Once again, it's Christmas -
that delightful time of year
When hearts are filled with gratitude
and homes are bright with cheer.
When everyone's remembering
good friends and loved ones too -
So naturally, the warmest thoughts
and wishes go to you.
May your home be filled
with happiness,
your hearts with love,
your days with joy -
at Christmas and always.
Merry Christmas
Maddy
Empowering More than 9,000 Students at CUNY!
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Friday, December 21, 2007
Were you, clients or members, impacted by the AAR strike ? Tell me
We are interested in collecting info on the impact of the AAR (Access-A-Ride) strike.
We believe AAR is an essential service that should be run directly by MTA/NYCT, to remove the City & MTA's ability to hide behind their statements that they "were not a party to the strike". We hope that seniors will join us.
The PWD (persons with disability) community was sorely hit by the strike. The 4 companies provided 50% of AAR's capacity approximately 9,000 rides a day. Given that the MTA/City non-contingency plan favored subscription users with a priority for medical trips, users who call for each trip should have been decimated.
I would greatly appreciate it if you could forward this e-mail, as we are trying to gather info from a wide base. AAR serves riders with disability regardless of age, we need to stand united!
Edith Prentiss
emprentiss@juno.com
We believe AAR is an essential service that should be run directly by MTA/NYCT, to remove the City & MTA's ability to hide behind their statements that they "were not a party to the strike". We hope that seniors will join us.
The PWD (persons with disability) community was sorely hit by the strike. The 4 companies provided 50% of AAR's capacity approximately 9,000 rides a day. Given that the MTA/City non-contingency plan favored subscription users with a priority for medical trips, users who call for each trip should have been decimated.
I would greatly appreciate it if you could forward this e-mail, as we are trying to gather info from a wide base. AAR serves riders with disability regardless of age, we need to stand united!
Edith Prentiss
emprentiss@juno.com
Thursday, December 20, 2007
CUNY/IVE Leadership Program Kick-Off Event
CUNY/IVE Leadership Event.
Dear CUNY Student,
Let me thank you for the opportunity to introduce you to the 6th Annual CUNY/IVE Leadership Program. Over the past five years student leaders from all over CUNY have worked on community related projects as participants of our program. Maybe you, too, already have a project in mind that you want to work on and compete for prizes, awards, and even stipended summer internships. Every team that participates will receive a recognized certificate of completion.
Your participation is very flexible (there are no regularly scheduled face-to-face meetings) so that you can adjust the work on your project according to your schedule! IVE will be there to guide and help you to bring your ideas to life!
To learn more about our program and how you can bridge the gap between your college and career , I would like to take this opportunity and am happy to invite you to our Kick-off Event at Baruch College:
INVITATION
Kick-Off Event
CUNY/IVE Leadership Program
February 1, 2007
from
9:00 AM to 12:00 noon
at
Baruch College
Lawrence N. Field Center for Entrepreneurship, Suite 2-140
55 Lexington Avenue , New York, NY 10010
IMPORTANT : Please confirm your attendance (RSVP) by sending an email to atorrentes@gmail.com or call 212.502.2945 by January 30, 2007.
At the Kick-Off Event you will get a detailed program overview, network with other CUNY students, and you will get a chance to sign up. Additionally we are having an introductory workshop about communication strategies and project management. Refreshments will be provided! In the meantime, check out our website for further information about the program, past projects, and much more: http://www.ive.cuny.edu/ (Just click on the leadership link!).
Please feel free to reach out to your friends and peers and get them on board as well. If you have any questions please let me know. I am looking forward to seeing you at Baruch.
Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday and a Happy and Healthy New Year!
Best Regards,
Christoph Winkler, Associate Director
Institute for Virtual Enterprise, The City University of New York
1114 Avenue of the Americas | New York, New York 10036 | 212.502.2945 (p) | 718.368.4880 (f)
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Prepareness for disaster
Having a plan for an emergency before any type of disaster occurs; it's very crucial! Here I want to share this link with videos to help persons with disabilities for disaster: http://www.ready.gov/america/about/instructional.html People with disabilities may need to make specific preparations for emergencies. A new Homeland Security video provides helpful information on how to do so.
For People with Disabilities:
Create a support network to help in an emergency.
Tell these people where you keep your emergency supplies.
Give one member of your support network a key to your house or apartment.
Contact your city or county government's emergency information management office. Many local offices keep lists of people with disabilities so they can be located quickly in a sudden emergency.
Wear medical alert tags or bracelets to help identify your disability.
If you are dependent on dialysis or other life sustaining treatment, know the location and availability of more than one facility.
Show others how to operate your wheelchair.
Know the size and weight of your wheelchair, in addition to whether or not it is collapsible, in case it has to be transported.
Additional Supplies for People with Disabilities: Prescription medicines, list of medications including dosage, list of any allergies.
Extra eyeglasses and hearing-aid batteries.
Extra wheelchair batteries, oxygen.
Keep a list of the style and serial number of medical devices.
Medical insurance and Medicare cards.
List of doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt.
For People with Disabilities:
Create a support network to help in an emergency.
Tell these people where you keep your emergency supplies.
Give one member of your support network a key to your house or apartment.
Contact your city or county government's emergency information management office. Many local offices keep lists of people with disabilities so they can be located quickly in a sudden emergency.
Wear medical alert tags or bracelets to help identify your disability.
If you are dependent on dialysis or other life sustaining treatment, know the location and availability of more than one facility.
Show others how to operate your wheelchair.
Know the size and weight of your wheelchair, in addition to whether or not it is collapsible, in case it has to be transported.
Additional Supplies for People with Disabilities: Prescription medicines, list of medications including dosage, list of any allergies.
Extra eyeglasses and hearing-aid batteries.
Extra wheelchair batteries, oxygen.
Keep a list of the style and serial number of medical devices.
Medical insurance and Medicare cards.
List of doctors, relatives or friends who should be notified if you are hurt.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Events
12/07 Fri 12-3 PM, CIDNY Town Hall Meeting Queens Meeting (Queensborough Public Library, LIC Branch, 37-44 21 St, 36-37 Ave.) A chance to look back at the work we’ve done and to make plans for the future. Come prepared for a lively discussion, and help to make NYC a better place for PWDs RSVP & accommodation request Noor Alam (212) 674-2300 x 141
*new 12/07 Fri 6-8 PM, Sistahs in Search of Truth, Alliance, and Harmony Presents: Handi Pride: Spotlight on GLBT with Disabilities (The Center, 208 W. 13 St, 7-8 Aves) forum addressing issues on coming out, relationships, sex, and discrimination, as well as the lack of resources available to PWDs within the GLBT community. Come hear our stories, become educated as well as enlighten. Come share ideas as well as hear our personal experiences. Info: 212-479-7886
12/09 Sun PM DIA Holiday Party (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org
*new 12/11 Tues 1-4 PM, Brooklyn Systems Change Network (BSCN)Meeting (BCID, 2044 Ocean Ave.(B-3) Light refreshments & exciting discussion. RSVP & request accommodations, Braille, ASL interpreters ect, by 12/10, 718-998-3000, TTY 718-998-7406
12/12 Wed 10:30 AM B’klyn BP Disabilities Advisory Committee (BP Conf Room, 209 Joralemon St) RSVP Ingrid Alexander 718-802-3868 Fax: 718-802-3920 ialexander@brooklynbp.nyc.gov
12/12 Wed 1-4 PM: Mayoral-City Council Broadband Advisory Committee Public Hearing (Manhattan School of Music, Greenfield Hall, 120 Claremont Ave, 122 St) An opputunity to speak out on the importance of good, inexpensive broadband service Register to testify: 212.788.6975 or Kunal.Malhotra@council.nyc.gov.www.nycbroadband.blogspot.com
*new 12/12 Wed 4-6 PM Hearing Education Services & Vision Services Focus Group (UFT 52 Broadway - 19 floor) Services for Deaf/HOH & visually impaired students in NYC are in jeopardy. NYC BOE revamp/reorganize these crucial centralized programs that provide support, resources, and education by putting EVS & HES personnel and students under the control of individual school principals This will be a disservice to the students as many of the principals and their administration lack the knowledge/expertise to adequately provide the services these atudents need to succeed. Also principals will not want to foot the bill for the many services / technological equipment required Questions: Milton Williams 718-432-4300 or MWillia2@schools.nyc.gov
*new 12/13 Thu 5-7 PM, NAMI Bronx Families & Advocates: When the Criminal Justice & Mental Illness Systems Collide (Bx Psychiatric Center, Parker Building, 1500 Water Pl, First Floor) Hon. Matthew D’Emic
Brooklyn Mental Health Court Refreshments will be served RSVP: namibxfamlyadvoc@aol.com Paulina Magnetti or June Rodriques 718-862-3347
12/14 Fri Application deadline extended The We Are All Brooklyn (WAAB) Fellowship invites young professionals, between the ages of 25-40 years old, working or volunteering for community or faith-based organizations in Brooklyn to submit applications! http://www.waab.org/
*new 12/15 Sat 8:30 AM, Women of Color Breakfast in Support of Hillary Clinton for President (DC 37, 125 Barclay St, entrance on Murray St. fully accessible) Tickets: $50 per person (some available @ $25 for those with limited means) All tickets must be purchased in advance--no sales@ door. Further info & RSVP Trudy L. Mason: TLMpr@aol.com or 917-443-3315
*new 12/15 Sat 2 PM, Helping Hands for the disabled of NYC Holiday Party (Bronx) Fee $10.00 per person; the party is being held at an accessible location in the Bronx.: Call Alice at 718-728-0868 between 6 PM - Midnight
12/18 Tues 1 Subcommittees, 2-3:30 PM Man Boro President’s Disability Taskforce (1 Centre Street, 19 Floor South) RSVP by calling (212) 669-4453 or CBrown@manhattanbp.org
12/18 Tues 8:30 PM, NYS Dems 2008 Holiday Party! (Taj Lounge, 48 W 21 St., 5-6 Ave) $7 suggested contribution. CASH BAR RSVP in advance to Marie Parker at mariep@nydems.org / 212-725-8825. Brought to you by..NYS Dem Party, Democratic Leadership for the 21st Century, & NY Dem Lawyers Council, NYS Young Dems, Democracy for NYC & The Daily
12/21 Fri 10 AM NY Network for Action on Medicare & Social Security (NYNAMSS) (200 E 5 St at Third Ave) Molly 212-273-5260 mkrakowski@JASA.ORG
*new 01/07 Mon 7PM, An Evening of Music & Politics in support of Governor Bill Richardson for President of the United States.(Cutting Room, 19 W 24 St) Help celebrate his anticipated victory in Iowa, and cheer him on in the New Hampshire primary the next day. Light refreshments & cash bar. .Join us for an enlightening speaker, fantastic music and great conversation as we bring together Richardson supporters, undecideds and those interested in politics.
01/8-9, Emergency Preparedness, Response, & Recovery - Disability & Special Needs Technical Assistance Conference (Capital Hilton, Washington, DC) Gov’Horizons & Nat’l Organization on Disability's http://www.governmenthorizons.org/emergency-preparedness-and-response08.htm
01/10 Thurs 2 PM ESPA Distant Learning: Paratransit Eligibility 101 http://projectaction.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=ESPA_distance_learning_2008_para_elig_supplemental
*new 01/13 Sun PM DIA (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org
*new 01/15 NYFAHC (MS Society, 733 Third Avenue, 45-46 St)
*new 01/23 Voter registration deadline for 02/05/08 New York State Presidential Primary
01/23 ESPA Distant Learning Securing Funding for a New Travel Training Program info: http://projectaction.easterseals.com click on distant learning
01/24 2 PM ASL Tea Time Tour From New Yorker to Shrek: The Art of William Steig (The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave, 92 St) A light reception will follow the tour. This program is free. RSVP, by 1/18, required 212.423.3225, TTY 212.660.1515, or access@thejm.org.
01/25-28 Fri – Mon SILC Congress 2008: collaboration|innovation working together like never before (New Orleans, LA)
02/05 ESPA Distant Learning Selected Topics in Paratransit Eligibility: Conditional Eligibility info: http://projectaction.easterseals.com click on distant learning
04/21-24 Mon-Thurs, The 2008 Mobility Planning Services) Institute (Renaissance Wash Hotel, DC) teams of leaders from the disability world & transportation share information & strategies to improve access to transportation http://projectaction.easterseals.com
*new 02/10 Sun PM DIA (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org
*new 03/09 Sun PM DIA (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org
*new 04/13 Sun PM DIA (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org
*new 04/26-30, ADAPT Community: 25 Years of Activism and Counting. Grassroots Actions..(Washington DC) Info www.adapt25.org , 512-442-0252 or 303-733-9324
*new 05/01, ADAPT Community: 25th Anniversary BBQ, Exhibition and Show..(Washington DC) Food, music, exhibits, history, multi-media, faces and voices from the ADAPT past Info www.adapt25.org , 512-442-0252 or 303-733-9324
04/27-28 Families Together in New York State Annual Conference YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: (Marriott Hotel, Albany, NY)
05/12-14 Mon-Wed, National ADA Symposium & Expo: Conference on the ADA and Disability Law (St. Louis, MO) http://www.adasymposium.org/
*new 05/18 Sun PM DIA (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org 06/22, 07/20 (if needed), 0817 (if needed), 09/07, 10/05, 11/02, 12/07 (Party
recurrent 3rd Wed of the month 2-3 PM, Men's Group (BCID, 2044 Ocean Ave, Suite B-3, Ave O & P) 718-998-3000
recurrent every Fri 6:30-8:30 PM Wheelchair Dancing (Chelsea Studios, 151 W. 26th St, 6th fl. (6th – 7th Ave) Rubin www.wheelchairdancesportusa.org wdsportusa@hotmail.com or 212 245 0004
recurrent last Sat of the month Free Legal Clinic:: 2-2:30 for appointments -5 PM, Free Legal Clinic (PSGDC, 1 Prospect Park W & President St, entry on President. go down ramp at the green awning) Riley MacLeod 718-499-7701 x137.AAR: drop off at 1 Prospect Park W.)
Duane Reade Accessibility Problems? Gavin Kearney 888-342-3428.or gkearney@nylpi.org
Empire State Voting Watch Dogs - NY Disabled Getting Equal Voting Access (NYDGEVA We are a coalition of consumers, advocates and a professional organization which seeks to resolve barriers impeding equal voting access for New Yorkers with disabilities of any kind. Our coalition name is NY Disabled Getting Equal Voting Access (NYDGEVA). NYDGEVA's goal is to bring all aspects of the disability community together to become eduated and mobilized to work on voting accessibility issues. It was further agreed that the best way to communicate would be by forming a Yahoo Group. If you are interested in insuring the voting rights of New Yorkers with disabilities, please join our group. Subscribe & join by emailing: jadler54-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
ADA Watch & Road to Freedom Bus Tour www.roadtofreedom.org http://adawatch.smugmug.com/gallery/2925333
http://www.esight.org/link.cfm?n=1259 NYLPI’s Opportunity & Access Survey to find out what barriers to services and to physical settings are most important to members of our community. They want to hear from New Yorkers with disabilities who don't regularly contact them. NYLPI is a public interest law office that serves New York City residents with disabilities regarding disability-based discrimination and access issues.
VOLUNTEER -The Big Apple Greeters is seeking volunteers to welcome visitors to New York City and to show them around to places of interest with which the volunteer is familiar, suggest things to see and do, etc. Each visit lasts between 2-4 hours and volunteers are required to do 12 visits a year. People with foreign language skills are in particular demand. For more information and to apply, contact Patricia Ryan at (212) 669-7308.
http://onlineresources.wnylc.net/online_training.asp click on new -Medicare Part D - Part I - (2008) Basics About Part D & Medicare Part D - Part 2 (2008) -- Using the Online Plan-finder for 2008 Enrollment, Part D Plans in New York State, More on Medicaid and EPIC and Part D –Online Medicare Part D trainings Since we are in the midst of the short annual enrollment period (11/15/07 - 12/31/07) for the 2008 year, this is an opportunity to catch up on how the program works, the landscape for 2008 and quickly enroll your clients. The trainings are FREE, but if you want CLE credit, there is a charge. Registration is required even for the free trainings
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/CertificationandComplianc/Downloads/SFFList.pdf CMS’ first ranking of the nation's poor-performing nursing homes. Release of the national list of facilities, identified as special focus facilities (SFFs), is expected to offer individuals seeking long-term health care services, and their families, powerful new information when choosing nursing homes.
http://www.handicapability.org/computers.html FREE Computers for Visually residents of the US & Canada) TCPI provides computers (monitor, keyboard, CD-ROM, modem, speakers, & necessary software) free of charge (a $100 charge to cover packing, shipping, and replacement parts) . Donated computers are refurbished by North Texas PC Users Group volunteers. They are an official Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher (MAR).
MTA NYCT Paratransit Advisory Committee (PAC) – applicants should have working familiarity with ADA transportation regulations, good analytical skills and be able to review or formulate policies / procedures and offer suggestions for improving service and be able to work cooperatively in a group. The PAC meets monthly, on the third Tuesday 5-7 PM at 33-00 Northern Blvd., LIC. Members communicate with each other between meetings via a listserv on the Internet. This is an active committee. Members are expected to attend all meetings. Submit your resume & a letter/e-mail stating why you wish to serve on the PAC and what skills or knowledge you would bring to the committee. Deadline: 12/31/07
http://capwiz.com/cidny/issues/alert/?alertid=10590951&type=SW&azip=10003&bzip=4704&show_alert=1 EPIC Expansion –the Medicare Rights Center, CIDNY, and other health and social service advocates from across the state, in a letter campaign launched yesterday to tell Governor Eliot Spitzer that New Yorkers with disabilities desperately need EPIC’s pharmaceutical coverage.
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3m0ja_dream_politics a The PSA created by Women’s Voices – Women Vote, (an organization whose goal is to “turn unmarried, uninvolved women into active voters who are influencing debate”) .includes a wheelchair user quite visibly in the mix was Those interested should leyt them know what you think.: info@wvwv.org or Women's Voices. Women Vote, 1707 L Street NW, (750) Washington, DC 20036 : 202-659-9570 Fax: 202-833-4362
http://www.cidny.org/content/Voting_Documents/People_with_Disabilities_Dont_Vote_Here_Nov. _07.pdf CIDNY 2007 Poll Site Accessibility Survey report Consumers and volunteers evaluated 50 polling sites in Manhattan and Queens on Election Day and found that 42 of them had at least one barrier to access that make voting difficult or impossible for a person with a disability.
http://www.cidny.org/content/Voting_Documents/DOJ_Memo_in_Support_-_Nov_2007.pdf DOJ wants full HAVA compliance in NYS for 2008 On 11/05/07 DOJ;s Civil Rights Division submitted memorandum supporting enforcement of HAVA in NYS as part of the ongoing lawsuit against the state for failure to meet HAVA deadlines. They believe NYS has been slow to act on HAVA, and that its noncompliance with the law is unacceptable. The document suggests NYS should provide accessible voting machines on a greater scale for the 02/08 Presidential Primary, and at least one accessible machine per polling site by the 09/08 Primary. DOJ wants NYS to, at minimum, meet federal HAVA standards or face the possibility of compliance being taken out of the state’s hands by the court.
http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=41710 FEMA and American Bar Association to Enhance Legal Services for Disaster Victims
http://www.nyhealth.gov/events/listening_forums/docs/report_2007-10-24.p o view the full report on the "People First Coordinated Care Listening Forums"
http://m1e.net/c?65930469-OkDUWo6XOJByw%402944798-9oivu.JOg/n4o The MTA is predicting a $300 million surplus next year. But they still want to raise fares on 86% of all trips. Working families already struggle to make it in New York, and now this?
Job Opening: Executive Director GRILC Graduation from an accredited college or University with an Bachelors Degree in Human Service or related field. Administers the affairs of the corporation including: Finances, programs, and personnel; Responsible for policy implementation, achievement of corporate goal and objectives, short and long-range planning, program development, staff training, public/community relations; & Serve as professional advisor to the board. Resumes to: GRILC, 61 Swan Street, Batavia, NY 14020 Deadline 12/10
EM Prentiss
Help build the Network in 2008, and increase civic participation of people with disabilities in NYC. Get your friends and associates involved. Visit www.dnnyc.net for more info, to join or renew membership, call 212-284-4160 (Lawrence Carter-Long).
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*new 12/07 Fri 6-8 PM, Sistahs in Search of Truth, Alliance, and Harmony Presents: Handi Pride: Spotlight on GLBT with Disabilities (The Center, 208 W. 13 St, 7-8 Aves) forum addressing issues on coming out, relationships, sex, and discrimination, as well as the lack of resources available to PWDs within the GLBT community. Come hear our stories, become educated as well as enlighten. Come share ideas as well as hear our personal experiences. Info: 212-479-7886
12/09 Sun PM DIA Holiday Party (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org
*new 12/11 Tues 1-4 PM, Brooklyn Systems Change Network (BSCN)Meeting (BCID, 2044 Ocean Ave.(B-3) Light refreshments & exciting discussion. RSVP & request accommodations, Braille, ASL interpreters ect, by 12/10, 718-998-3000, TTY 718-998-7406
12/12 Wed 10:30 AM B’klyn BP Disabilities Advisory Committee (BP Conf Room, 209 Joralemon St) RSVP Ingrid Alexander 718-802-3868 Fax: 718-802-3920 ialexander@brooklynbp.nyc.gov
12/12 Wed 1-4 PM: Mayoral-City Council Broadband Advisory Committee Public Hearing (Manhattan School of Music, Greenfield Hall, 120 Claremont Ave, 122 St) An opputunity to speak out on the importance of good, inexpensive broadband service Register to testify: 212.788.6975 or Kunal.Malhotra@council.nyc.gov.www.nycbroadband.blogspot.com
*new 12/12 Wed 4-6 PM Hearing Education Services & Vision Services Focus Group (UFT 52 Broadway - 19 floor) Services for Deaf/HOH & visually impaired students in NYC are in jeopardy. NYC BOE revamp/reorganize these crucial centralized programs that provide support, resources, and education by putting EVS & HES personnel and students under the control of individual school principals This will be a disservice to the students as many of the principals and their administration lack the knowledge/expertise to adequately provide the services these atudents need to succeed. Also principals will not want to foot the bill for the many services / technological equipment required Questions: Milton Williams 718-432-4300 or MWillia2@schools.nyc.gov
*new 12/13 Thu 5-7 PM, NAMI Bronx Families & Advocates: When the Criminal Justice & Mental Illness Systems Collide (Bx Psychiatric Center, Parker Building, 1500 Water Pl, First Floor) Hon. Matthew D’Emic
Brooklyn Mental Health Court Refreshments will be served RSVP: namibxfamlyadvoc@aol.com Paulina Magnetti or June Rodriques 718-862-3347
12/14 Fri Application deadline extended The We Are All Brooklyn (WAAB) Fellowship invites young professionals, between the ages of 25-40 years old, working or volunteering for community or faith-based organizations in Brooklyn to submit applications! http://www.waab.org/
*new 12/15 Sat 8:30 AM, Women of Color Breakfast in Support of Hillary Clinton for President (DC 37, 125 Barclay St, entrance on Murray St. fully accessible) Tickets: $50 per person (some available @ $25 for those with limited means) All tickets must be purchased in advance--no sales@ door. Further info & RSVP Trudy L. Mason: TLMpr@aol.com or 917-443-3315
*new 12/15 Sat 2 PM, Helping Hands for the disabled of NYC Holiday Party (Bronx) Fee $10.00 per person; the party is being held at an accessible location in the Bronx.: Call Alice at 718-728-0868 between 6 PM - Midnight
12/18 Tues 1 Subcommittees, 2-3:30 PM Man Boro President’s Disability Taskforce (1 Centre Street, 19 Floor South) RSVP by calling (212) 669-4453 or CBrown@manhattanbp.org
12/18 Tues 8:30 PM, NYS Dems 2008 Holiday Party! (Taj Lounge, 48 W 21 St., 5-6 Ave) $7 suggested contribution. CASH BAR RSVP in advance to Marie Parker at mariep@nydems.org / 212-725-8825. Brought to you by..NYS Dem Party, Democratic Leadership for the 21st Century, & NY Dem Lawyers Council, NYS Young Dems, Democracy for NYC & The Daily
12/21 Fri 10 AM NY Network for Action on Medicare & Social Security (NYNAMSS) (200 E 5 St at Third Ave) Molly 212-273-5260 mkrakowski@JASA.ORG
*new 01/07 Mon 7PM, An Evening of Music & Politics in support of Governor Bill Richardson for President of the United States.(Cutting Room, 19 W 24 St) Help celebrate his anticipated victory in Iowa, and cheer him on in the New Hampshire primary the next day. Light refreshments & cash bar. .Join us for an enlightening speaker, fantastic music and great conversation as we bring together Richardson supporters, undecideds and those interested in politics.
01/8-9, Emergency Preparedness, Response, & Recovery - Disability & Special Needs Technical Assistance Conference (Capital Hilton, Washington, DC) Gov’Horizons & Nat’l Organization on Disability's http://www.governmenthorizons.org/emergency-preparedness-and-response08.htm
01/10 Thurs 2 PM ESPA Distant Learning: Paratransit Eligibility 101 http://projectaction.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=ESPA_distance_learning_2008_para_elig_supplemental
*new 01/13 Sun PM DIA (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org
*new 01/15 NYFAHC (MS Society, 733 Third Avenue, 45-46 St)
*new 01/23 Voter registration deadline for 02/05/08 New York State Presidential Primary
01/23 ESPA Distant Learning Securing Funding for a New Travel Training Program info: http://projectaction.easterseals.com click on distant learning
01/24 2 PM ASL Tea Time Tour From New Yorker to Shrek: The Art of William Steig (The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave, 92 St) A light reception will follow the tour. This program is free. RSVP, by 1/18, required 212.423.3225, TTY 212.660.1515, or access@thejm.org.
01/25-28 Fri – Mon SILC Congress 2008: collaboration|innovation working together like never before (New Orleans, LA)
02/05 ESPA Distant Learning Selected Topics in Paratransit Eligibility: Conditional Eligibility info: http://projectaction.easterseals.com click on distant learning
04/21-24 Mon-Thurs, The 2008 Mobility Planning Services) Institute (Renaissance Wash Hotel, DC) teams of leaders from the disability world & transportation share information & strategies to improve access to transportation http://projectaction.easterseals.com
*new 02/10 Sun PM DIA (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org
*new 03/09 Sun PM DIA (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org
*new 04/13 Sun PM DIA (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org
*new 04/26-30, ADAPT Community: 25 Years of Activism and Counting. Grassroots Actions..(Washington DC) Info www.adapt25.org , 512-442-0252 or 303-733-9324
*new 05/01, ADAPT Community: 25th Anniversary BBQ, Exhibition and Show..(Washington DC) Food, music, exhibits, history, multi-media, faces and voices from the ADAPT past Info www.adapt25.org , 512-442-0252 or 303-733-9324
04/27-28 Families Together in New York State Annual Conference YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: (Marriott Hotel, Albany, NY)
05/12-14 Mon-Wed, National ADA Symposium & Expo: Conference on the ADA and Disability Law (St. Louis, MO) http://www.adasymposium.org/
*new 05/18 Sun PM DIA (Selis Manor, 135 W. 23 St, 6-7 Aves) Tel/Fax 718-261-3737 www.disabledinaction.org 06/22, 07/20 (if needed), 0817 (if needed), 09/07, 10/05, 11/02, 12/07 (Party
recurrent 3rd Wed of the month 2-3 PM, Men's Group (BCID, 2044 Ocean Ave, Suite B-3, Ave O & P) 718-998-3000
recurrent every Fri 6:30-8:30 PM Wheelchair Dancing (Chelsea Studios, 151 W. 26th St, 6th fl. (6th – 7th Ave) Rubin www.wheelchairdancesportusa.org wdsportusa@hotmail.com or 212 245 0004
recurrent last Sat of the month Free Legal Clinic:: 2-2:30 for appointments -5 PM, Free Legal Clinic (PSGDC, 1 Prospect Park W & President St, entry on President. go down ramp at the green awning) Riley MacLeod 718-499-7701 x137.AAR: drop off at 1 Prospect Park W.)
Duane Reade Accessibility Problems? Gavin Kearney 888-342-3428.or gkearney@nylpi.org
Empire State Voting Watch Dogs - NY Disabled Getting Equal Voting Access (NYDGEVA We are a coalition of consumers, advocates and a professional organization which seeks to resolve barriers impeding equal voting access for New Yorkers with disabilities of any kind. Our coalition name is NY Disabled Getting Equal Voting Access (NYDGEVA). NYDGEVA's goal is to bring all aspects of the disability community together to become eduated and mobilized to work on voting accessibility issues. It was further agreed that the best way to communicate would be by forming a Yahoo Group. If you are interested in insuring the voting rights of New Yorkers with disabilities, please join our group. Subscribe & join by emailing: jadler54-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
ADA Watch & Road to Freedom Bus Tour www.roadtofreedom.org http://adawatch.smugmug.com/gallery/2925333
http://www.esight.org/link.cfm?n=1259 NYLPI’s Opportunity & Access Survey to find out what barriers to services and to physical settings are most important to members of our community. They want to hear from New Yorkers with disabilities who don't regularly contact them. NYLPI is a public interest law office that serves New York City residents with disabilities regarding disability-based discrimination and access issues.
VOLUNTEER -The Big Apple Greeters is seeking volunteers to welcome visitors to New York City and to show them around to places of interest with which the volunteer is familiar, suggest things to see and do, etc. Each visit lasts between 2-4 hours and volunteers are required to do 12 visits a year. People with foreign language skills are in particular demand. For more information and to apply, contact Patricia Ryan at (212) 669-7308.
http://onlineresources.wnylc.net/online_training.asp click on new -Medicare Part D - Part I - (2008) Basics About Part D & Medicare Part D - Part 2 (2008) -- Using the Online Plan-finder for 2008 Enrollment, Part D Plans in New York State, More on Medicaid and EPIC and Part D –Online Medicare Part D trainings Since we are in the midst of the short annual enrollment period (11/15/07 - 12/31/07) for the 2008 year, this is an opportunity to catch up on how the program works, the landscape for 2008 and quickly enroll your clients. The trainings are FREE, but if you want CLE credit, there is a charge. Registration is required even for the free trainings
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/CertificationandComplianc/Downloads/SFFList.pdf CMS’ first ranking of the nation's poor-performing nursing homes. Release of the national list of facilities, identified as special focus facilities (SFFs), is expected to offer individuals seeking long-term health care services, and their families, powerful new information when choosing nursing homes.
http://www.handicapability.org/computers.html FREE Computers for Visually residents of the US & Canada) TCPI provides computers (monitor, keyboard, CD-ROM, modem, speakers, & necessary software) free of charge (a $100 charge to cover packing, shipping, and replacement parts) . Donated computers are refurbished by North Texas PC Users Group volunteers. They are an official Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher (MAR).
MTA NYCT Paratransit Advisory Committee (PAC) – applicants should have working familiarity with ADA transportation regulations, good analytical skills and be able to review or formulate policies / procedures and offer suggestions for improving service and be able to work cooperatively in a group. The PAC meets monthly, on the third Tuesday 5-7 PM at 33-00 Northern Blvd., LIC. Members communicate with each other between meetings via a listserv on the Internet. This is an active committee. Members are expected to attend all meetings. Submit your resume & a letter/e-mail stating why you wish to serve on the PAC and what skills or knowledge you would bring to the committee. Deadline: 12/31/07
http://capwiz.com/cidny/issues/alert/?alertid=10590951&type=SW&azip=10003&bzip=4704&show_alert=1 EPIC Expansion –the Medicare Rights Center, CIDNY, and other health and social service advocates from across the state, in a letter campaign launched yesterday to tell Governor Eliot Spitzer that New Yorkers with disabilities desperately need EPIC’s pharmaceutical coverage.
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3m0ja_dream_politics a The PSA created by Women’s Voices – Women Vote, (an organization whose goal is to “turn unmarried, uninvolved women into active voters who are influencing debate”) .includes a wheelchair user quite visibly in the mix was Those interested should leyt them know what you think.: info@wvwv.org or Women's Voices. Women Vote, 1707 L Street NW, (750) Washington, DC 20036 : 202-659-9570 Fax: 202-833-4362
http://www.cidny.org/content/Voting_Documents/People_with_Disabilities_Dont_Vote_Here_Nov. _07.pdf CIDNY 2007 Poll Site Accessibility Survey report Consumers and volunteers evaluated 50 polling sites in Manhattan and Queens on Election Day and found that 42 of them had at least one barrier to access that make voting difficult or impossible for a person with a disability.
http://www.cidny.org/content/Voting_Documents/DOJ_Memo_in_Support_-_Nov_2007.pdf DOJ wants full HAVA compliance in NYS for 2008 On 11/05/07 DOJ;s Civil Rights Division submitted memorandum supporting enforcement of HAVA in NYS as part of the ongoing lawsuit against the state for failure to meet HAVA deadlines. They believe NYS has been slow to act on HAVA, and that its noncompliance with the law is unacceptable. The document suggests NYS should provide accessible voting machines on a greater scale for the 02/08 Presidential Primary, and at least one accessible machine per polling site by the 09/08 Primary. DOJ wants NYS to, at minimum, meet federal HAVA standards or face the possibility of compliance being taken out of the state’s hands by the court.
http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=41710 FEMA and American Bar Association to Enhance Legal Services for Disaster Victims
http://www.nyhealth.gov/events/listening_forums/docs/report_2007-10-24.p o view the full report on the "People First Coordinated Care Listening Forums"
http://m1e.net/c?65930469-OkDUWo6XOJByw%402944798-9oivu.JOg/n4o The MTA is predicting a $300 million surplus next year. But they still want to raise fares on 86% of all trips. Working families already struggle to make it in New York, and now this?
Job Opening: Executive Director GRILC Graduation from an accredited college or University with an Bachelors Degree in Human Service or related field. Administers the affairs of the corporation including: Finances, programs, and personnel; Responsible for policy implementation, achievement of corporate goal and objectives, short and long-range planning, program development, staff training, public/community relations; & Serve as professional advisor to the board. Resumes to: GRILC, 61 Swan Street, Batavia, NY 14020 Deadline 12/10
EM Prentiss
Help build the Network in 2008, and increase civic participation of people with disabilities in NYC. Get your friends and associates involved. Visit www.dnnyc.net for more info, to join or renew membership, call 212-284-4160 (Lawrence Carter-Long).
Yahoo! Groups Links
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Tuesday, November 27, 2007
December Seventh
December Seventh
CUNY Coalition for Students With Disabilities CCSD
Please note that next meeting of the CUNY Coalition for Students with
Disabilities (CCSD) will take place on December seventh. The meeting
will be hosted by John Jay College of Criminal Justice...located at 445
w. 59th street (Between 9th and 10th avenues).
We will start @ 1:00 p.m.
CUNY Coalition for Students With Disabilities CCSD
Please note that next meeting of the CUNY Coalition for Students with
Disabilities (CCSD) will take place on December seventh. The meeting
will be hosted by John Jay College of Criminal Justice...located at 445
w. 59th street (Between 9th and 10th avenues).
We will start @ 1:00 p.m.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Students with Disabilities May Face Anxiety in the Classroom
All children encounter anxiety in returning to school. For children with special needs, however, their anxiety is often increased as they are particularly concerned about acceptance, integration, prejudice, discrimination and even the possibility of being bullied.
It is important for teachers, counselors, and educational assistants to recognize these concerns and to teach all of their students the values of acceptance and advocacy.
Some special needs students are separated into special classes and these separate classes are often negatively identified by other students. In the past, these special classes
have often functioned as warehousing units that did not provide any meaningful education. Today however, many of these separate classes often provide special needs students the skills they require to adapt successfully to mainstream society. Forward thinking educators are working diligently to integrate these students effectively into the classroom.
Progressive educational strategies teach the skills which allow many students with disabilities to successfully overcome barriers and adjust to mainstream life. Many of these students not only graduate from school but benefit from postgraduate educational and subsequent employment.
In reality, many schools do not have adequate personnel and facilities to effectively educate students with disabilities. In many jurisdictions, teaching assistants for special needs
students are being cut back and some special needs educators are forced to look after the needs of two or more children. This is a tragic circumstance, as children with special needs often require individual attention if they are going to benefit from their education.
For example, children with autism can often make huge strides with the support of ABA therapy, which is a learning therapy that can only be effectively administered on a one to one basis. This educational benefit has a long term positive outcome, as students
with autism who receive this support have a 70% opportunity of becoming fully integrated and independent. Without this specialized learning therapy, students with autism have
drastically reduced possibilities and may be destined for a life on welfare or institutionalization. The long term costs far exceed the short term expenses of providing ABA therapy to those who require this support.
Special needs students also worry about acceptance by their classmates. They are often accepted by their teachers and fellow students, and many of them receive notes and other supports; however many fail to develop friendships and social bonds. As a result, these students spend their weekends and holidays with their parents and other members of their families. This is particularly difficult for teenagers who are very concerned with fitting in and social networking. Progressive teachers and educational assistants structure friendship circles to address this problem. With the permission of their parents, fellow students who are sensitive and caring are contacted and told of the barriers special needs students encounter. They are encouraged to contact students with special needs regularly. They
are counseled to maintain frequent phone contact and to socialize with them a few times a week by going to a movie, shopping at a mall, engaging in recreation, and going to parties. Although these friendship networks are often artificial in the beginning, in many cases, they develop into lifelong friendships. These structured friendship circles have permitted special needs students to be effectively integrated and enjoy a rich social life. One of the essential lessons in life is to teach all individuals the value of accepting those who are different.
More students with special needs that ever are now being admitted into the school system but they must be effectively educated and integrated in order to benefit. To deprive special
needs students of the most progressive educational supports makes them mere spectators in the classroom. This would be a tragic waste of time, effort, and resources. There are cut backs taking place in many educational districts across the country and this has negative implications for all students; however, the implications for students with special needs are particularly cruel, as cut backs deny them the resources to maximize their potential. Many of these individuals can prosper if the supports are in place but if they are deprived of these benefits, their educational experience may become meaningless.
We are fortunate to live in a society which has been described as one of the leading nations in the world. The benefits which we enjoy as a result of living in this country should also flow equally to students who have special needs.
It is important for teachers, counselors, and educational assistants to recognize these concerns and to teach all of their students the values of acceptance and advocacy.
Some special needs students are separated into special classes and these separate classes are often negatively identified by other students. In the past, these special classes
have often functioned as warehousing units that did not provide any meaningful education. Today however, many of these separate classes often provide special needs students the skills they require to adapt successfully to mainstream society. Forward thinking educators are working diligently to integrate these students effectively into the classroom.
Progressive educational strategies teach the skills which allow many students with disabilities to successfully overcome barriers and adjust to mainstream life. Many of these students not only graduate from school but benefit from postgraduate educational and subsequent employment.
In reality, many schools do not have adequate personnel and facilities to effectively educate students with disabilities. In many jurisdictions, teaching assistants for special needs
students are being cut back and some special needs educators are forced to look after the needs of two or more children. This is a tragic circumstance, as children with special needs often require individual attention if they are going to benefit from their education.
For example, children with autism can often make huge strides with the support of ABA therapy, which is a learning therapy that can only be effectively administered on a one to one basis. This educational benefit has a long term positive outcome, as students
with autism who receive this support have a 70% opportunity of becoming fully integrated and independent. Without this specialized learning therapy, students with autism have
drastically reduced possibilities and may be destined for a life on welfare or institutionalization. The long term costs far exceed the short term expenses of providing ABA therapy to those who require this support.
Special needs students also worry about acceptance by their classmates. They are often accepted by their teachers and fellow students, and many of them receive notes and other supports; however many fail to develop friendships and social bonds. As a result, these students spend their weekends and holidays with their parents and other members of their families. This is particularly difficult for teenagers who are very concerned with fitting in and social networking. Progressive teachers and educational assistants structure friendship circles to address this problem. With the permission of their parents, fellow students who are sensitive and caring are contacted and told of the barriers special needs students encounter. They are encouraged to contact students with special needs regularly. They
are counseled to maintain frequent phone contact and to socialize with them a few times a week by going to a movie, shopping at a mall, engaging in recreation, and going to parties. Although these friendship networks are often artificial in the beginning, in many cases, they develop into lifelong friendships. These structured friendship circles have permitted special needs students to be effectively integrated and enjoy a rich social life. One of the essential lessons in life is to teach all individuals the value of accepting those who are different.
More students with special needs that ever are now being admitted into the school system but they must be effectively educated and integrated in order to benefit. To deprive special
needs students of the most progressive educational supports makes them mere spectators in the classroom. This would be a tragic waste of time, effort, and resources. There are cut backs taking place in many educational districts across the country and this has negative implications for all students; however, the implications for students with special needs are particularly cruel, as cut backs deny them the resources to maximize their potential. Many of these individuals can prosper if the supports are in place but if they are deprived of these benefits, their educational experience may become meaningless.
We are fortunate to live in a society which has been described as one of the leading nations in the world. The benefits which we enjoy as a result of living in this country should also flow equally to students who have special needs.
Friday, August 24, 2007
EVENT UPDATE: Voting Machine Demo: Selis Manor Aug 29 4-7pm
Join the NYC Board of Elections and The Disabilities Network of NYC for a free demonstration of the new accessible ballot marking device used while voting on Wednesday, August 29th from 4-7pm in the auditorium at VISIONS at Selis Manor, 135 W. 23rd Street (between 6th & 7th Avenues).
To RSVP please call: 212-251-4092. When you RSVP, please let us know if you require any of the following: Braille, Large-Print Materials, American Sign Language Interpreters, Assistive Listening System or any other reasonable accommodation.
These demonstrations are intended to reach out to voters with disabilities, seniors and any other voters interested in learning more about the new ballot marking devices. We thank VISIONS at Selis Manor for use of their auditorium for this important event.
“The demonstrations will include an opportunity for voters to try out the new ... device. BMDs assist voters in marking their ballot using a touch screen, keyboard, audio headset, sip & puff device or rocker paddles. This allows voters with disabilities to vote without assistance and in secrecy,” stated the Board of Elections in the City of New York Executive Director John Ravitz.
"Voting is the most fundamental, the most basic of civic rights," said Lawrence Carter-Long, Director of Advocacy for the Disabilities Network of NYC. "All other rights stem from who we vote for. Until voting is completely accessible and voters with disabilities are familar with the new devices we will not take our proper place in the decision making process in New York City. The Disabilities Network urges everyone to become comfortable with and make use of accessible voting machines in upcoming primaries and elections. We must not only vote, but we must be seen voting. Otherwise we allow the "out of sight out of mind" mentality to continue."
The Board of Elections (BOE) will place ballot marking devices in each Borough Office for voters to use in casting their vote in both the September 18, Primary Elections and the November, General Elections. In each Borough Office, the Board has designated a room that has been assessed by the Board’s Poll Site Accessibility Unit to ensure that it meets the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and HAVA accessibility standards. The BMDs which were manufactured by Avante International Technology, Inc. will be available in these Borough Office pollsites, with the exception of Staten Island who has no uncontested primaries.
NOTE: The BMDs are not actual voting machines. They will assist the voter to mark the ballot; but they do not count the votes. Those ballots that are cast using the BMDs will be counted by hand in a manner to preserve anonymity of the ballots when the Board counts all paper ballots eight days after the Primary Election.
Lawrence Carter-Long
Director of Advocacy Disabilities Network of NYC
c/o United Way
2 Park Avenue, 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10016
Lawrence@dnnyc.net
http://dnnyc.net tel:
mobile: 212-251-4092
917-684-3235
Always have my latest info Want a signature like this?
To RSVP please call: 212-251-4092. When you RSVP, please let us know if you require any of the following: Braille, Large-Print Materials, American Sign Language Interpreters, Assistive Listening System or any other reasonable accommodation.
These demonstrations are intended to reach out to voters with disabilities, seniors and any other voters interested in learning more about the new ballot marking devices. We thank VISIONS at Selis Manor for use of their auditorium for this important event.
“The demonstrations will include an opportunity for voters to try out the new ... device. BMDs assist voters in marking their ballot using a touch screen, keyboard, audio headset, sip & puff device or rocker paddles. This allows voters with disabilities to vote without assistance and in secrecy,” stated the Board of Elections in the City of New York Executive Director John Ravitz.
"Voting is the most fundamental, the most basic of civic rights," said Lawrence Carter-Long, Director of Advocacy for the Disabilities Network of NYC. "All other rights stem from who we vote for. Until voting is completely accessible and voters with disabilities are familar with the new devices we will not take our proper place in the decision making process in New York City. The Disabilities Network urges everyone to become comfortable with and make use of accessible voting machines in upcoming primaries and elections. We must not only vote, but we must be seen voting. Otherwise we allow the "out of sight out of mind" mentality to continue."
The Board of Elections (BOE) will place ballot marking devices in each Borough Office for voters to use in casting their vote in both the September 18, Primary Elections and the November, General Elections. In each Borough Office, the Board has designated a room that has been assessed by the Board’s Poll Site Accessibility Unit to ensure that it meets the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and HAVA accessibility standards. The BMDs which were manufactured by Avante International Technology, Inc. will be available in these Borough Office pollsites, with the exception of Staten Island who has no uncontested primaries.
NOTE: The BMDs are not actual voting machines. They will assist the voter to mark the ballot; but they do not count the votes. Those ballots that are cast using the BMDs will be counted by hand in a manner to preserve anonymity of the ballots when the Board counts all paper ballots eight days after the Primary Election.
Lawrence Carter-Long
Director of Advocacy Disabilities Network of NYC
c/o United Way
2 Park Avenue, 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10016
Lawrence@dnnyc.net
http://dnnyc.net tel:
mobile: 212-251-4092
917-684-3235
Always have my latest info Want a signature like this?
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
ABILITIES EXPO
Hi everyone,
As many of you know that ABILITIES EXPO (New Jersey Convention Center, Edison, NJ) will be held from April 27 to April 29.
Exhibits, Free Educational Workshops, Special Events. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore hundreds of products and services for people with disabilities. For more information, call 1-800-385-3085
or go to www.abilitiesexpo.com .
DIA finally got opportunity to get the buses to go to NJ from NYC.
If you want to go by school bus with a group on 4/28, call Marty Sesmer 212-684-6287 for details.
Send check, money order, or cash for $10 (payable to DIA at 332 East 29th Street, # 5A, NY, NY 10016). It is $10 charge for your PCA.
Reservations accept on a first-come, first-served basis! Space is limited.
There are 3 days left! Hurry up!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See what's free at AOL.com.
As many of you know that ABILITIES EXPO (New Jersey Convention Center, Edison, NJ) will be held from April 27 to April 29.
Exhibits, Free Educational Workshops, Special Events. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore hundreds of products and services for people with disabilities. For more information, call 1-800-385-3085
or go to www.abilitiesexpo.com .
DIA finally got opportunity to get the buses to go to NJ from NYC.
If you want to go by school bus with a group on 4/28, call Marty Sesmer 212-684-6287 for details.
Send check, money order, or cash for $10 (payable to DIA at 332 East 29th Street, # 5A, NY, NY 10016). It is $10 charge for your PCA.
Reservations accept on a first-come, first-served basis! Space is limited.
There are 3 days left! Hurry up!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See what's free at AOL.com.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
CMS Technical Assistance Database
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) - Launches Technical Assistance Database
Good news! CMS has just launched an exciting new database to showcase the efforts of many of the technical assistance providers serving CMS' grantees. The "Technical Assistance Database" will allow you to see the wide range of activities that support and enrich the grantees under the New Freedom Initiative. The database will contain important information regarding existing and upcoming research products, conferences, and significant meetings as well as a wide variety of toolkits, surveys, and policy briefs, intended to be of interested to the disability and long-term care community.
All stakeholders will be able to view the database. CMS grantees, however, will be given access passcodes to enable them to post requests for technical assistance to the vast cadre of experts supporting CMS' initiatives. To access the Technical Assistance Database, please go to www.DEHPG.net. The user name for the database is "TAdatabase" and the "passcode" is Readonly#1.
Grantees are strongly encouraged to utilize the Technical Assistance Database. To request a passcode, please e-mail your request to the CMS Resource Box at TAdatabase@cms.hhs.gov. Please indicate your name, type of grant you represent, and your phone number in the e-mail. In the near future, CMS will offer a training sessions, customized for the NFI grantees, to demonstrate the vast uses of this robust database. We encourage you to request your passcode soon, so that you can avail yourself of this dynamic training. Details regarding the trainings will be forthcoming.
Good news! CMS has just launched an exciting new database to showcase the efforts of many of the technical assistance providers serving CMS' grantees. The "Technical Assistance Database" will allow you to see the wide range of activities that support and enrich the grantees under the New Freedom Initiative. The database will contain important information regarding existing and upcoming research products, conferences, and significant meetings as well as a wide variety of toolkits, surveys, and policy briefs, intended to be of interested to the disability and long-term care community.
All stakeholders will be able to view the database. CMS grantees, however, will be given access passcodes to enable them to post requests for technical assistance to the vast cadre of experts supporting CMS' initiatives. To access the Technical Assistance Database, please go to www.DEHPG.net. The user name for the database is "TAdatabase" and the "passcode" is Readonly#1.
Grantees are strongly encouraged to utilize the Technical Assistance Database. To request a passcode, please e-mail your request to the CMS Resource Box at TAdatabase@cms.hhs.gov. Please indicate your name, type of grant you represent, and your phone number in the e-mail. In the near future, CMS will offer a training sessions, customized for the NFI grantees, to demonstrate the vast uses of this robust database. We encourage you to request your passcode soon, so that you can avail yourself of this dynamic training. Details regarding the trainings will be forthcoming.
CMS Technical Assistance Database
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) - Launches Technical Assistance Database
Good news! CMS has just launched an exciting new database to showcase the efforts of many of the technical assistance providers serving CMS' grantees. The "Technical Assistance Database" will allow you to see the wide range of activities that support and enrich the grantees under the New Freedom Initiative. The database will contain important information regarding existing and upcoming research products, conferences, and significant meetings as well as a wide variety of toolkits, surveys, and policy briefs, intended to be of interested to the disability and long-term care community.
All stakeholders will be able to view the database. CMS grantees, however, will be given access passcodes to enable them to post requests for technical assistance to the vast cadre of experts supporting CMS' initiatives. To access the Technical Assistance Database, please go to www.DEHPG.net. The user name for the database is "TAdatabase" and the "passcode" is Readonly#1.
Grantees are strongly encouraged to utilize the Technical Assistance Database. To request a passcode, please e-mail your request to the CMS Resource Box at TAdatabase@cms.hhs.gov. Please indicate your name, type of grant you represent, and your phone number in the e-mail. In the near future, CMS will offer a training sessions, customized for the NFI grantees, to demonstrate the vast uses of this robust database. We encourage you to request your passcode soon, so that you can avail yourself of this dynamic training. Details regarding the trainings will be forthcoming.
Good news! CMS has just launched an exciting new database to showcase the efforts of many of the technical assistance providers serving CMS' grantees. The "Technical Assistance Database" will allow you to see the wide range of activities that support and enrich the grantees under the New Freedom Initiative. The database will contain important information regarding existing and upcoming research products, conferences, and significant meetings as well as a wide variety of toolkits, surveys, and policy briefs, intended to be of interested to the disability and long-term care community.
All stakeholders will be able to view the database. CMS grantees, however, will be given access passcodes to enable them to post requests for technical assistance to the vast cadre of experts supporting CMS' initiatives. To access the Technical Assistance Database, please go to www.DEHPG.net. The user name for the database is "TAdatabase" and the "passcode" is Readonly#1.
Grantees are strongly encouraged to utilize the Technical Assistance Database. To request a passcode, please e-mail your request to the CMS Resource Box at TAdatabase@cms.hhs.gov. Please indicate your name, type of grant you represent, and your phone number in the e-mail. In the near future, CMS will offer a training sessions, customized for the NFI grantees, to demonstrate the vast uses of this robust database. We encourage you to request your passcode soon, so that you can avail yourself of this dynamic training. Details regarding the trainings will be forthcoming.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
CUNY Student Express: State Budget Alert
CUNY STUDENT EXPRESS
February 27, 2007
NEW YORK STATE BUDGET ALERT: TIME TO INVEST IN CUNY
Visit www.supportcuny.org
As you know, the 2007-2008 New York State Executive Budget proposed by the Governor is currently under review by The New York State Legislature. Significant operating and capital support for CUNY is included, which represents the best starting point in many years. We need your help now to communicate to State legislators how the budget can be further enhanced to allow CUNY to hire more full-time faculty, strengthen academic and student support, and library services, and more fully meet technology and capital needs. Please visit www.supportcuny.org today to email your views on the State budget. Draft letters are provided and we encourage you to take the time to send your own.
A one-page fact sheet on the State budget is included below. You can read Chancellor Matthew Goldstein's testimony before the legislative fiscal committees at www.supportcuny.org. It is important to note that after one year, 90% of all CUNY graduates remain in New York State. After ten years, over 80% stay here as taxpaying residents, providing a stable tax base of educated citizens who repay the investment made in their education many times over through a lifetime of taxes paid to state, city, and federal coffers. The CUNY Compact, which enlists public and private partners to help finance the CUNY colleges, provides the long term basis for support. The immediate need, however, is for you to be heard now, while the legislative review process is still at work. State leaders will decide on revenue targets and available funds by March 1 and then work towards the adoption of a budget by the end of March. Please visit www.supportcuny.org today. Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Jay Hershenson
Senior Vice Chancellor for University Relations and
Secretary of the Board of Trustees
The City University of New York
2007-2008 State Budget Priorities
Senior College Operating Budget Gap $24.3 million
While the State Executive Budget provides additional operating aid, it does not provide sufficient funding to cover all of the approved senior college Master Plan initiatives. Given the University's need for full-time faculty and the resources required to support the highest enrollment in 31 years, additional support is warranted. The senior colleges need strengthened undergraduate and graduate programs, expanded research opportunities, and enhanced academic and student support.
State Aid for Community Colleges $5.0 million
CUNY community colleges need base aid funding of $2,650 per FTE, an increase of $125. The Executive Budget recommends a state aid per FTE increase of $100 ($2,625) for the community colleges. This base aid increase, valued at $2.0 million, will assist the University in covering increased mandatory costs at the community colleges. In addition, the University is seeking $3.0 million in additional support to the community colleges in order to provide for priorities outlined in the University's Master Plan. These critical initiatives include additional full-time faculty, library support, and student services enhancements in areas such as counseling, child care, and services to students with disabilities.
Senior College Capital Budget $89.2 million
The Executive Budget does not include all of the additional funds requested by the University in FY2007-2008. The primary need is $50 million in continued funding for the NIT/Information Systems & Administrative Applications project (the University's Enterprise Resource Planning Initiative). Secondary needs include: $24.2 million to address cost escalation increases due to recent economic changes for projects already in construction, including Brooklyn College's West Quad building and City College's School of Architecture; $10 million for the Certificates of Occupancy Initiative that ensures all CUNY facilities continue to be in compliance with Building Department regulations; and $5 million to complete the Visitors' Center for the Louis Armstrong House Museum and Archives at Queens College.
Community College Capital Budget $8.3 million
The State Executive Budget does not fund all of the needs requested by the University in FY 2007-2008, such as: $2.5 million in continued funding for the NIT/Information Systems & Administrative Applications project (the University's Enterprise Resource Planning Initiative); $2.5 million for the Certificates of Occupancy Initiative that ensures all CUNY facilities continue to be in compliance with Building Department regulations; and $3.3 million for roof replacement and to provide backflow prevention devices required at Bronx Community College.
Financial Aid
The Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is a critical safety net that allows financially disadvantaged students to attend the University. Over 64,000 of CUNY's undergraduate, degree-seeking students received TAP funding. The University strongly recommends that any modifications to state financial aid programs should be need-based in order to assist those students and families with greatest hardship.
February 27, 2007
NEW YORK STATE BUDGET ALERT: TIME TO INVEST IN CUNY
Visit www.supportcuny.org
As you know, the 2007-2008 New York State Executive Budget proposed by the Governor is currently under review by The New York State Legislature. Significant operating and capital support for CUNY is included, which represents the best starting point in many years. We need your help now to communicate to State legislators how the budget can be further enhanced to allow CUNY to hire more full-time faculty, strengthen academic and student support, and library services, and more fully meet technology and capital needs. Please visit www.supportcuny.org today to email your views on the State budget. Draft letters are provided and we encourage you to take the time to send your own.
A one-page fact sheet on the State budget is included below. You can read Chancellor Matthew Goldstein's testimony before the legislative fiscal committees at www.supportcuny.org. It is important to note that after one year, 90% of all CUNY graduates remain in New York State. After ten years, over 80% stay here as taxpaying residents, providing a stable tax base of educated citizens who repay the investment made in their education many times over through a lifetime of taxes paid to state, city, and federal coffers. The CUNY Compact, which enlists public and private partners to help finance the CUNY colleges, provides the long term basis for support. The immediate need, however, is for you to be heard now, while the legislative review process is still at work. State leaders will decide on revenue targets and available funds by March 1 and then work towards the adoption of a budget by the end of March. Please visit www.supportcuny.org today. Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Jay Hershenson
Senior Vice Chancellor for University Relations and
Secretary of the Board of Trustees
The City University of New York
2007-2008 State Budget Priorities
Senior College Operating Budget Gap $24.3 million
While the State Executive Budget provides additional operating aid, it does not provide sufficient funding to cover all of the approved senior college Master Plan initiatives. Given the University's need for full-time faculty and the resources required to support the highest enrollment in 31 years, additional support is warranted. The senior colleges need strengthened undergraduate and graduate programs, expanded research opportunities, and enhanced academic and student support.
State Aid for Community Colleges $5.0 million
CUNY community colleges need base aid funding of $2,650 per FTE, an increase of $125. The Executive Budget recommends a state aid per FTE increase of $100 ($2,625) for the community colleges. This base aid increase, valued at $2.0 million, will assist the University in covering increased mandatory costs at the community colleges. In addition, the University is seeking $3.0 million in additional support to the community colleges in order to provide for priorities outlined in the University's Master Plan. These critical initiatives include additional full-time faculty, library support, and student services enhancements in areas such as counseling, child care, and services to students with disabilities.
Senior College Capital Budget $89.2 million
The Executive Budget does not include all of the additional funds requested by the University in FY2007-2008. The primary need is $50 million in continued funding for the NIT/Information Systems & Administrative Applications project (the University's Enterprise Resource Planning Initiative). Secondary needs include: $24.2 million to address cost escalation increases due to recent economic changes for projects already in construction, including Brooklyn College's West Quad building and City College's School of Architecture; $10 million for the Certificates of Occupancy Initiative that ensures all CUNY facilities continue to be in compliance with Building Department regulations; and $5 million to complete the Visitors' Center for the Louis Armstrong House Museum and Archives at Queens College.
Community College Capital Budget $8.3 million
The State Executive Budget does not fund all of the needs requested by the University in FY 2007-2008, such as: $2.5 million in continued funding for the NIT/Information Systems & Administrative Applications project (the University's Enterprise Resource Planning Initiative); $2.5 million for the Certificates of Occupancy Initiative that ensures all CUNY facilities continue to be in compliance with Building Department regulations; and $3.3 million for roof replacement and to provide backflow prevention devices required at Bronx Community College.
Financial Aid
The Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is a critical safety net that allows financially disadvantaged students to attend the University. Over 64,000 of CUNY's undergraduate, degree-seeking students received TAP funding. The University strongly recommends that any modifications to state financial aid programs should be need-based in order to assist those students and families with greatest hardship.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
ICD ART SHOW
ICD ART SHOW
ICD-International Center for the Disabled and its Client Advisory Board announce the opening of Expression Through Art, an art exhibit created by clients of ICD in celebration of ICD’s 90th Anniversary. Expression Through Art features the work of artists of diverse backgrounds and reflects their varied life experiences. Some of the exhibited artists were creating art prior to the onset of disability and others found art as a result of their disability.
The show is open to the public at ICD, 340 E24th Street, 2nd floor, between 1st and 2nd Avenues in Manhattan, Monday to Friday from 8am-1pm, and will run until June. For more information call 212-585-6070.
ICD offers outpatient rehabilitation services, including a mental health clinic, brain injury services, addiction recovery services, physical medicine, and rehabilitation, physical and occupational therapy, and primary medical care.
ICD-International Center for the Disabled and its Client Advisory Board announce the opening of Expression Through Art, an art exhibit created by clients of ICD in celebration of ICD’s 90th Anniversary. Expression Through Art features the work of artists of diverse backgrounds and reflects their varied life experiences. Some of the exhibited artists were creating art prior to the onset of disability and others found art as a result of their disability.
The show is open to the public at ICD, 340 E24th Street, 2nd floor, between 1st and 2nd Avenues in Manhattan, Monday to Friday from 8am-1pm, and will run until June. For more information call 212-585-6070.
ICD offers outpatient rehabilitation services, including a mental health clinic, brain injury services, addiction recovery services, physical medicine, and rehabilitation, physical and occupational therapy, and primary medical care.
Friday, February 23, 2007
E Alert - Letter
This year the spring semester final exam period overlaps with a religious holiday. As such, there may be students who are unable to take exams from late afternoon on Tuesday, May 22 through the evening of Thursday, May 24. New York State law requires that we provide an equivalent makeup opportunity for students who miss exams for religious observance.
Accordingly, we are designating Tuesday, May 29 and Wednesday, May 30 as makeup exam days. Specifically, makeups for final exams originally scheduled in a particular time slot on Wednesday, May 23 will be administered in that same time slot on Tuesday, May 29. Makeups for finals scheduled on Thursday, May 24 in a particular time slot will be administered in that same time slot on Wednesday, May 30.
Given that May 28 is Memorial Day and May 31 Commencement, there are no time slots available to designate a general period for administering makeups for exams originally scheduled late afternoon or evening on Tuesday, May 22. Makeups for these exams will have to be arranged on a case-by-case basis between faculty and students.
Thank you for your cooperation.
------------------------------------------------------------
To manage your subscription to Brooklyn College eAlerts, please visit https://websql.brooklyn.cuny.edu/eAlerts
Brooklyn College is located at 2900 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11210. Phone: 718-951-5000
Accordingly, we are designating Tuesday, May 29 and Wednesday, May 30 as makeup exam days. Specifically, makeups for final exams originally scheduled in a particular time slot on Wednesday, May 23 will be administered in that same time slot on Tuesday, May 29. Makeups for finals scheduled on Thursday, May 24 in a particular time slot will be administered in that same time slot on Wednesday, May 30.
Given that May 28 is Memorial Day and May 31 Commencement, there are no time slots available to designate a general period for administering makeups for exams originally scheduled late afternoon or evening on Tuesday, May 22. Makeups for these exams will have to be arranged on a case-by-case basis between faculty and students.
Thank you for your cooperation.
------------------------------------------------------------
To manage your subscription to Brooklyn College eAlerts, please visit https://websql.brooklyn.cuny.edu/eAlerts
Brooklyn College is located at 2900 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11210. Phone: 718-951-5000
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Vocational Rehabilitation in Employment Update: Self-Employment as a Customized Employment Outcome
Some people with disabilities will consider self-employment as a career option due to a lack of available employment opportunities in the community. However, difficulty finding a job should not be the only reason that a person decides to start a business. Self-employment should be viewed as another approach to customizing employment for someone who happens to have a disability. This information has recently been updated, and is now available - http://www.disabilityinfo.gov/digov-public/public/DisplayPage.do?parentFolderId=5094 & http://www.disabilityinfo.gov/digov-public/public/DisplayPage.do?parentFolderId=41
__._,_.___
__._,_.___
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
DBTAC- Northeast ADA Technical Bulletin: February 2007
The DBTAC- Northeast ADA Center at Cornell University provides training,
technical assistance and materials on the ADA and accessible information
technology throughout New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin
Islands. This monthly technical bulletin is part of our dissemination
efforts and if you do not want to receive this document or would like others
from your organization added to our list, please call 1-800-949-4232 or
reply to this message. Thank you.
Mental Health Parity Bill: Finally on the Way to Becoming Law
For the past 15 years, the Mental Health Parity Bill, guaranteeing that
mental health disabilities receive the same medical insurance coverage as
any other health problem, has languished in Congress. Recently, however,
the Mental Health Parity Bill was put on the fast track to passage in the
new Congress. It is expected that the Bill will be signed early this year.
For more information, go to
http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2007/01/09/mental-health-parity-bill/
New website that brings together employers and people with disabilities
seeking employment
(excerpt from press release from Access Solutions)
SIOUX FALLS, SD, January 8, 2007Access Solutions, LLC has announced the
launch of DisabilityWORK.com, a service that brings employers and people
with disabilities together. Employers can expect to reach an untapped pool
of qualified workers, while people with disabilities have a new venue in
which to showcase their talents. DisabilityWORK.com consists of several
different services for both employers and people with disabilities.
Employers can search a database of resumes to find prospective candidates to
fill needed positions. They can also post their job openings on the website
and utilize DisabilityWORK.com's headhunting services. People with
disabilities can not only post their resumes on the website, but they can
also use an array of services ranging from resume-writing and career
coaching to job placement and job coaching. For more information, please
go to http://www.disabilitywork.com//default.aspx
.
Windows Vista Offers Greater Accessibility
Vista, the new Microsoft operating system, includes a variety of new
features and functions that enhance accessibility. The new Ease of Access
Center in Vista is where users can set up the accessibility features that
are beneficial to them, such as the new speech recognition feature which
allows users to interact with their computer by voice.
Read more about Microsoft's approach to accessibility with Vista in the
following article in The Register:
Vista's accessible attitude:
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/12/19/vista_accessibility/
Accessibility in Windows Vista:
http://www.microsoft.com/enable/products/windowsvista/
technical assistance and materials on the ADA and accessible information
technology throughout New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin
Islands. This monthly technical bulletin is part of our dissemination
efforts and if you do not want to receive this document or would like others
from your organization added to our list, please call 1-800-949-4232 or
reply to this message. Thank you.
Mental Health Parity Bill: Finally on the Way to Becoming Law
For the past 15 years, the Mental Health Parity Bill, guaranteeing that
mental health disabilities receive the same medical insurance coverage as
any other health problem, has languished in Congress. Recently, however,
the Mental Health Parity Bill was put on the fast track to passage in the
new Congress. It is expected that the Bill will be signed early this year.
For more information, go to
http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2007/01/09/mental-health-parity-bill/
New website that brings together employers and people with disabilities
seeking employment
(excerpt from press release from Access Solutions)
SIOUX FALLS, SD, January 8, 2007Access Solutions, LLC has announced the
launch of DisabilityWORK.com, a service that brings employers and people
with disabilities together. Employers can expect to reach an untapped pool
of qualified workers, while people with disabilities have a new venue in
which to showcase their talents. DisabilityWORK.com consists of several
different services for both employers and people with disabilities.
Employers can search a database of resumes to find prospective candidates to
fill needed positions. They can also post their job openings on the website
and utilize DisabilityWORK.com's headhunting services. People with
disabilities can not only post their resumes on the website, but they can
also use an array of services ranging from resume-writing and career
coaching to job placement and job coaching. For more information, please
go to http://www.disabilitywork.com//default.aspx
Windows Vista Offers Greater Accessibility
Vista, the new Microsoft operating system, includes a variety of new
features and functions that enhance accessibility. The new Ease of Access
Center in Vista is where users can set up the accessibility features that
are beneficial to them, such as the new speech recognition feature which
allows users to interact with their computer by voice.
Read more about Microsoft's approach to accessibility with Vista in the
following article in The Register:
Vista's accessible attitude:
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/12/19/vista_accessibility/
Accessibility in Windows Vista:
http://www.microsoft.com/enable/products/windowsvista/
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
HUGE! $100M boost opens doors to Section 8
New York Daily News -
100M boost opens doors to Section 8
BY MICHAEL SAUL
DAILY NEWS CITY HALL BUREAU CHIEF
Tuesday, January 30th, 2007
For the first time in more than a decade, the city will be accepting new applications for Section 8 vouchers - with 22,000 families getting the coveted housing subsidy."This really is a very big deal in the housing business," Mayor Bloomberg said yesterday at an applications office in Corona, Queens.
A huge boost in federal funding - up to $100 million nationwide - is behind the largess that's opening up the waiting list for the first time since 1994.
Applications will be accepted for three months starting Feb. 12.
Officials said 12,000 vouchers will be available this year and an additional 10,000 next year. The city will set aside 3,000 for households at risk of becoming homeless.
With a Section 8 voucher, families pay 30% of their income for rent, and the New York City Housing Authority, the largest provider of public housing in the country, pays the remainder directly to the landlord.
The current waiting list has 127,000 families - but time has rendered most of the names obsolete. Of the 75,000 people the city already has contacted, about 60,000 no longer want the vouchers, are no longer eligible or can't be found.
Janet Perry, 48, who has been living in a Brooklyn homeless shelter for nearly a year, was elated to hear she might be in line to get her own apartment.
"I'm very happy," said Perry, a former groundskeeper for the city's Parks Department.
"I called already and the line's been busy, busy, busy at the Section 8 office," Perry said. "I'm going to keep calling, though, until I get someone."
Mary Brosnahan Sullivan, executive director of the Coalition for the Homeless, said she's concerned these vouchers won't reach those with the "most urgent need."
Over the years, the Bloomberg administration has steered homeless people away from Section 8 and toward the "highly flawed" Housing Stability Plus program, which makes it difficult for families to get permanent housing, she said.
But Bloomberg spokesman Jason Post said under the mayor's administration, far more New Yorkers receive rental assistance than before.
"We want to ensure as many households as possible - homeless or otherwise - can benefit," Post said.
First steps toward housing subsidy
Here's how to apply:
Applicants can pick up forms at any of the New York City Housing Authority's borough applications offices or management offices. For a list of addresses, go to www.nyc.gov/nycha or call 311.
Individuals who earn less than $24,800 a year or a family of four making less than $35,000 a year may qualify for the subsidy.
Applications must be postmarked no later than May 14.
Mail completed applications to New York City Housing Authority, P.O. Box 445, Church St. Station, New York, N.Y. 10008-0445.
If you think you're already on the current waiting list, contact the New York City Housing Authority or call 311.
Visit Blog:
http://cunycoalition.blogspot.com/
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Microtel Earns Kudos from Disability Community
Microtel Earns Kudos from Disability Community
Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) presented its ninth annual Eagle Award to Microtel Inns & Suites in recognition for excellence in providing accessible lodging for travelers with disabilities and for making a significant contribution to the advancement of people with disabilities.
DRA also cited Microtel for adopting the Opening Doors® program, which provides all staff with training in disability awareness and customer service. W.C. Duke Associates of Woodford, Virginia, developed the training program.
Microtel Inns & Suites offers three ADA-room designs and a variety of services. In order to better serve travelers with disabilities, Microtel now provides “Access Microtel” pamphlets, “Accessible Fitness” bags for guests to use in their room, and Upper Body Ergometers.
There are currently 297 Microtel hotels open or under construction worldwide. For more information visit www.microtelinn.com, which includes an entire section dedicated to ADA accommodations, featuring room dimensions, ADA specific amenities, common area accessibility information, and a virtual tour.
Disability Rights Advocates (DRA) presented its ninth annual Eagle Award to Microtel Inns & Suites in recognition for excellence in providing accessible lodging for travelers with disabilities and for making a significant contribution to the advancement of people with disabilities.
DRA also cited Microtel for adopting the Opening Doors® program, which provides all staff with training in disability awareness and customer service. W.C. Duke Associates of Woodford, Virginia, developed the training program.
Microtel Inns & Suites offers three ADA-room designs and a variety of services. In order to better serve travelers with disabilities, Microtel now provides “Access Microtel” pamphlets, “Accessible Fitness” bags for guests to use in their room, and Upper Body Ergometers.
There are currently 297 Microtel hotels open or under construction worldwide. For more information visit www.microtelinn.com, which includes an entire section dedicated to ADA accommodations, featuring room dimensions, ADA specific amenities, common area accessibility information, and a virtual tour.
Friday, January 12, 2007
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Do Web Sites Need to Be Accessible to the Blind?
Carla J. Rozycki and David K. Haase
Special to Law.com
January 10, 2007
An advocacy group has sued Target Corp., claiming that Target's Web site
is incompatible with software used by the blind and that such
incompatibility is a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA).
In National Federation for the Blind v. Target Corp. (__ Supp.2d __, 2006
WL 2578282 [N.D. Cal. Sept. 6, 2006]), the U.S. District Court for the
Northern District of California refused to dismiss those claims, leaving
many questions unanswered for entities operating Web sites. TITLE III OF
THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
In 1990, Congress enacted the ADA to establish a comprehensive prohibition
of discrimination on the basis of disability and, in certain
circumstances, to require affirmative efforts to accommodate individuals
with disabilities. Title III of the ADA provides for accessibility of
places of public accommodation.
The ADA defines a "place of public accommodation" as a facility, operated
by a private entity, whose operations affect commerce and fall within at
least one of 12 specified categories. 42 U.S.C. §12181(7).
The statute and implementing regulations were enacted before the Internet
became an everyday tool and do not expressly state whether the Internet is
a place of public accommodation. The Department of Justice has
consistently taken the position that it is -- for example, through the
filing of amicus briefs.
Courts have split on the issue. The U.S. Courts of Appeals for the 6th and
9th Circuits and a district court in Florida have held that a public place
of accommodation must be a physical location. (See, for example, Parker v.
Metro. Life Ins. Co., 121 F.3d 1006 (6th Cir. 1997); Weyer v. Twentieth
Century Fox Film Corp., 198 F.3d 1104, 1114 (9th Cir. 2000); Access Now,
Inc. v. Southwest Airlines Co., 227 F.Supp.2d 1312 (S.D. Fla. 2002),
appeal denied, 385 F.3d 1324 [11th Cir. 2004].)
In contrast, the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has stated that Title
III of the ADA is not limited to purely physical structures, although that
court did not address the Internet specifically. (Carparts v. Automotive
Wholesaler's Ass'n., 37 F.3d 12, 22-23 (1st Cir. 1994.) The 7th U.S.
Circuit Court of Appeals, in dicta, has stated that a Web site can be a
place of public accommodation. (Doe v. Mutual of Omaha Ins. Co., 179 F.3d
557, 559 (7th Cir. 1999.)
Similarly, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals held that an automated
method of selecting television show contestants was an intangible barrier
to a physical location in Rendon v. Valleycrest Productions, 294 F.3d 1279
(11th Cir. 2002).
In 2002, the United States District Court of the Northern District of
Georgia granted a preliminary injunction against the Atlanta public
transit agency in favor of several individuals who alleged violations of
the ADA, including nonaccessible information technology. (Martin v.
Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, 225 F. Supp. 2d 1362 (N.D.
Ga. 2002.) However, the Martin case involved Title II of the ADA dealing
with "public agencies" as opposed to Title III, which deals with "public
accommodations."
Link To Complete Article:
http://www.law.com/jsp/llf/index.js
Special to Law.com
January 10, 2007
An advocacy group has sued Target Corp., claiming that Target's Web site
is incompatible with software used by the blind and that such
incompatibility is a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA).
In National Federation for the Blind v. Target Corp. (__ Supp.2d __, 2006
WL 2578282 [N.D. Cal. Sept. 6, 2006]), the U.S. District Court for the
Northern District of California refused to dismiss those claims, leaving
many questions unanswered for entities operating Web sites. TITLE III OF
THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
In 1990, Congress enacted the ADA to establish a comprehensive prohibition
of discrimination on the basis of disability and, in certain
circumstances, to require affirmative efforts to accommodate individuals
with disabilities. Title III of the ADA provides for accessibility of
places of public accommodation.
The ADA defines a "place of public accommodation" as a facility, operated
by a private entity, whose operations affect commerce and fall within at
least one of 12 specified categories. 42 U.S.C. §12181(7).
The statute and implementing regulations were enacted before the Internet
became an everyday tool and do not expressly state whether the Internet is
a place of public accommodation. The Department of Justice has
consistently taken the position that it is -- for example, through the
filing of amicus briefs.
Courts have split on the issue. The U.S. Courts of Appeals for the 6th and
9th Circuits and a district court in Florida have held that a public place
of accommodation must be a physical location. (See, for example, Parker v.
Metro. Life Ins. Co., 121 F.3d 1006 (6th Cir. 1997); Weyer v. Twentieth
Century Fox Film Corp., 198 F.3d 1104, 1114 (9th Cir. 2000); Access Now,
Inc. v. Southwest Airlines Co., 227 F.Supp.2d 1312 (S.D. Fla. 2002),
appeal denied, 385 F.3d 1324 [11th Cir. 2004].)
In contrast, the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has stated that Title
III of the ADA is not limited to purely physical structures, although that
court did not address the Internet specifically. (Carparts v. Automotive
Wholesaler's Ass'n., 37 F.3d 12, 22-23 (1st Cir. 1994.) The 7th U.S.
Circuit Court of Appeals, in dicta, has stated that a Web site can be a
place of public accommodation. (Doe v. Mutual of Omaha Ins. Co., 179 F.3d
557, 559 (7th Cir. 1999.)
Similarly, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals held that an automated
method of selecting television show contestants was an intangible barrier
to a physical location in Rendon v. Valleycrest Productions, 294 F.3d 1279
(11th Cir. 2002).
In 2002, the United States District Court of the Northern District of
Georgia granted a preliminary injunction against the Atlanta public
transit agency in favor of several individuals who alleged violations of
the ADA, including nonaccessible information technology. (Martin v.
Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, 225 F. Supp. 2d 1362 (N.D.
Ga. 2002.) However, the Martin case involved Title II of the ADA dealing
with "public agencies" as opposed to Title III, which deals with "public
accommodations."
Link To Complete Article:
http://www.law.com/jsp/llf/index.js
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