://education.state.mn.us, and then clicking on the link. Per-sons living outside of Minnesota may obtain copies ofbooks by contacting their home state’s Network Libraryfor the National Library Service.

Listen to the Minnesota Radio Talking Book, eitherlive or archived programs from the last week, on theInternet at www.mnssb.org/rtb. Call the staff for yourpassword to the site. See more information about eventson the Facebook site for the Minnesota Radio TalkingBook Network. Facebook is a fee social networking website. Register at www.facebook.com

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

Weekend Program BooksYour Personal World (Saturday at 1 p.m.) is airing The15 Invaluable Laws of Growth, by John C. Maxwell; Forthe Younger Set (Sunday at 11 a.m.) is airing TheDragon’s Tooth, by N.D. Wilson; Poetic Reflections(Sunday at noon) is airing The June Fourth Elegies, byXiabo Liu; The U.S. and Us (Sunday at 4 p.m.) is airingMy Mother Is Now Earth, by Mark Anthony Rolo.

Chautauqua • Tuesday – Saturday 4 a.m.The Violinist’s Thumb, Nonfiction by Sam Kean, 2012.As advances are made in DNA mapping and modifica-tion, genetics will continue to be the hottest topic in sci-ence, shaping the very makeup of our bodies and theworld around us. L - Read by Esmé Evans. 13 broad-casts. Begins Jan. 22.

Past is Prologue • Monday – Friday 9 a.m.To Free a Family, Nonfiction by Sydney Nathans, 2012.In 1848, Mary Walker escaped from her slave ownersand sought refuge in the North. She spent the next 17years trying to recover her family. Read by Karen Wertz.11 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 21.

The Writer’s Voice • Monday – Friday 2 p.m.Best Seat in the House, Nonfiction by Mark Rosen withJim Bruton, 2012. In more than four decades at WCCO,Rosen has become one of the most popular and re-spected sports media celebrities in the Cities, the state,and region. He has covered many of the most memo-rable moments in Minnesota sports history. Read byDenny Laufenberger. 10 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 21.

Choice Reading • Monday – Friday 4 p.m.Perlmann’s Silence, Fiction by Pascal Mercier, 2012.Phillip Perlmann is an internationally known linguist whohas decided the solution to his lack of creativity is to pla-giarize the work of a missing colleague. But when thecolleague is going to show after all, Perlmann is drivento the brink of murder. Read by Don Lee. 25 broadcasts.Begins Jan. 14.

PM Report • Monday – Friday 8 p.m.No Easy Day, Nonfiction by Mark Owen, with KevinMaurer, 2012. Written under a pseudonym, No Easy Daytakes us to the third floor of Osama bin Laden’s com-pound along with the twenty-four-man team of NavySEALs who took bin Laden’s life. L - Read by Art Nyhus.Eight broadcasts. Begins Jan. 14.The Syrian Rebellion, Nonfiction by Fouad Ajami, 2012.When the Arab Spring exploded across the Middle East,it was no surprise that the eruption in Syria came afterothers. The Syrians took their time, knowing they were infor a grim and bloody struggle. Read by MarylynBurridge. Nine broadcasts. Begins Jan. 24.

Night Journey • Monday – Friday 9 p.m.The Beautiful Mystery, Fiction by Louise Penny, 2012.When the Québec monastery’s choir director is mur-dered, Chief Inspector Gamache and Inspector Jean-Guy Beauvoir discover disquiet beneath the silence and

discord in the harmony. L - Read by Pat Kovel-Jarboe.16 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 28.

Potpourri • Monday – Friday 11 p.m.The Tree of the Doves, Nonfiction by Christopher Merrill,2012. In three extended essays, Christopher Merrillposes fundamental but provocative questions. Read byJim Gregorich. 11 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 30.

Good Night Owl • Monday – Friday midnightThe Solitary House, Fiction by Lynn Shepherd, 2012.Charles Maddox makes a living tracking down criminalsbut his latest case has escalated into something moremajor than he had expected. V, S - Read by EileenBarratt. 12 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 28.

After Midnight • Tuesday – Saturday 1 a.m.Ashfall, Fiction by Mike Mullin, 2011. When the super-volcano under Yellowstone erupts, the world changesand Alex struggles to survive. V - Read by PeterDanbury. 11 broadcasts. Begins Jan. 22.

January sampling

Punnett announced last month that he would beleaving the airwaves. On its website, myTalk 107.1announced that Ian’s wife, Margery Punnett will re-main on-air and a new station lineup will be an-nounced soon. The radio website stated that, “Ian hasbeen a critical part of this radio station since the verybeginning. The Ian and Margery Show has been a partof who we are for more than ten years. His humor,professionalism and kindness have helped this stationgrow, develop and thrive. He has been a confidante,jokester and the number one cheerleader for this radiostation and for the format. Way beyond being our co-worker... he is our dear friend and mentor.” ■

(Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press, myTalk 107.1)

Regional news - from p. 6

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PCA 20% - from p. 1

Merger - from p. 1

als who sued the state in October 2011. The pay cutwas made during the Minnesota Legislature’s July2011 special session, as a means of helping resolve a$5 billion state budget deficit. What frustrated fami-lies and disability rights advocates was that the cutwas made with no public hearings or discussion.

The Court of Appeals decision reverses an April2012 Ramsey County District Court ruling that theMinnesota Department of Human Services could payrelative caregivers just 80 percent of whatnonrelatives receive. The Court of Appeals said thatlaw imposing the cut is based on an arbitrary distinc-tion between family member personal care attendants(PCAs) and non-family members.

The cut means some family member PCAs hadtheir hourly wage drop from $10 to $8 or less an hour.The cut affected parents or adoptive parents of anadult child, siblings over age 16, an adult child, agrandparent, or a grandchild of the person receivingcare.

Dozens of disability advocacy organizations op-posed the 20% cut. Minnesota Consortium for Citi-zens with Disabilities (MN-CCD) pointed out that thecut not only jeopardized support services for manyMinnesotans. The cut also devalued the sacrificesPCAs have made, and puts some Minnesotans withdisabilities at risk of placements in more costly insti-

tutions, particularly in rural areas. The long-term ef-fect could have been the closure of some PCA agen-cies, as the cut could have meant a loss of PCAs andrelated administrative revenues. If agencies did close,that in turn would create more problems in accessingservices and ultimately result in more costly options,such as home and community-based waivers or nurs-ing facilities.

In October 2011 home health care agencies CarePlanners, Inc., Break-Thru Home Health Care, Inc.,Healthstar Home Health, Inc., V-Care Home Health,Inc., United Home Health Care, Inc., Hmong HomeHealth Care, Inc., AbbeyCare, Inc., and Life FountainHome Health Care, Inc., as well as several individu-als, sued the state.

Ramsey County District Court Judge Dale Lindmangranted a temporary restraining order against the cutthat same month. But in March 2012 Lindman ruledthat the cut would stand, and any changes would haveto be made by state lawmakers.

The dispute was then appealed. In its 15-page rul-ing, the appeals court stated, “We agree with appel-lants that the rationale for the distinction advanced bythe state is based purely on assumptions rather thanfacts. including the apparently unchallenged assump-tion that a moral obligation to provide care for a rela-tive necessarily equates to a moral obligation to per-sonally provide such care at a lower rate of pay. Addi-

tionally, the state has not provided any evidence aboutthe effect on relative PCAs of a 20 percent reductionin income,” the court ruled. “Appellants providedsome affidavits to the district court stating that such areduction would result in relative PCAs themselvesseeking public assistance.”

The cut was expected to save the state $24.1 mil-lion over the biennium. That amount has been re-duced to about $17 million due to the delay in imple-menting the cut. The most recent figures from DHSestimated that during the two-year period beginningJuly 1, 2013, $30.7 million less would be paid to rela-tive caregivers due to the reductions.

Home care workers applauded decision by the Min-nesota Court of Appeals ruling.

“I am thrilled and relieved at the court’s ruling, butit is only the first step,” said Darleen Henry, a homecare worker from Rosemount who cares for hermother. “We need to make these jobs better so thatpeople can afford to do this work for our elderly andpeople with disabilities, and that is why we want thesame right as all other workers to form a union.”

“Working as a personal care assistant for my son,who has a severe form of multiple sclerosis, allows himto stay at home and saves taxpayers a lot of money,”said Clara Nakumbe, who lives in Minneapolis. “But Istill have a mortgage and I still need to live, too, andthat’s why I was so upset when legislators planned tocut family members’ pay—it threatened my ability tokeep a house for me and my son.” ■

broad range of permanent or episodic disabilities, andreducing the per capita costs of health care for peoplewith disabilities.

“The integration of these two leading programs of-fers individuals living with disabilities the benefits ofa coordinated model of care that combines great clini-cal care with supportive social services and broaderhealth and wellness programming,” said Wheeler.

Golden Valley-based Courage Center was foundedin 1928 as an advocacy group for what then wasknown as the Society for Crippled Children. It is anon-profit rehabilitation and resource center that ad-vances the lives of children and adults experiencingbarriers to health and independence. It specializes intreating brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke,chronic pain, autism and disabilities experiencedsince birth. Courage Center offers advanced technolo-gies and innovation provided in part through the ef-forts of thousands of volunteers and donors.

What is now Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institutewas founded in 1942 by a British nurse, Sister Eliza-beth Kenny. It specializes in treating people with spi-

nal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, cancer, sports-related injuries and neurological or muscular disor-ders. Sister Kenny Institute became part of AbbottNorthwestern Hospital in 1975 and is now part ofAllina Health. Sister Kenny offers medical rehabilita-tion services at nine hospitals.

Collaboration between Courage Center and SisterKenny is nothing new. About 15 years ago the twostarted the managed care nonprofit Axis Healthcare.

Leaders of the two organizations believe that themerged organization will draw on the strengths ofeach. Sister Kenny is well-known for its medical ex-pertise. Courage Center has a longstanding reputationfor strong community programs and outreach. Inmany cases the two institutions serve the samepeople, with Sister Kenny providing care and therapyright after an injury and Courage Center providingcontinued rehabilitation, training and a host of otherservices.

Each currently has its own foundation; those willbe merged as well. ■

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january 2013

Documents

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thoseof sister kenny