Winter 2002 Newsletter

INDEPENDENT TIMES

Volume X Issue 2, Winter 2002

Our greatest need as human beings is the freedom to pursue our dreams.

photo of Mary Margaret Moore, Executive Director of ILCNSCA
Mary Margaret Moore, Executive Director

From the Executive Director:

Since 9/11 the ILCNSCA has been receiving calls and questions from our consumers regarding how to best cope with the information coming from television and newspapers about terrorism. The Center has been responding to these inquiries with supportive listening, offering to set up individual meetings and providing handouts from FEMA/Red Cross on Preparedness Planning for Persons with Disabilities.

Just recently I was informed that the Commonwealth has received some funding for a Counseling and Information Help Line which is available to take calls and respond to voice messages from 9AM to 5PM Monday through Friday. That number is 1-800-724-8443.

In addition, I have scheduled a workshop/meeting at ILCNSCA entitled Emergency Preparedness for Persons with Disabilities on December 11. We will be contacting some of the municipalities to share with us and thus us with you their plans for insuring the safety and security of persons with disabilities as part of their local emergency preparedness plans. We will hold one session in the afternoon, and one on that evening. See our calendar section for more details and registration information.

ILCNSCA is confronting the impact of 9/11 on our finances. We have received notification, along with all other ILC's across the state, of budgetary cuts. We will be able to handle those cuts with additional fundraising and support from all of you. We are looking for your participation in our fundraising events and we are relying more on our current volunteers. If you have web page development skills and would like to be a volunteer to assist us with this function, please contact Shawn McDuff for an application. All volunteers of ILCNSCA must also complete and meet the Criminal Offender Record Investigation protocol of the Commonwealth.

On a cheerier note, we have letters for you to send to your local state legislators advocating for our funding for next fiscal year, a budget they are crafting this winter. Please call the Center and we will send you a sample. Your support is always appreciated. Our local legislators do listen to your/our letters and phone calls and emails. We hope they will have positive news for us when they attend our Legislative Breakfast, which is scheduled for Friday, April 12, 2002. More information will be sent out on that event in February.

I am receiving a new left knee on January 14th. Since the age of 19, when the doctors told me that my Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis would prevent me from walking unassisted, until this spring I have been seeking knee replacement. Now, after 33 years, I have been approved as a candidate. I am excited and scared. From mid-January till early February Kathy O'Brien, Associate Director, will be in charge of the Agency. Although I will not physically be at the Center I will be available through Kathy until the end of March. So, I wish you a Happy New Year!!! !

Mary Margaret Moore

ILCNSCA Annual Meeting 2001

On October 16, 2001 the ILCNSCA 14th Annual meeting was held at the Center. Many attended this gathering to meet the new candidate, John Litchman, who was running for the '02 Board. Jean Deschene, former Vice President of the Board and Board member, shared the new Strategic Plan for the Center.

This plan lays our the goals for ILCNSCA for fiscal years 2002 to 2004.
Mary Margaret Moore, Executive Director, presented the Annual Report. Gregg Murray, Board Treasurer, gave the year-end financial report and asked for all to write letters to the state legislature to increase our funds.

Debbie Wilde, Chair of the Financial Development Committee, outlined plans by to raise funds. Sale of the Entertainment 2002 Books were announced. March 10th, May 20th, and June 24th, 2002 will be shopping days at Crosby's Markets with 5% of the proceed to ILCNSCA for shoppers who identify themselves with our agency. There will be two walk-a-thons on May 18, 2002. One will be at Salem High School track and one at Gloucester High School track. If anyone is willing to help Debbie on any of these activities, please send her an EMAIL to d.wilde@motorola.com.

Janet Foley, Board Secretary and Chair of the Nominations Committee, announced the voting results. Mr. John Litchman was officially installed to the Board of ILCNSCA. Acknowledgement by the Board of staff efforts closed out the meeting.

If you would like a copy of either the Strategic Plan or the Annual Report, please call the Center at 978-741-0077 v/tty for us to mail you one or come by to pick up a copy.

Department of Mental Health Receives Federal Funding for
Counseling Assistance in Aftermath of September 11

If you are troubled by the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001 you can call 1-800-724-8443, 9AM to 5PM, Monday through Friday and someone will answer your call. You can set up individual or group counseling sessions in you local community with counselors to assist you in your coping with the tragedy of September 11 and its aftermath.

Outdoor Explorations Wraps Up Another Successful Program Season
Medford, Mass. (December, 2001)

Outdoor Explorations, a not-for-profit organization devoted to helping people both with and without disabilities participate in shared outdoor adventures, is wrapping up its 2001 program season. Outdoor Explorations served over 600 participants this season with approximately 50% having a variety of cognitive, physical, sensory, and emotional disabilities. Outdoor Explorations (OE) has been leading adventure trips and environmental service projects all over New England since being founded in 1991 and it is the only not-for-profit organization in Massachusetts to offer this innovative combination of inclusion, service, and learning in the outdoors.

This year the OE team introduced two new programs, "Rocks and Ropes", a combination rock-climbing and high-ropes course, and "Sailing at Piers Park" in Charlestown. Plans for next season include the addition of new cycling programs and an expanded schedule of kayaking and backpacking trips. With the exception of rafting and overnight backpacking trips, all programs are wheelchair accessible and with a month's notice most other adaptations can be accommodated.

Although the program season is winding down there are a number of snowshoe clinics and an overnight winter adventure planned for January and February of 2002. Scholarships are available for those in need. If you would like more information about Outdoor Explorations or are interesting in going on an outdoor adventure, contact Maile Moore at (781) 395-4999 or visit the OE web site at www.outdoorexplorations.org. See you there!

Access Art by Art Daignault

White House Website

According to the White House website Accessibility section, www.whitehouse.gov, new features have been designed to improve access for individuals with disabilities. The improvements will help people with visual and hearing impairments. If you use any of these new features described in the Accessibility section of the website, the White House wants to hear your comments or suggestions. You can comment by calling the White House switchboard at (202) 456-1414 (v), (202) 456-6213 (tty) or by fax at (202) 456-2461. If you would like to write to the President, the mailing address of the White House is 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500.

Besides being in English, the White House website is also in Spanish. Some of the topics on the website include major speeches by the President, policies of the Bush Administration, history and tours of the White House, information on the government and a section for kids only. The next time you are surfing the Internet you might want to take a look at the White House website. You will be surprised by what you might find. I know I was.

Talking ATM Machines

In the summer 2001 issue of "Access New England", Fleet Bank and the Disability Law Center announced a plan to make Fleet banking services more accessible to individuals who are blind or visually impaired. According to Stan Eichner of the Disability Law Center, Fleet Bank is the only bank in Massachusetts to have talking ATM machines. Fleet's website, www.fleet.com, states that, by the end of 2003, they will have installed over 1400 Talking ATM machines. Accessibility topics discussed on their website include auxiliary aids & services policy, talking ATMs, banking documents in alternative formats, web accessibility, tips for using screen reader software with Fleet Home Link Online Banking and accessibility requests or comments.

Of the 20 cities/towns that the ILCNSCA serves 15 cities/towns have a Talking ATM machine. The exceptions are: Essex, Ipswich, Nahant, Rockport and Wenham. To find the nearest location of a Talking ATM machine with the address of the branch and with driving instructions including a map go to Fleet's website or by calling Customer Service at 1-800-841-4000. Headsets are available free of charge at the Fleet Branches that have talking ATMs or by calling the Fleet Telephone Banking at 1-800-841-4000.

ILCNSCA is checking out the status of other North Shore and Cape Ann banks to see when they will be fully accessible. We will let you know the outcome of our research.

Accessibility Issues

ILCNSCA is interested in hearing from you regarding any access issue you are encountering. We are committed to working with individuals, businesses and municipalities in the 20 cities/towns in our service area to increase accessibility for everyone. If you or someone you know has an accessibility issue, Access Art, alias Art Daignault, would like to hear from you. Art will assist you to explore your issue, find out if there is a possible violation, to file a complaint in necessary, how to advocate and educate others on your access rights, e.g., landlords and business owners, and give you support to make things more accessible for yourself. Contact Art Daignault , Access Specialist, at 978-741-0077 v/tty or email: adaignault@ilcnsca.org, and write "Access Issue" in subject line.

ILCNSCA Title 7 Part B Program Update

As of October 1, 2001 in accordance with the State Plan for Independent Living FY 2002-2004 that was approved by the Federal government, ILCNSCA's Title 7 Part B Program underwent changes in services available to eligible consumers. The major change is the decrease in funds available for home modifications from a maximum $4000 to a maximum of $1000. This change occurred because of the existence of the State's Home Modifications for the Disabled Loan Program which can provide a no or low interest deferred payment loan of up to $25,000 for home modifications to home owners
who are disabled or who have a disabled family member.

The purpose of the ILCNSCA Title 7 Part B Program is to provide individual independent living services to consumers, aimed at improving his/her ability to function, continue functioning, or move towards functioning independently in the family or community or to continue in employment. Eligible services that may be funded under the Title 7 Part B Program include:

· Home modifications for jobs under $1,000 and for modifications to apartments not covered under the 1990 Housing Bill of Rights (HBR);
· Vehicle modifications for passengers/drivers up to a maximum of $12,500;
· Assistive technology;
· Emergency assistance funds up to $500.00 to assist people in moving into the community; and
· Ancillary aids and devices up to $500.00.

For more information about ILCNSCA's Title 7 Part B Program contact Shawn McDuff, Director of Access & Advocacy at (978) 741-0077 V/TTY extension 14 or by email to Smcduff@ilcnsca.org, with "Service Request" in the Subject line.

RASP UPDATE

The findings of the first group of surveys of restaurants in the ILCNSCA service area has been completed as part of the Restaurant Accessibility Survey Project (RASP) funded by the North Shore Self-Help Group. Restaurants were surveyed and are rated for accessibility in the following categories: external access, entry/exit, internal access, restrooms, service, and alternate communication means. Restaurant survey ratings range in score from 1 to 6 with 6 being the highest.

Bertucci's, 27 Enon Street, Beverly, MA

Offered ample accessible parking and has a ground floor entrance offering easy passage for someone using a wheelchair. Even though the majority of tables are fixed, there are a few non-fixed tables with enough knee space for a person using a wheelchair. The restrooms are accessible. The restaurant staff was friendly and respectful. Overall, ILCNSCA would recommend this restaurant, but keep in mind, there are no menus in Braille, large print or on cassette.

Rating: 4

Stromberg's, 2 Bridge Street, Salem, MA

Offered handicapped parking, has a ramped entrance and a doorway offering easy passage for someone using a wheelchair. There are non-fixed tables with enough knee space for a person using a wheelchair, but the maneuverability between tables for individuals in wheelchairs was a concern. The restrooms are accessible. Staff was very helpful. Stromberg's has Braille menus, but no menus large print or on cassette. The ILCNSCA would recommend this restaurant.

Rating: 4

Wardhurst, 31 Lynnfield Street, Peabody, MA.

The handicapped parking at the Wardhurst was close to the accessible ramp and entrance. There were no issues with seating or maneuverability in the dining area. There is an accessible unisex restroom. Restaurant staff was respectful to the needs of the individual with a disability. Overall, ILCNSCA would recommend this restaurant, but keep in mind, there are no menus in Braille, large print or on cassette.

Rating: 4

Victoria Station, Pickering Wharf, Salem, MA 01970,

The Handicapped parking is non-existent. The entrance posed some difficulty for a wheelchair user because of the high threshold and the heaviness of the door. Maneuverability around the tables was fine, but tables lacked ample knee space underneath for a wheelchair user. The restrooms are accessible. Staff was not very helpful. Braille menus are available, but menus are unavailable in large print or on cassette. ILCNSCA would recommend caution in choosing this restaurant for dining.

Rating: 3

If you are interested in participating in the Spring RASP training contact Shawn McDuff at ILCNSCA via phone, (978) 741-0077 x. 12 V/TTY or email Smcduff@ilcnsca.org, with RASP in subject line.

Community Access Monitor Training

On March 12 & 13, 2002 the Independent Living Center of the North Shore & Cape Ann, Inc. (ILCNSCA) is co-sponsoring with the Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) and the Beverly Commission on Disabilities a two-day Community Access Monitor (CAM) Training at the First Baptist Church, 221 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM each day. If you are looking to become a part of the statewide community access monitor cadre and/or work with ILCNSCA as a volunteer on access complaint surveys, technical assistance to municipalities and retail business establishments and system access advocacy issues this training is for you.

Monthly meetings at ILCNSCA for assignments and further skill development will follow this CAM training for all who choose to complete an ILCNSCA volunteer application and form giving permission for Criminal Offender Record Investigation. The CAM training will consist of a presentation by the MOD of a general overview of the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) sections on new construction, alterations & existing buildings; what is readily achievable in new construction and alterations; steps to take before a survey; how to survey a facility, including a practice access survey session; and how to advocate for access to name a few highlights. Subsequent to this initial training you will also have the opportunity to further develop your access monitoring skills through working with MOD statewide.

The registration fee will be $15.00 for consumers and $75.00 for professionals. The registration fee can be paid by check, payable to the ILCNSCA or by cash. The expected registration deadline date is Monday, February 25, 2002. Those who cannot afford the training cost can request a scholarship by contacting Bruce Bruneau of MOD at (800) 322-2020 for more information. Pre-registration is required Lunch is included in the fee and will be provided each day. Contact Art Daignault, (978)741-0077 x.16 (v/tty) Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM or by e-mail, adaignault@ILCNSCA, with "CAM Training" in the subject line.

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Abilities Expo of New England and
Career Fair 2001

On November 16, 17, and 18, 2001, the Abilities Expo of New England and the Career Fair 2001 was held at the Bayside Expo Center in Boston. This event was sponsored by New Mobility magazine, Disability Products Postcards, Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, National Spinal Cord Injury Association, Boston Chapter and the Federation for Children with Special Needs.

The Abilities Expo is the only show dedicated to educating and improving the lives of people with disabilities. There were numerous booths displaying new products and the latest technology; a variety of types of services from computers to athletic equipment; mobility products to daily living aids which were conveniently displayed to see, test and compare.

The Career Fair 2001 was a one day event as part of this Abilities Expo. It was held on Friday, November 16, 2001 and was sponsored by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind and Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. People were able to talk face-to-face with representatives from over 70 companies about thousands of jobs. There were many opportunities to discover new career opportunities for people with disabilities. There were hundreds of people from across the state and from neighboring NE states attending. Many people were able to fill out applications with these different businesses for potential employment while at the fair.

ILCNSCA attended and was able to collect additional information of many of the products displayed. These will now be added to the ILCNSCA resource library for use by consumers and ILCNSCA staff for consumers in bringing forth the latest and most up to date information on these new products.

Written by Elaine O'Donnell.

Free Child Safety Book in Braille

"Keeping Your Child Safer in the World, Tips for Children, Teens, and Parents" (Volume 1)
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), a national clearinghouse and resource center, has just compiled a number of informational brochures on teen and child safety into one Braille book offered through the National Braille Press. This free book has been made possible through a grant from NCMEC.

One in five children who go online regularly is approached by strangers for sex. The fact that children can be approached by predators online is a reality - our children must be educated to deal with these experiences. Topics covered include: Parental Tips to Help Keep Your Children Safer; Child Safety in Amusement Parks; Online Safety for Teens And Preteens; Safety Tips for Halloween; When Your Child is Flying Unaccompanied; Baby-Sitters and Daycare; and much more.

To order this free book, contact: National Braille Press, 88 St. Stephen Street, Boston, MA 02115-4302, or call: (800) 548-7323 toll free or 617-266-6160 x 20, or you can email your order to "orders@nbp.org ".

Review by Elaine O'Donnell

Governor Swift Recognizes North Shore Employer

Crosby's Marketplace, Manchester, MA was one of 15 Massachusetts employers recognized last month by Governor Jane Swift for providing employment to folks with psychiatric, cognitive and physical disabilities. They received the Exemplar Employer Award as an employer who goes "above and beyond the requirements of the law" regarding giving "our disabled citizens an opportunity to be part or our workforce" stated Governor Swift.

Source: DMH News, November 9, 2001

INDEPENDENT TIMES Volume X Issue 2, Winter 2002.
Publisher: Mary Margaret Moore
Editor: Shawn J. McDuff
Contributors: Shawn McDuff, Art Daignault, Jeanne Lyons, Elaine O'Donnell.
The INDEPENDENT TIMES, is a Quarterly newsletter of the Independent Living Center of the North Shore and Cape Ann Inc. (ILCNSCA), 27 Congress St., Suite 107, Salem, MA 01970. Tel: (978) 741-0077 V/TTY, Toll Free Tel: (888) 751-0077 V/TTY, Fax: (978) 741-1133. Email: Information@aol.com. We also have a Cape Ann Branch at Addison-Gilbert Hospital, Room 4, 298 Washington Street in Gloucester, Monday and Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM. Tel: (978) 283-4000 ext. 366 V/TTY.
INDEPENDENT TIMES is published quarterly and welcomes the submission of articles, press releases, original cartoons, and advertisements. The editorial staff reserves the right to edit or reject material submitted to accommodate space or other concerns. Unsolicited material not accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope will not be returned.
ILCNSCA's philosophy is based on the belief that people with disabilities can lead more independent lives when given the opportunity. We also believe that such an opportunity is a human right.
This newsletter is partially funded by a grant from New England ADA Technical Assistance Center. This publication is also available at our BOBBY approved web site: www.ilcnsca.org .

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