The BillBoard

Posted by mjohnson at 10:37 AM

NEED TEMPORARY HOUSING IN BERKELEY, CA

Two graduate students, a disabled lesbian couple, are seeking reasonably affordable housing with at least basic wheelchair access, to rent for about 10 months (mid-August 2006 through May 2007). We need a one- or two- or three-bedroom place, close to the UC Berkeley campus and/or BART, big enough to accommodate ourselves and one or two attendants. We're both mature, responsible, and solvent. We would also be open to swapping our three-bedroom Denver house for a suitable place in Berkeley. Please feel free to contact us with any leads or suggestions: Email laura@cripcommentary.com

Posted by Laura Hershey

Posted by mjohnson at 07:44 AM

April 24, 2006

SFSU to award honorary degrees to Pegi Young, Neil Young and James Brosnahan

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Matt Itelson
(415) 338-1743; (415) 338-1665; matti@sfsu.edu

SFSU to award honorary degrees to Pegi Young, Neil Young
and James Brosnahan
Co-founder of The Bridge School, musician-singer-songwriter, and trial lawyer
to be honored at University’s May 27 Commencement

SAN FRANCISCO, April 24, 2006 -­- Pegi Young, co-founder of The Bridge School for young people with disabilities; her husband, musician-singer-songwriter Neil Young, a board member and supporter of The Bridge School; and trial lawyer James Brosnahan, a senior partner at San Francisco-based Morrison and Foerster, will receive honorary degrees during San Francisco State University’s Commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 27. Pegi and Neil Young will each receive an honorary doctor of humane letters degree from SFSU and the California State University system. James Brosnahan will receive an honorary doctor of law degree from the CSU.

Twenty years ago, Pegi Young co-founded The Bridge School in Hillsborough, Calif., for children with severe speech and physical impairments. The school uses state-of-the-art assistive communication technology to ensure that these young people have access to a quality education that encompasses a broad base of knowledge and experiences. Pegi knew well the need for such a program. She and her husband, Neil Young, have a son, Ben, who was born with cerebral palsy. It was Pegi’s frustration with existing educational programs that led her to envision a school that uses computer technology and a dedicated staff to give children with disabilities the opportunity to share knowledge, express feelings and be heard. Pegi served as an unpaid director of the school for six years and remains active as the president of the board of directors. Through her dedication, the school has become an internationally recognized model that not only teaches students in Hillsborough, but conducts cutting-edge research shared with professionals across the nation.

“Pegi Young has truly built a bridge between the disabled child and the world,” said San Francisco State University President Robert A. Corrigan. “Her work is a powerful reminder that with passion and dedication we can improve the lives of young people near and far by ensuring that all have access to education. The mission and principles on which The Bridge School was founded mirror the values and beliefs of San Francisco State: Everyone deserves the opportunity to reach his or her maximum potential.”

While Pegi has concentrated on the school itself, building a strong interdisciplinary team and expanding outreach and research programs, her husband, the legendary musician-singer-songwriter Neil Young, has applied his talent and celebrity for the good of The Bridge School. Neil is a board member and the driving force behind the school’s annual fundraising concert. His devotion to his son Ben has inspired his strong support over the years. Neil told Time magazine, “Eventually Pegi and I came to the conclusion that we had been chosen, and this is one of the things we’re doing with our life, turning this situation into something positive for all kinds of kids.”

Neil has not only performed at the benefit concerts but helped bring to the same stage dozens of musicians including Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan and Dave Matthews. The concerts raise more than half of The Bridge School’s yearly budget. Neil is also a co-founder of Farm-Aid, a concert series that has provided much needed support to family farms, and has served on its board of directors since 1985. Neil Young enjoys one of rock music’s most enduring and productive careers and is a member of both the American and Canadian Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Grammy-nominated musician’s latest recording is the forthcoming “Living With War.” He was the subject of the recently released documentary, “Neil Young: Heart of Gold.”

“Countless fans have been moved and inspired by Neil Young’s extraordinary musical talents but it is the voice he has given to those who once had none that stands among his greatest gifts,” President Corrigan said. “The passion and dedication he brings to the stage is mirrored by his positive contributions to the lives of children, parents and teachers so that they may continue to push back the limitations of physical disabilities. Neil Young serves as an inspiration and reminder for the class of 2006 to use their talents to reach out and help their fellow community members.”

The Youngs attended last year’s Commencement exercises at San Francisco State to applaud the success of Thanh Diep, the first Bridge School alum to receive a college degree. Diep has shared what The Bridge School has taught her: “great self-confidence and self-esteem.” Had she remained in public school, Diep added that she “would not have had an opportunity to learn to read, write, and achieve academically at a communicative level with my peers.”

James Brosnahan is the recipient of an honorary doctor of law degree from the CSU. A senior partner at San Francisco-based Morrison and Foerster, he is one of the nation’s most respected and recognized trial lawyers, with expertise in both civil and criminal trial work. Although Brosnahan has represented the largest and most powerful organizations in the nation, he has also devoted himself to serving the poorest and least fortunate Americans. In 1977, as president of the Bar Association of San Francisco, Brosnahan established the Volunteer Legal Services Program, which provides free legal aid for traditionally underserved members of the San Francisco Bay Area community. In 2004 the program provided more than $10 million worth of pro bono legal assistance.

“James Brosnahan embodies the values of community engagement that we hope to strengthen in our students,” President Corrigan said. “As exemplified by his long and distinguished legal career, he has been committed to social justice and equity. His mission in life resonates deeply with our own commitment to both civil and human rights.”

Known to carry a copy of the U.S. Constitution in his pocket, Brosnahan is guided by a firm belief that all are entitled to legal counsel and has taken on some of the nation’s most controversial cases. In 1992 he served as an associate member of the Office of Independent Counsel which prosecuted Caspar Weinberger in the Iran-Contra case. Recently Brosnahan stepped forward to represent John Walker Lindh, the young American charged with fighting with the Taliban in Afghanistan. Brosnahan has served as special counsel to the California Legislature's Joint Subcommittee on Crude Oil Pricing, the lawyers' representative to the Ninth Circuit Judicial Conference and Chairman of the Delegation. He also is Master Advocate on the faculty and is a member of the Board of Trustees of the National Institute for Trial Advocacy. Brosnahan is the author of "Trial Handbook for California Lawyers” (Bancroft-Whitney).

He is a member of the State Bar of California’s Trial Lawyers Hall of Fame (1996) and the recipient of the Samuel E. Gates Award from the American College of Trial Lawyers (2000). His many awards and accolades include Trial Lawyer of the Year from the American Board of Trial Advocates (2001). As for his latest honor, from the CSU, Brosnahan said, “Coming from such a tremendous school that has contributed so much over the years, this is a great honor that I very much appreciate.”

Each campus in the CSU system nominates honorary degree recipients to recognize those individuals with meritorious and outstanding service to the CSU, the campuses, the state of California, the United States or to humanity at large. The recipients are also individuals whose lives and achievements should serve as examples for CSU’s diverse student body. The CSU and each individual campus bestow the degrees during commencement ceremonies.

The Youngs and Brosnahan join a distinguished group of people to receive an honorary degree from SFSU and the CSU, including South Africa President Nelson Mandela, philanthropist Richard N. Goldman, actor Danny Glover, artist and teacher Ruth Asawa, Habitat for Humanity founder Millard Fuller, former First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton and former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown.

SFSU is the only master’s-level public university serving the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo and Marin. The University enrolls about 29,000 students each year and graduates about 7,000 annually. With nationally acclaimed programs in a range of fields -- from creative writing, cinema and biology to history, broadcast and electronic communication arts, theatre arts and ethnic studies -- the University’s more than 150,000 graduates have contributed to the economic, cultural and civic fabric of San Francisco and beyond.
Posted by Matt Itelson

Posted by mjohnson at 05:13 PM

April 21, 2006

Calling female disabled writers!

I invite you to contribute to a book that will examine the way physical disability is shown and used in children's fiction. The books will be those written specifically for, and read by, girls in the twentieth century. It is hoped that most, or all, of the contributors will be disabled women, thus giving a unique slant to the publication that will be applying the social model of disability to the subject. This will bring individual perspectives to the book and will highlight the contributor's opinions about the portrayals of disability or illness in children's fiction from the last century.

The book, as yet unnamed, is to be divided into three sections: Role Models, Inclusion/Separation and Good vs. Evil with a date range of Early (1900-36), Middle (1936-1970) and Modern (1970-2001) within each section.

Contact me via the website if you want more information.

Posted by Helen Aveling

Posted by mjohnson at 01:51 PM

April 20, 2006

Disability Pride Parade Registration and Sponsorship Now Available

www.disabilityprideparade.com

On Saturday, July 22, 2006, join an expected crowd of at least five thousand people with disabilities and our allies as we celebrate in the third annual Disability Pride Parade. The theme for the 2006 Disability Pride Parade is DISABLED AND PROUD 2006: Celebrating Disability Arts and Culture. This year, the Parade will have a highly visible, prominent route through Chicago's Loop ending in Daley Plaza with a post-parade celebration.

The grand marshall for the Parade will be actor and activist Robert David Hall -- known to many people as coroner Dr. Al Robbins on the award-winning television show CSI. "I'm thrilled to be returning to Chicago and extremely honored to be this year's Disability Pride Parade Grand Marshall," Hall told Parade organizers. "As one of a handful of actors with a visible disability who work in television, I know how difficult it can be for a person with a disability to make a living in the arts. Indeed, there are huge gaps across the board between able-bodied and disabled citizens in employment, education, and general opportunity. These disparities bring us together as people with disabilities -- we're proud of who we are, our talents, and what we contribute. We're fighting for full inclusion in every area and level of American life: this Parade is another piece of that puzzle."

Since its inception in 2004, the internationally recognized Disability Pride Parade has actively engaged in its mission of changing the way people think about and define disability; breaking down and ending the internalized shame among people with disabilities; and promoting the belief in society that disability is a natural and beautiful part of human diversity in which people living with disabilities take pride. The Disability Pride Parade celebrates and strengthens the pride, power, and unity of people with disabilities.

Sponsorship opportunities and registration for Parade contingents are now available online at www.disabilityprideparade.com
Organizations sponsoring the Parade will receive mention in official Parade materials as well as have the option to table at the post-parade celebration. While Parade registration is free, Parade contingent places are limited and do fill up quickly.

Help build pride, power and unity among people with disabilities!
Sponsor the Parade
Register your Parade contingent
www.disabilityprideparade.com

Disability Pride Parade Planning Committee, c/o Access Living
614 W. Roosevelt Rd.
Chicago, IL 60607
Phone: 312-253-7000, ext. 195 (voice); 312-253-7002 (tty)
Fax: 312-253-7001

Posted by W. A. Thomasson

Posted by mjohnson at 06:17 PM

PAI-CA Seeks Communications Director

Protection and Advocacy, Inc., the largest statewide disability organization in California, seeks a communications director to be based either in northern or southern California. Looking for someone who can write well, knows the media and understands disability issues. The person will have lead responsibility for promoting positive images of disability rights and PAI in the media and with the public, and oversee the PAI website. See job posting at http://www.pai-ca.org/Jobs/Index.htm. Application deadline is May 15.

Posted by mjohnson at 05:55 PM

April 19, 2006

Robert David Hall to be Grand Marshal of 2006 Disability Pride Parade

Contact: Bill Thomasson billthomasson@comcast.net
708-383-1363

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHICAGO, April 6, 2006 – The planning committee for the 2006 Disability Pride Parade is pleased to announce that the Parade’s Grand Marshal will be disability activist and actor Robert David Hall, featured as coroner Dr. Al Robbins on the award-winning television show CSI. The parade, officially designated “DISABLED AND PROUD 2006: Celebrating Disability Arts and Culture,” will take place on July 22, the Saturday preceding the anniversary of adoption of the Americans with Disabilities Act. For the first time in its three-year history, the parade will follow a route through Chicago’s Loop to end at Daley Plaza.

Hall is one of the most prominent disabled actors working today. In addition to his role in CSI, Hall was featured as a burn survivor in “Class Action,” a role that closely paralleled his real-life experience. In 1978, an 18-wheel truck struck Hall’s car and caused the gas tank to explode. Hall was burned over 65% of his body and his legs were amputated. Today, as seen on CSI, he walks comfortably on prosthetic legs.

Hall is not only a recognized actor but also a committed disability rights activist. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the National Organization on Disability and is National Chairman of the Performers with Disabilities Caucus for the Screen Actors Guild, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, and EQUITY. He is also on the boards of the Mark Taper Forum’s “Other Voices” Project and the Media Access Office.

In 1998 Robert David Hall won the Harold Russell Award from the Media Access Office, presented to the actor who best serves as a role model for other actors with disabilities. In addition to being a frequent speaker for such organizations as the Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities, The Amputee Coalition of America, and the World Burn Congress, he visits recent amputees as a member of the Mutual Amputee Foundation.

“I'm thrilled to be returning to Chicago and extremely honored to be this year's Disability Pride Parade Grand Marshall,” Hall says. “As one of a handful of actors with a visible disability who work in television, I know how difficult it can be for a person with a disability to make a living in the arts. Indeed, there are huge gaps across the board between able-bodied and disabled citizens in employment, education, and general opportunity. These disparities bring us together as people with disabilities -- we're proud of who we are, our talents, and what we contribute. We're fighting for full inclusion in every area and level of American life: This Parade is another piece of that puzzle.”

“I'm going to have a good time on July 22nd with my friend, playwright Mike Ervin, and everyone who joins in the festivities,” he adds.

The mission of the Disability Pride Parade is: “to change the way people think about and define ‘disability;’ to break down and end the internalized shame among people with disabilities; and to promote the belief in society that disability is a natural and beautiful part of human diversity in which people living with disabilities can take pride.” The parade is an annual event that celebrates and strengthens the pride, power, and unity of people with disabilities, their families, and allies, and serves to generate national visibility for the disability community.

“I can think of no one better to lead the Disability Pride Parade this year,” says Parade Planning Committee Co-Chair Janice Stashwick. “Mr. Hall embodies the spirit of living with pride and dignity as a person—and an artist—with a disability.”

The first Disability Pride Parade was held in 2004, using as seed money the 2002 Paul G. Hearne/AAPD Leadership Award honorarium presented to Sarah Triano, an upcoming leader in the disability rights movement. The planning committee for that first parade expected 500-600 participants; more than 1500 ultimately participated. For 2006, the planning committee expects between 4000 and 5000 participants, with many coming from other states and even foreign countries.

Check out the parade’s website, www.disabilityprideparade.com, for more information, including sponsorship opportunities and online registration, which begins April 15.
# # #

Note to editors: A photo of Hall is available on request.

Posted by mjohnson at 06:27 PM

In New York they remember the children of firemen.

In New York they remember the children of firemen. Sadly, they forgot children of police and ememergency medical technicians. Guess we are not as important as firemen?

A02687 Summary:
BILL NO A02687A

SAME AS No same as

SPONSOR Morelle

COSPNSR

MLTSPNSR Koon, Perry

Add S669-d, Ed L

Provides tuition awards to children of professional or volunteer firefighters
with permanent and total disabilities, to be applied to any college or
university in the state university system or the city university of New York;
provides that the award is for tuition, less other aid, and is limited to 4 or
5 academic years.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A02687 Actions:
BILL NO A02687A

01/28/2005 referred to higher education
04/18/2005 amend and recommit to higher education
04/18/2005 print number 2687a
01/04/2006 referred to higher education

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A02687 Votes:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A02687 Memo:
BILL NUMBER: A2687A

TITLE OF BILL : An act to amend the education law, in relation to
providing tuition awards to children of firefighters with permanent
and total disabilities

PURPOSE : This legislation would provide tuition awards to children
of firefighters with permanent and total disabilities.

SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS : The education law is amended by adding a new
section 668-f which provides tuition awards for children of
firefighters with permanent and total disabilities. Eligibility: Child
whose parent is a firefighter who is eligible for permanent and total
disability benefits, as defined in section eight of the volunteer
firefighters benefit law, shall be eligible for a tuition award to be
made available by the president of the higher education services
corporation. Amount shall be equal to the cost of undergraduate
tuition, offset by any other financial assistance or award received.
Duration should not exceed more than eight semesters, equivalent to
four years of academic study, or ten semesters if the undergraduate
program requires five years of academic study.

JUSTIFICATION : Few occupational efforts are as selfless and more
important than being a fireman and/or a volunteer firefighter. The
individuals who serve in these capacities ensure not only our public
safety but also preserve our quality of life.

The work of these individuals is dangerous. Every time they go to
work, they place their very lives in peril. The hazards they face are
real and substantial, and their bravery, training and commitment are
the principal factors of their survival and success.

Our state must recognize the importance of the service of our
uniformed public servants. We must recognize their service and stand
prepared to assist their spouses and children when, in the course of
the performance of their service to the community, they are injured
and become permanently and totally disabled.

This bill would recognize and reward the service of our state`s
firemen and volunteer firefighters by providing tuition awards to
children of firefighters with permanent and total disabilities.

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY : A.9672/S.5999-A of 2004.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS : To be determined.

EFFECTIVE DATE : This act shall take effect on the first of July
next succeeding the date on which it shall have become law.

Posted by Al Odze

Posted by mjohnson at 10:09 AM

April 18, 2006

ABILITIES EXPO/NEW YORK METRO OPENS THIS FRIDAY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
For Further Information, Contact:
Amy Riemer
Media Relations for Abilities Expo
978-475-4441
amy@riemercommunications.com

ABILITIES EXPO/NEW YORK METRO OPENS THIS FRIDAY
WITH SEVERAL EXCITING SPECIAL EVENTS

NEW YORK, NY, April 18, 2006 -- Abilities Expo/New York Metro will offer several new and exciting special events when it opens to the public this weekend. Abilities Expo is the one show dedicated to educating and improving the lives of people with disabilities, senior citizens, their families & caregivers, as well as healthcare and education professionals. The three-day event will take place at the New Jersey Convention and Expo Center in Edison, NJ from this Friday, April 21 continuing through Sunday, April 23, 2006.

“With hundreds of companies showcasing the latest products and services; dozens of free educational sessions; and special events from Quad Rugby to Wheelchair Basketball and performances by Rap Artists, we have it all,” said Veronica Gonnello, Show Manager for Abilities Expo. “We encourage people of all ages with a disability, their families and caregivers from anywhere throughout the tri-state area to visit Abilities Expo this weekend.” Special events will include:

· Quad Rugby, sponsored by United Spinal Association. The United Spinal Jets, featuring Keith Cavill of Murderball, will have full games and give-a-ways at Abilities Expo. Attendees will have a chance to meet Keith Cavill and see him play. Game times are Saturday 11:30am -1:30pm, 2:00pm - 4:00pm, and again on Sunday from 1:00pm - 3:00pm in Special Events Area 2.

· Indian Head Massage. The power of a massage is therapeutic as well as relaxing, especially to a disabled child. The American Institute of Indian Head Massage will be giving free Indian Head Massages during the event to anyone wanting to relax and escape for a moment in the day. Visit Booth 211 anytime over the three days.

· Brookhaven Wheelchair Basketball. The Brookhaven Wheelchair Athletic Program is the only recreational program run by a township in New York that is specifically designed for wheelchair users. The program offers participants the opportunity to play several sports, including basketball, softball, and hand cycling. The Brookhaven Wheelchair athletes will be on hand to provide a demonstration of wheelchair basketball. Game times are Saturday ONLY: 10:30am - 12:00pm, 1:00pm - 2:30pm, and again at 3:30pm - 5:00pm in Special Events Area 1. Visit booth 332.

· Hip Hop Rap Artist Tap Waterz & 4 Wheel City will perform songs & dance from their CD’s. The movement was started due to being tired of going to places in a city as big as NYC and not being able to get in because there were steps and no elevators or ramps other than at the clubs and stadiums. Basically fed up with the system and constantly being discriminated against, The 4 Wheel City Movement 4 Improvement was started to fight against these injustices. Friday 10:30am - 11:00am, 1:30pm - 2:00pm and again on Sunday at 11:00am - 11:30am. Visit booth 331 to learn more or buy one of his CDs.

· Professir X Paralyzed Rap Artist - In 1987 Richard Professir was tragically shot and paralyzed. Although, now unable to move certain limbs, he, with the help of genuine family and friends will continue to move mountains. Professir X will be performing on Friday from 11:30am - 12:00pm, 2:30pm - 3:00pm, and again on Sunday at 3:00pm - 3:30pm. Visit booth 324.

· Wheelchair Ballroom Dancing Sponsored by Wheelchair DanceSport USA. Ballroom dancing is one of the hottest trends around these days. The Instructor, Rubin Zakiryanov, has been dancing for 27 years around the world. There will be lessons for those interested in learning the techniques of wheelchair ballroom dancing. Participants can come by on Friday at 12:30pm - 1:30pm, 3:00pm-4:00pm, and again on Sunday from 12:00pm - 1:00pm. Visit booth 336 while at the show.
Attendees will also have a chance to discover and learn about new products and services - from computers to athletic equipment and mobility products to daily living aids - all conveniently displayed to see, test and compare. Exhibiting companies include Daimler Chrysler Dodge, Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center, Permobil, Toyota Motor Sales, and many others. Local and regionally based organizations that work with people with disabilities will also be participating including Cerebral Palsy of New Jersey, Brain Injury Association of New Jersey, and New Jersey Transit just to name a few.

The educational curriculum focuses on relevant topics addressing life today for individuals with disabilities, their family and caregivers. The comprehensive workshop programs will consist of consumer and professional tracks, with certificates of participation available to students, and education and healthcare professionals. Course topics include Maximizing Life with a Disability; Innovations in Wound Care; Birth Injuries and Medical Malpractice; and others.

Special show services will be available for attendees including Complimentary Wheelchair Repair provided by Hands on Concepts. Loaner Wheelchairs will be provided by Permobil and Accessible Vans. For People with Visual Impairments, there will be special workshops and exhibitor information handouts available in large type. For People with Hearing Impairments, there will be a sign language interpreter available to assist persons who are deaf or hearing impaired, for a reasonable length of time per person.

Free Shuttle Bus Service: Accessible Vans Access and Mobility will be providing FREE accessible shuttle service between the hotels in Raritan Center and the Expo Center and between the Metuchen train station and the Expo Center. The shuttles running from the hotels will start operations one hour before the expo opens and stop one hour after the expo closes. Service from the train station will start at 10 am and will stop running to the train station at 4:30 PM, no reservations are required. For your convenience reservations can be made for pick up at the Metuchen station by calling 1-800-221-0034. All reservations must be made by Friday April 21, 2006.

WHEN: Friday, April 21, 2006, 10 am – 5 pm
Saturday, April 22, 2006, 10 am – 5 pm
Sunday, April 23, 2006, 11 am – 5 pm

WHERE: New Jersey Convention and Expo Center, Edison, NJ

PRODUCED & Questex Media Group
MANAGED BY: 800-385-3085
www.abilitiesexpo.com

Posted by Amy Riemer

Posted by mjohnson at 01:14 PM

April 17, 2006

SFSU history professor wins CSU Wang Family Excellence Award

SFSU history professor wins CSU Wang Family Excellence Award
Leading disability studies scholar Paul Longmore among five ‘outstanding’ honorees statewide

SAN FRANCISCO, April 17, 2006 -ˇ Paul Longmore, a professor of history at San Francisco State University, is one of five recipients of the 2006 California State University Wang Family Excellence Award. The award celebrates CSU distinguished faculty and administrators who have displayed extraordinary commitment and dedication and made outstanding contributions and achievements in their field.

Longmore has not only helped change public perception of people with disabilities, but has also helped establish the analysis of disability as a field in academic research and teaching, much as women studies and ethnic studies were shaped in prior decades. He is the second SFSU faculty member to win a Wang Award. Geoffrey Marcy, adjunct professor of physics and astronomy, won in 1999 for his key work in the discovery of more than 14 extra-solar planets.

“Great professors and leaders such as these … individuals have a strong passion for helping students learn and providing them with the best education possible,” said Stanley T. Wang, a former CSU trustee who established the awards in 1998 with a $1-million gift. “I am a strong believer that faculty are the key to a high-quality education, which is the door to success and happiness in life.”

Four faculty members and one administrator throughout the CSU system will receive $20,000 awards and will be honored at the CSU Trustees’ meeting May 16 – 17. Each campus president may nominate one faculty member from each of four discipline categories, as well as one administrator.

Longmore won the 2005 Henry B. Betts Award from the American Association of People with Disabilities, named in honor of the rehabilitation medicine pioneer and advocate for people with physical disabilities.

Longmore, who joined SFSU in 1992, is an expert on disability issues and a scholar in American colonial history. He is director of the SFSU Institute on Disability and served as co-director of the National Endowment for the Humanities Summer Institute on Disability Studies, a first-of-its-kind event held at SFSU in 2000. Later that year he helped convene the first major academic symposium on disability and sexuality.

He speaks out frequently against disability discrimination, depictions of disability in film and television, physician-assisted suicide, and changes in the Americans with Disabilities Act that have removed coverage for 70 percent of the disabled population.

In 1988, Longmore lit a match to his book on George Washington in front of the Social Security Administration’s offices in Los Angeles as a protest to policies that penalized disabled professionals for earning money through education, fellowships and grants. The Longmore Amendment was established soon after, allowing disabled authors to count publishing royalties as earned income. He recounted the protest in the title essay of his 2003 book “Why I Burned My Book and Other Essays on Disability.”

Longmore is working on two more books: one about the cultural significance of telethons in the United States, and the other about nationalism and the coming of the American Revolution.

Posted by Matt Itelson

Posted by mjohnson at 01:15 PM

April 14, 2006

"Destination Anywhere" call for entries, deadline: July 14, 2006

Sponsored by VSA arts and Volkswagen of America, Inc. Open to young artists with disabilities, ages 16 -25, living within the United States. No entry fee. "Destination Anywhere" invites artists to consider the picture plane as a destination, a place where the viewer might take a trip they never expected. Art must be an original work that has been completed in the last three (3) years. Eligible media includes: paintings, drawings, fine art prints, photography, computer generated prints, and mixed media; must be presented in two dimensions. Artwork should not exceed 60 inches in either direction. Fifteen (15) finalists will be awarded a total of $60,000 in awards during an awards ceremony on Capitol Hill in September 2006, and artwork will be displayed in a nation-wide touring exhibit that debuts at the Smithsonian. For additional information and to download an application, please visit: http://www.vsarts.org/VW

For more information, please contact: Jennifer Colaguori, visual arts coordinator, at 800.933.8721 x3885 or jenniferc@vsarts.org.

Posted by Jennifer Colaguori

Posted by mjohnson at 04:51 PM

The Manhattan Adult ADD Support Group To Host Dr. Darin Burdman, DC

The Manhattan Adult ADD Support Group
(http://www.maadddsg.org)

To Host Dr. Darin Burdman, DC, Chiropractor At Congregation Ansche Chesed 251 West 100th St. NY, 10025 (Between B'way & West End Ave.)

Please use The Entrance On 100th Street.

On Thursday April 27th, @ 7:00 PM
(Doors open @ 6:30 PM)
Dr. Burdman will discuss ways in which Chiropratic treatment can relieve ADD/ADHD like symtoms.

Most people see a chiropractor for relief from pain or tension or spasms of the back or neck. And, through a practitioner's hands-on manipulation of these regions, that's often what they get.

But some chiropractors see a wider role for the spinal corridor -- the backbone and neckbone; the 26 attached horizontal bones; the discs which cushion the bones; the hinges, or joints, which connect the bones; the sacs which contain joint-lubricating fluid; the surounding muscles and ligaments; and the nerve-cell projection known as the spinal cord -- in overall human health. This includes mental health.

Some think that a distortion in one of the above can pinch a nerve, which can then send a faulty electrical signal upward -- and into the brain. They suppose that -- independent of any pain -- such errant signaling can cause cognitive or behavioral confusion. One form of confusion is ADD.

Might such neural "noise" be reduced by -- somehow -- adjusting that which abuts the spinal cord? Some would say yes. On April 27, we'll hear from a clinician who claims success in relieving ADD-type symptoms through spinal-corrdor manipulation.

Darin Burdman (drburdman.com) graduated from the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic in Whittier, California, in 1985. Dr. Burdman then worked at White Memorial Medical Center in Los Angeles, as well as privately. After moving here, he worked at the New York Center for Pain Management and Physical Therapy, in Brooklyn; at the Haym Solomon Home for the Aged, also in Brooklyn; and privately in Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Posted by Robert

Posted by mjohnson at 12:40 PM

April 13, 2006

disTHIS! Film Series Presents "Born Freak: An Evening with Mat Fraser" Wednesday, May 3!

Our next event in the disTHIS! Film Series on May 3, will feature a screening of the film "Born Freak" in which British actor Mat Fraser reviews the controversial history of freak shows and dares to ask, "will society ever view disabled performers as more than freaks?"

"Born Freak" was winner of the Best of the Festival at Superfest International Disability Film Festival in 2004.

After the screening, audience members will have the opportunity to discuss the provocative issues raised in "Born Freak" with the film's star, poet, researcher, and thalidomide ninja himself, Mat Fraser, who received rave reviews in last year's "The Flid Show" in NYC and will be in town from London for a few days to shoot footage on location in Coney Island for his latest project based on the life of circus performer Sealo, The Sealboy.

For complete details, go to: http://disthis.org

SPACE IS LIMITED!  To secure a seat, please RSVP by calling: 212.251.4092

Lawrence Carter-Long
Network Coordinator, Disabilities Network of NYC 
Email: LCarterLong@uwnyc.org

Posted by mjohnson at 12:47 PM

April 12, 2006

I am the co-founder of a non-profit organization called Beyond Careers California.

The goal of BCC is to assist people in the disabled community to seek self-employment, by becoming financially independent.

I would like to hear from other disabled persons about the interest in this services.

I can be reached by E-Mail

rubythous@aol.com

Posted by ruby l. davis

Posted by mjohnson at 05:01 AM

April 11, 2006

State Rips Off $29 Million from Medicaid-Eligible Adults with Developmental Disabilities Waiting for Services

This story was written in honor of March being Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Betcha weren't aware of that…

From 2001 to 2005, the State of Oregon saved over 29 million dollars through nine community based "brokerages" operating to connect adults with developmental disabilities with services in the community. More than 2,000 people are still waiting for services and currently receiving nothing more than a yearly visit with a county case manager. It's important to note that these are people who have already qualified for Medicaid funded services, but have been placed on a "waiting list" because it's said that services are not available. But, instead of making services available, the legislature has chosen to use the savings to help balance the State's budget.

UNLOCK THE WAITLIST! Staley Settlement November 2001

Most of you are probably unaware of a lawsuit brought by Oregon Advocacy Center back in 2000 on behalf of five Medicaid eligible adults with developmental disabilities. Oregon Advocacy Center is the federally funded Protection and Advocacy agency charged with providing legal assistance and investigating and resolving abuse and neglect cases involving people with mental and developmental disabilities. In this case, the neglect charges were brought against then Governor Kitzhaber and the state of Oregon. How were they neglecting people with developmental disabilities? By denying equal access to Medicaid funded support services to all people with developmental disabilities who already qualified for them. According to Medicaid rules, services are supposed to be in place within 90 days of eligibility.

Immediately the governor's lawyers got together with the lawyers at OAC to arrange a settlement. Although there was plenty of evidence of the state's long term neglect, the lawyers decided on a settlement known as the Staley Settlement . According to the agreement, appropriate support services were to be made available to ALL adults eligible for developmental disability services by 2005.

The disability advocacy community was all over the media - from the ARC to the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities (OCDD), the "Unlock the Waitlist" campaign was a success! Brokerages were created with the mission statement: "Universal access to services for all!" 

But, from the beginning, the state was enrolling into brokerages more people who already had been receiving state-funded services and young people straight out of high school than people who had been on the original waiting list. In retrospect, it appeared that the plan from the beginning was to transfer people to the brokerages at a lower cost and return the savings to the general fund to use elsewhere, rather than reinvesting it in services for people with developmental disabilities who were waiting. By late 2003, only 1,000 of the original 3,100 had been enrolled from the waiting list. A freeze on new enrollments was put in place.

Resettlement signed by Governor September 22 2003

No one from the advocacy community including the ARC of Oregon, Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities (OCDD), or the brokerages appeared at a hearing on Jan 14, 2004 to contest the September 22, 2003 "modification " of the agreement that extended the waitlist to 2009. By this time, the advocates had taken up the mantra of "protect what we have" rather than insisting on getting services to the 2,000 people who were still waiting. This time the media was absent, too. According to the questions and answers document prepared by DHS and posted on the ARC website, "the modification saves the State money and prevents cuts in existing services by extending the pace and timelines in which people will eventually get services."

Disability Activists Work Group (DAWG)

At the ARC's 50 year anniversary convention May 8, 2004, Mike Maley, one of the DHS employees responsible for overseeing the implementation of the brokerages, announced that 50% of the people from the waitlist were now enrolled in the brokerages. At the time, David was a Personal Agent (case manager) working at Inclusion, Inc, one of the brokerages located in Portland. He knew the truth was that of the original 3,100 on the waiting list, only 1/3 had been enrolled. On May 9, the day following this deliberate confusion of the facts regarding enrollment numbers, the Disability Activists Work Group (DAWG) was formed.

The Unified Response: Stonewalling and Silence

On May 25 DAWG attended a DHS budget Hearing where we made it clear that what was going on would not be done quietly or without protest. When David was done with his testimony calling into question the shell game that DHS was playing with the Staley budget, Gary Weeks, director of DHS at the time, stated that he couldn't argue with any of the points David had made.

On August 2, at another DHS budget hearing, Mr. Weeks gave a presentation in which he said that community based brokerage services were less expensive for the state. On August 26, DAWG sent James Toewes, director of Seniors and People with Disabilities (SPD), four specific questions identifying several "pots" of money where it appeared that millions of dollars must have already been saved -- either through individual service plan dollars that were budgeted but never used, or lower administrative and service costs from those they had transferred to the brokerages. He replied on 9/30/04, but only after some "urging" from us to Gary Weeks. His reply was that he didn't have the staff resources to answer our questions, and suggested that we contact Jim Wrigley of the Oregon Advocacy Center (OAC) or Bill Lynch, the chair of the Staley Implementation Group to get the answers.

We knew that Mr. Toewes was just stonewalling us, but we wrote to Mr. Wrigley anyway. On October 20, 2004 Jim Wrigley responded that he didn't know the answers to any of our questions about the budget. We wondered how or why the attorney for the litigants would resettle without having this kind of detail on the budget for implementing the program outlined in the agreement. (NOTE: This was a full year after the resettlement.) In any event, he wouldn't have time to look into it until after the Emergency Board meeting in November, 2004.

By January 6, 2005 we still hadn't heard from Mr. Wrigley at OAC responding to our questions from 3 months earlier, so DAWG contacted Senator Avel Gordley asking for help in getting the answers to our questions regarding the vast savings the State has seen through the misuse of the Staley Settlement funding. On January 24, 2005, Senator Gordley wrote a pointed email to Mr. Weeks at DHS telling him to get us the numbers we had been requesting since August.

We finally received the numbers from Jim Wrigley of OAC on 2/28/05. (NOTE the confidentiality warning regarding public information.) Mr. Wrigley's calculation was a little more than $20.5 million, which doesn't include the savings in operating costs at the brokerages. This adds another 8.5 million in savings. It's easy to chalk up lower operating costs if you need fewer personal agents (case managers) to handle a lower caseload due to keeping people on the waiting list. Our calculation from the information we finally received from DHS is that over 29 million of the legislatively adopted budget was saved through the brokerages and returned to the state's general fund. Note that in his email Mr. Wrigley acknowledges that this program was cut by 50 percent.

For almost two years, DAWG (Disability Activists Work Group) has sought to call for accountability on how and why this could happen to such a vulnerable population. We have contacted several of our legislators, but no one in the legislature has seen fit to answer any question regarding what happened to the 29 million.

As it turns out, the November Emergency Board meeting that Mr. Wrigley referred to was an opportunity for DHS to present yet another "rebalancing" of their budget, in which they shifted $14.2 million of the previously established funding from the Staley program to the general fund to be used for other programs.

On one of the last days of the 2005 legislative session on the Oregon Public Affairs Network, Senator Kurt Schrader spoke on the floor about HB 2797 , which won't allow the State to continue its practice of using the Staley savings to fund other state programs. He thanked "the Staley folks for ONCE AGAIN stepping up to the plate in light of the difficulties within the budget" and recommended that the bill be passed. 

We wrote to the Staley Implementation Group (SIG) early in the morning on August 10 asking four questions related to Senator Schrader's comment. Since the Staley Implementation Group is supposed to be the oversight committee in charge of the decision making around implementation of the settlement, we assumed they must be the "Staley folks" the senator mentioned and that they would know what he was referring to in his commendation about "stepping up."

DAWG later received a forwarded copy of an interesting email from Kathryn Weit to the SIG members, who is the legislative liaison (paid lobbyist) for the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities and a Staley Implementation Group member, urging the rest of the group to stay on message and not respond directly to our questions. (NOTE that our email to SIG was also sent to the legislators, but Ms. Weit chose to take them out of the loop in her message.) It's interesting that while the SIG is supposed to be the oversight committee, Ms. Weit is obviously educating them about something they had no knowledge of. To this date, we have not received the "unified response" she refers to. This unified response to DAWG(S) was also mentioned in the minutes of the SIG committee in September. We have requested a copy of the unified response that was discussed during the September meeting, but have so far been stonewalled on this, too.

DAWG believes that the protection and advocacy system lawyers and the Staley Implementation Group should have stepped up to insist that any savings be returned to the program to expand services to more people. This is especially true since there was a lawsuit settlement that intended just that. If a settlement is going to create a special fund for a special purpose, we have a reasonable expectation that the money in that fund will be spent for that purpose, and not be used as a slush fund to provide backup financing for other programs.

Over 2,000 people continue to wait.

The Staley agreement has never been fully funded or executed in good faith according to the court order. The governor's "principles" budget for 2005-2007 continues the trend to underfund the program. There are still over 2,000 people with a developmental disability whose civil rights are violated daily by remaining on the waitlist for Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver Services for which they have already been found eligible. Some of these people have been waiting for more than 30 years. For too long, state policy makers, politicians and the public have ignored that which is plainly stated in the ADD Act of 2000, that "a substantial portion of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families do not have access to appropriate support ... and remain unserved or underserved."

Posted by Captain Dandy

Posted by mjohnson at 05:58 PM

April 10, 2006

New consumer group in western kansas, members wanted.

Holding meetings monthly to empower,inform & educate the disabled on government policy on all levels .

Government due process functions on community,state & federal scale and must be addressed on all levels to be fully understood .

CAPPCA , stands for Community Action Public Policy Change Agents .

National mainstream media just don't see the importantence of doing a human interest story on such ventures as ours ,we majorlly need the support of those in media who can provide us true justice in understanding what we are totally and what we are working so hard to achieve in all our task to ensure equal communication and understanding between elected officials and the disabled consumer/citizen.

I urge all to contact me on our efforts and learn just how you in your own region may be able to become a consumer advocate to make a positive impact in the lives of all who may not be able enough to speak for themselves .

Information Request may be forwarded to me via e-mail :

cappca@hotmail.com

Posted by KendallHornback

Posted by mjohnson at 04:32 PM

Filming is very much underway for "The Ghost at the Banquet."

A documentary film about the stigma against those with developmental disabilities is due to be wrapped up with shooting this November. Correy Lennox lives in New Mexico and is the father of a child with autism. The continual and ubiquitous rape, torture, and murder of those with developmental disabilities brought on by a culture which devalues this group of people by continually finding it acceptable to call people "retard" was the impetus for this film. Commentators include actor Chris Burke of "Life Goes On" fame, and author Rachel Simon, who wrote "Riding the Bus with My Sister."

Posted by Jack Wolf.

Posted by mjohnson at 09:11 AM

Unite 2 Fight Paralysis and the Christopher Reeve Foundation are co-sponsoring a rally and symposium in Washington DC from Sunday, April 30th through Tuesday, May 2nd.

The Rally is in support of the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Act and will occur in Capitol Park from 11 AM to 12 PM on May 2nd. Susan Sarandon will host the event as a tribute to her recently departed friend, Dana Reeve.

The symposium on Sunday and Monday, April 30th and May 1st features an outstanding lineup of scientists from across the country. Additionally, there will be a workshop for grassroots activism on the basics of contacting and meeting with your legislators as well as talking points on disability issues.

If you are in the DC area, I encourage you to join us in raising a little hell on Capitol Hill. For more information, you should link to www.working2walk.org or www.unite2fightparalysis.org.

Hope to see you there!

Posted by John E. Smith.

Posted by mjohnson at 08:07 AM

April 05, 2006

Kentucky Protection and Advocacy and the Cabinet for Health and Family Services Reach Agreement to Increase Community Support for People with Mental Retardation and Related Conditions

For Immediate Release Contact: Maureen Fitzgerald
January 26, 2006
502-564-2967

Kentucky Protection & Advocacy, the Commonwealth's Disability Rights Legal Advocacy Agency, and the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, have reached an agreement that will increase funding for Medicaid services for people with developmental disabilities and move the state away from Medicaid's institutional bias toward a preference for community-based services.

The agreement marks the culmination of the civil rights class action lawsuit, Michelle P., et al. vs. M. Birdwhistell, et al., filed in federal court in 2002 by four individuals with disabilities who were living at home with aging caregivers. The plaintiffs sought to require the state to provide Medicaid services in a timely manner so that they could stay in community, home-like settings rather than live in institutions such as nursing homes or large state-run intermediate care facilities.

"This agreement will commit state health officials and the executive branch to seek a substantial increase in the amount of money in the Medicaid program that is devoted to services for people with mental retardation and developmental disabilities," said Ken Zeller, lead attorney for the plaintiffs. The shift in emphasis from institutional care to community services is expected to free up an increasing level of funding over a five year period for community-based services while not ignoring the preference of those who choose institutional care for themselves or their loved ones. "This is about people being able to choose to live in communities and receive the services they need to participate and interact socially with their non-disabled peers,” said Mr. Zeller. The Settlement Agreement becomes an Order of the Court when finally approved and the Court will retain jurisdiction over the case for a period of two years for enforcement purposes.

"We look forward to working with the Cabinet to reach a goal we all share, which is to build community supports and monitoring systems so that people can live, work, and play safely in home-like settings in typical neighborhoods," said Maureen Fitzgerald, director of P&A.

In the 2006-2008 biennium the settlement calls for:

• An infusion of $27 million for the Supports for Community Living program (200 new SCL slots), a program that is designed as an alternative to institutional care for people such as those in the class


• $15.2 million for crisis intervention services designed to prevent the hospitalization of class members during acute, short term crisis periods


• $3 million for the state Supported Living program, a program that serves class members as well as persons with other disabilities to enable them to succeed in community living

  The Settlement Agreement calls for the State to devote the following amounts to services for persons with mental retardation and developmental disabilities:

  (Baseline 2004) ($237,115,704)
  Calendar Year (CY) 2006 $303,414,353.00
  (CY) 2007 $342,311,477.99
  (CY) 2008 $385,106,343.00
  (CY) 2009 $432,484,401.00
  (CY) 2010 $485,100,330.00

  The plaintiffs sought community-based services under the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and federal Medicaid law. P&A argued that, consistent with the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark disability discrimination case, Olmstead v. L.C., people with mental retardation or developmental disabilities who were eligible for the types of services that are provided in intermediate care facilities for mental retardation (ICFs/MR) were entitled to those same services in a timely manner in more integrated settings (community-based). The state argued that it had a comprehensive, effectively working plan for placing people with mental disabilities in less restrictive settings and a waiting list that moved at a reasonable pace.

  The case had been scheduled to go to trial in March 2006. With the help of mediator, Federal Magistrate Judge J. Gregory Wehrman, the parties successfully reached a settlement agreement after four months of intense negotiation.

  U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Hood will consider preliminary approval of the settlement in a hearing set for 2:30 p.m. today in the federal courthouse in Lexington Kentucky. After notice is given to the class members Judge Hood will hold a final fairness hearing. Class members will have a chance to review the settlement and if they disagree, will be able to file formal objections. The hearing will be held at a time to be set by the Court but is anticipated to be in 6-8 weeks.

  Posted by Ken Zeller

  Posted by mjohnson at 10:36 AM

  April 03, 2006

  Surveying and Anything But...Complying with the Law

  New York State Independent Living Council, Inc. (NYSILC)
  111 Washington Avenue, Suite 101, Albany, NY 12210
  (518) 427-1060 Voice & TDD, (518) 427-1139 Fax
  1(888) 469-7452 Toll Free (NYS Only)
  www.nysilc.org or nysilc@nysilc.org
  
  March 31, 2006
  Contact Information:
  Howard Schaffer
  (518) 427-1060
  Williams (518) 427-1060
  
  Surveying and Anything But...Complying with the Law
  The most recent diversion in New York’s attempt to implement the federal Help America Vote Act (HAVA) emerged from comments made to the media at the conclusion of a court hearing held on Thursday, March 23, 2006 in Albany.

  All of a sudden, the state felt inspired to survey relevant stakeholders. County election commissioners are being asked to determine how many people with disabilities lived in their jurisdictions and how many were likely to vote.

  Why? I can't even begin to imagine. Is the state going to send people with disabilities who "self-identify" a decal with their designated polling place notification? Will New Yorkers with disabilities be made to slap on these decals, with a "D" for "disability," on their foreheads to help election officials identify and count us? This is obviously absurd, but it is no different that the state's ongoing obsession with doing anything but complying with the law.

  After being out of compliance for so long, New York needs to spend its time and resources implementing and upholding the law. There must be at least one fully accessible voting machine per polling place and every polling site must meet the access guidelines issued by the U.S. Department of Justice (US DOJ) per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HAVA (US DOJ State of Mississippi letter, March 2005), and the State Attorney General’s February 2000 Federal District Court decision upholding the law.

  If New York wants to get serious about its responsibility under HAVA and the ADA, then it should conduct a different kind of survey. The Governor, State Senators, Assembly members, and State Attorney General should all answer the following two questions before the April 10th deadline. The results can be submitted to the US DOJ and Federal Judge in the case.

  1) Why won’t you eliminate the state’s full-face ballot requirement?

  2) Why won’t you amend state election law to ensure every polling site is accessible consistent with federal law (US DOJ guidelines)?

  State lawmakers owe it to taxpayers to explain why they insist on a ballot format first developed at the end of the 19th century, which does not adapt well to accessible options, including a state mandated voter verified paper trail, represents prototype technology for distribution in an extremely limited market, AND COSTS TWICE THE AMOUNT OF THE MORE ACCESSIBLE NON FULL-FACE BALLOT MACHINE ALTERNATIVES.

  New York is in desperate need of a leader who will demand this OBVIOUS and RESPONSIBLE change. The leader must also shame any colleague that still finds it acceptable to condone the existence of inaccessible polling places.

  Our current situation in New York is one of those “watershed” moments where state lawmakers need to rise to the occasion. If not, the true immoral practice will be exposed when elected officials sacrifice the voting access needs of citizens with disabilities due to laziness, indifference, or even worse, for the self-serving acts of perpetuating incumbencies, house majorities, and staff jobs.

  Brad Williams, Executive Director, NYSILC

  Posted by Brad Williams.
  

  Posted by mjohnson at 06:38 PM

  Make friends and find romance!

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  It is a place for people of all nationalities, backgrounds and life-challenges to share, connect and just be heard. This site is aimed at facilitating social, personal and romantic development in a supportive and understanding environment. It’s a fun way to meet new people, make new friends, and hopefully find a partner for life. Membership is free, easy and non-committal. Just click on the link below, create a profile, and you are ready to go!

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  Posted by Erin Shamberg

  Posted by mjohnson at 06:36 PM