The Bridge
News from the Arizona Bridge to Independent Living
Volume
XV, Number 1
JANUARY
2004
ABIL
offers and promotes programs designed to empower people with disabilities to take
personal responsibility so they may achieve or continue independent lifestyles
within the community. ABIL is a member of the National Council on Independent
Living (NCIL). "Not just responding to change, but leading it!"
The Big
Push is ON! By Mary Hartle-Smith
The
big push is on to get a ½ cent transportation sales tax extension passed in
Maricopa County. The Transportation
Policy Committee (TPC) and the Regional Council of the Maricopa Association of
Governments (MAG) have both adopted a 20-year transportation plan that includes
expansion of regional mass transit.
Maricopa citizens will have to vote to extend the current sales tax to
fund the plan. The clock is ticking. We
must go into action quickly. The Legislature
starts up January 12th and they must adopt the plan as is and give
Maricopa County the authority to hold an election on this tax issue.
The
TCP plan has already faced public hearings and received 100% approval from
cities leaders involved in the planning. The Legislature must act quickly in
order to hold the election as planned in May of 2004. If they tinker with the plan and try to change it, the vote could
be postponed. Transit advocates want
citizens to have the chance to vote on this in a special election in May,
before the November 2004 general election that will have many other ballot
measures to consider. The current 20
year transportation1/2 cent sales tax that has built our freeways will expire in
2006.
What
can you do??? If this issue is important to
you or someone you care about, call, write, or Email your state representatives
and senator. Transit advocates want the
legislature to pass the plan as developed by the TPC which includes many improvements
to regional public transit. If you need
public transit, let them know your personal transportation needs.. Get family, friends, and neighbors to
contact their legislators too! If you
do not know who your legislators are go to www.vote-smart.org. See legislator contact information on insert
pages 3 and 4.
Background: As adopted by MAG, the regional transportation plan,
would fund freeways and roads at 59% and mass transit, including light rail, at
31%. Unfortunately, many legislators
want more money for freeways and less for public transit. They think that building more freeways will
solve the congestion and air quality issues now facing Maricopa County. The population of Maricopa County is expected
to more than double to over 7 million people by the year 2040!! If this MAG plan is not adopted by the
Legislature as presented, the City of Phoenix has threatened to pull out. Also, if a sensible plan is not adopted NOW,
Maricopa County will face emergency transportation problems in the next 10 to
20 years.
What
else can you do? You can volunteer to help get
others involved in this important issue.
Transit advocacy meetings will be listed in the Bridge and you can join
our email alert list for transit issues: MCAT (Maricopa County Advocating for
Transit) by emailing donnak@abil.org.
Get
Involved and Make 2004 a Year of Positive Change
Phil
Pangrazio, ABIL Executive Director
As
an eventful 2003 comes to an end, I can only wonder what lies ahead in
2004. From a national and local
perspective, the past year was filled with surprises, controversy, tragedy, and
more.
Maybe
most surprising was news of Catholic Bishop Thomas O’Brien being embroiled in a
sexual abuse scandal. O’Brien was
accused and later admitted that he had for years covered-up sexual abuse by
catholic priests throughout the Phoenix Diocese. The story got even more bizarre when he was arrested for a fatal
hit and run automobile accident. He is
now awaiting trial for what looks like vehicular manslaughter or maybe worse.
Controversy
came when President Bush and Congress decided to declare war and invade
Iraq. Since that time, we have
continued unsuccessfully to search for weapons of mass destruction and Saddam
Hussein. As we attempt to bring
democracy to this oil rich country, handfuls of American soldiers are killed
each day as Saddam loyalist try relentlessly to break our resolve. Whether you are for or against this war, it
is clear we are in for a very difficult time ahead.
Tragedy
occurred almost daily as we continued to witness media coverage of death and
carnage from car bombings, suicide attacks, and missile strikes in Israel and
Palestine. To American’s, this conflict between Palestinians and Israelis
appears to be over land, religion, and politics. I do not pretend to understand all the dynamics of this fight,
but I do wish peace could be found.
Brilliance
was demonstrated by network television executives who bombarded the American
public with reality TV shows. Survivor,
Fear Factor, The Bachelor, Joe Millionaire, and Average Joe became a staple of
the American lexicon. Unfortunately,
stupidity was demonstrated by the American public as we continued to watch and
support this kind of programming. I
guess you can include me in that group as well, albeit only occasionally.
These
were not the only stories of significance in 2003. Locally, our State legislature battled and disputed over
Arizona’s largest budget crisis in the history of the State. Unfortunately, the 2004 budget doesn’t look
any better either! Nationally,
corporate malfeasance, securities fraud, and mutual fund scandals have brought
about a public mistrust of corporate America unlike any we have known before. Politically, Congress and the Bush
Administration authorized a huge tax cut and may now need some of that money
back to pay for the new Medicare prescription drug package.
As
you can see, most of the significant events of 2003 were influenced by people
and politics. That is why it is more
important than ever to get involved in your local community to influence
change. With the State legislature
coming back into regular session soon, now is the time! If you are looking for an opportunity to
take that step, come join us at Legislative Awareness Day on January 20th at
the State Capital. Hope to see you
there!
ABIL
Board of Directors
Joseph Mikitish ....................…….……….........
President
Tom Ringhofer ...............................…………...
Vice President
Edward L. Myers, III ...............................................Treasurer
Jim Brahaney ...............................………………...
Secretary
Marjann Fletcher
...................…..................... Past President
Pamela Allan
........................….......…............…...…. Member
Sharon Atwood .....................................……....……..
Member
Nola Jones-Baker
................................................... Member
William Harper
................................……....…….... Member
Lynn Houston ................................……………….
Member
F. Lee Jacquette
..............................………………. Member
Nikki Jeffords ..............................……………….
Member
Nicholas L. Perry
.....................................……....…….. Member
Susan Scott
.....................................……....…….. Member
Scott Turner
........................................……....…….. Member
The Bridge newsletter is a
free monthly publication of Arizona Bridge to Independent Living (ABIL). To add
or remove your name from our mailing list, or to place a disability related
personal or business classified ad, call or write to us at:
The
Bridge c/o ABIL
Attention:
Editor
1229
E. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ
85034-1101
(602)
256-2245 1-800-280-2245*
(*outside
the 602, 623, 480, calling areas)
FAX: (602) 254-6407
e-mail: azbridge@abil.org
Website: www.abil.org
ABIL-Thomas
office
2345
E. Thomas, Phoenix, AZ 85016
ABIL
Advocacy Unit, Ste. 290
ABIL
Employment Services, Suite 310-A
(602)
667-0277
FAX
602-667-0318
ABIL
- Metro Center office
10000
N. 31st Avenue, Suite D-405
Phoenix,
AZ 85051 (602)-424-4100
FAX
(602) 424-4118
ABIL-East
office
225
E. First Street, Suite 206
Mesa,
AZ 85201 (480) 655-9750
FAX
(480) 655-9751 Voice/TDD (602) 256-2245
1-800-280-ABIL
(outside 602, 623, 480 calling areas)
FAX
(602) 254-6407
e-mail: azbridge@abil.org
Website:
www.abil.org
Staff email: First name, initial of last name, @abil.org
To
Receive “The Bridge” by e-mail
automatically each month, send your request including phone number, to: pennyf@abil.org
or Penny c/o ABIL, 1229 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034-1101, or call (602) 296-0518. Please also indicate if you would like to
discontinue receiving the hard copy by mail.
ABIL Administrative Staff
Phil Pangrazio, 296-0513 .........…........….............
Executive Director
Stacy Budge,
296-0511...................... Business Office Director
Maribel Diaz, 296-0515
......................…….................... Receptionist
Louise Downey,
296-0519..........……......... Accounting Assistant
Nancy Fleming, 296-0512
..............….................... Billing Clerk
Penny Fore, 296-0518
..............……….......... Executive Assistant
Sandy Guinn, 296-0514
........…...….......... Director of Operations
Tina Hedges, 296-0522
...................……............... Billing Clerk
Tim Huggins
............................................ Computer Technician
Bertha Garcia, 296-0510
....................................... Program Aide
Cathy Lacy, 296-0551
............................................ Payroll Clerk
Jason Miller, 296-0539
..................................... Billing Assistant
Jay Murrillo,
296-0517.................... Van Driver/Facilities Maint.
DeMarQues Thomas, 296-0538
........ Van Driver/Facilities Maint.
Donna Kruck, 296-0520
............…..........................Unit Director
Lynn Bejnar, 667-0277, Ext
16 …..... “This is My Life” Prg. Mgr.
David Carey, 296-0523
.....................…….... Advocacy Specialist
Erik Jensen, 296-0527
...........……..... Work Incentives Specialist
Donna Lorti, 424-4105
...................... Work Incentives Specialist
Ann Pasco, 667-0277, Ext 14
.......……....Volunteer Coordinator
Carolan Quenneville,
296-0524….. Graphic Specialist/Newsletter
Rhonda Webb, 296-0509 ......................
Work Incentives Specialist
Susan Webb, 667-0277, Ext 11
...........………..........Unit Director
Lynda Connors, 667-0277,
Ext. 12 …....... Employment Coordinator
Joe Connors, 667-0277, Ext
15 ............... Employment Coordinator
Marilon Cox, 667-0277,
Ext.17, ......... Program Support/ Billing Coord
Dan Siegler, 667-0277, Ext
10 ………..... Employment Technician
Darrel Christenson ,
296-0530 ...........………...........Unit Director
Judy Benshoof, 296-0532
............ ILA/Home Mod. Coord (Mesa)
Peter Clute, 296-0525
.......................... Information & Referral
Fernando Cruz 296-0526
............................ Reintegration Coord.
Jon DeWinter, 296-0537 ....
Home Mod.Coord.(Glendale/Peoria)
Tony DiRienzi, 296-0534
..........…....... Early Intervention Coord.
Paula Grodecki, 480-222-4212
.....…......... Reintegration Coord.
Tyrone Harrington, 424-4103
............ Com. Liv. Options Coord.
Leanne Jones,
296-0535......…….. Soc/Rec, Youth Outreach/ILA
Rosalie Perry, 296-0536 ....
Independent Living Skills Advocate
Joanna Savidan,
296-0531.......…..... Home Mod. Coord. (Phx)
Leonard Smith, 296-0533
......…...... Reintegration Coord.
Gwen Dean,
296-0541.......................………............Unit Director
Mary Avila, 296-0528
......................................... PAS Feild Rep.
Pam Burdette,
480-222-4204......................…......... PAS Field Rep.
Jerry Chee, 424-4107
..............................…… Program Manager
Gerry Davis, 296-0546
.....………………………. Payroll Clerk
Maria Deleon, 480-222-4203
................................. PAS Field Rep.
Pamela Geans, 480-222-4201
.... Mesa Receptionist/Program Aide
Lyndora Hall,
296-0529............…........................ PAS Field Rep.
Judy Ludlow, 296-0542
...............................…..... PAS Field Rep.
Teodoro Marquez, 424-4102
............................... PAS Field Rep.
Kelli Martin,
296-0544……………………………. Program Aide
Sheri Mecca,
296-0547...............................…. Program Manager
Diane Patton, 480-222-4206
.............……......... Program Manager
Christine Pinedo, 296-0552
…………………..…. Program Aide
Colleen Podmore, 424-4108
......…...................... PAS Field Rep.
Shannon Rose, 424-4101,
...... Metro Receptionist / Program Aide
Pat Trouts, 296-0506
............................................. Payroll Clerk
Christina Velasquez,
424-4104 ...............…........ PAS Field Rep.
Grace Walstad, 296-0540 ..........................….....
PAS Field Rep.
Roxanna Williams, 424-4106
.................................. PAS Field Rep.
Melanie Woods, 480-222-4205
....................…….. PAS Field Rep.
Bonnie Zanardi, 480-222-4202
........................... PAS Feild Rep.
Medicare
Bill Update
By Donna Kruck
Photo: Advocates rally at
the Los Olivas Senior Center to protest the Bush approved Medicare Bill.
The
Medicare Bill was passed and signed by President Bush. Most of the changes
don’t go into affect until 2006. The bill got passed calling for a requirement for
pilot programs using “privatization” (HMO’s) in specific cities - Phoenix is
not one. Though this bill does nothing to contain the spiraling cost of
prescription drugs or profits from HMO’s, our advocacy were somewhat
successful. The final bill did reduce the size of the donut hole, where
beneficiaries will have to pay a premium and will not get any prescription drug
benefit. We got the privatization to be postponed and only in a few cities - so
there is time to change this later potentially. Low-income beneficiaries will
not have to pay a deductible or co-pay.
What
prescription drug cost relief will beneficiaries see before 2006? Per a Kyle
assistant there will be a prescription drug card that can cost up to $30
annually. It will take effect on April 1, 2004. Those with incomes of 135% of
Federal Poverty Level and less will receive cards with $600 in credit on them
to use towards the purchase of their Rx drugs. There are also, measures to
speed up the approval of name brand drugs to generic status, thus reducing
their cost. According to a CMS bill document:
“Medicare-endorsed
drug cards would be available no later than 6 months after enactment and the
program would end when the permanent prescription drug benefit becomes available
to beneficiaries in 2006. There will be an appropriate transition for ending
the discount care and beginning the drug benefit. Beneficiaries would have the
choice of at least 2 cards. Cards would be available on at least a statewide
basis; except for Medicare+Choice sponsors would offer cards in their service
area. All Medicare beneficiaries would be eligible for the card, except those
enrolled in Medicaid and entitled to Medicaid drug coverage (including under an
1115 waiver).
“Individuals
can only enroll in one Medicare-endorsed card at a time. Individuals may switch
to a different drug card for 2005.”
“PBMs
(Pharmacy Benefit Managers), wholesalers, retail pharmacies, insurers, or
Medicare+Choice plans could be sponsors of a Medicare-endorsed drug card.”
“All
individuals with incomes at or under 135% of the federal poverty level would be
eligible for transitional assistance unless they have third party coverage from
former employers, the Dept. of Defense, Medicaid, or FEHBP (federal employees health
benefit plan).”
“Individuals
would self-certify income, but HHS would verify eligibility through Medicaid,
Social Security, or tax information, subject to strict confidentiality
constraints. There would be no asset test (unlike the Medicaid programs). Up to
$600 per year would be provided in conjunction with the discount card to
purchase prescription drugs, but the amount may be prorated for beneficiaries
who enroll for part of a year. Funds not used in one year may be rolled over to
the next year. The annual enrollment fee would be paid by the Secretary for
transitional assistance eligible individuals. Eligible individuals with incomes
below 100% of poverty would pay a 5% coinsurance on each discounted drug; those
with incomes between 100 and 135% of poverty would pay 10% coinsurance on each
discounted drug.”
Can They
Hear Us Now?
Chances
Are That They Can’t!!
A
2000 Harris Poll revealed that people with disabilities register to vote at a
rate that is 16 percentage points less than the rest of the population. Until
state and federal lawmakers begin to hear from more of us, they aren’t going
pay attention to our issues - the issues of concern to people with
disabilities. Join us for a workshop on the importance of casting your vote and
learn more about how you can help register other voters with disabilities and
ensure that they do hear us in the next election.
Guest
Speaker: Jami Synder
Monday,
January 5 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location:
1229 E. Washington Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ
Who’s
Side is AARP On?
By
Donna Kruck
There
has been much controversy during this recent fight for a Medicare Prescription
drug benefit. AARP spent tons of money to urge beneficiaries to contact their
Congressmen and Senators to ask them to vote FOR the bill.
Alliance
for Retired Americans, started by labor retirees but open to anyone, fought the
bill saying it was inadequate, unnecessarily changed the structure of Medicare
when all we wanted was an Rx benefit. AARP said we should take the benefit
offered and run. Meanwhile the alliance was pointing out that AARP is an
insurance provider, thus could benefit form the legislation as passed - (it
offers incentives to Health Plans to participate). AARP says that this at least
gives seniors some help. Dana Kennedy, spokesperson for the Arizona chapter of
the Alliance for Retired Americans, noted at the recent Medicare rally at Los
Olivas Senior Center, that over 1,000 Arizonans had joined the Alliance in the
past month as a result of their advocacy for a better Medicare bill. The Alliance
is encouraging people to drop their AARP membership and join the Alliance
instead, siting their advocacy efforts to protect retiree benefits and secure
prescription drug coverage. For more information on the Alliance for Retired
Americans contact:
Dana Marie Kennedy, Western Regional Coordinator
Alliance for Retired Americans, Arizona office
(602) 631-4488
Website: www.retiredamericans.org
Email: dkennedy@retiredamericans.org
Advocates
report that they didn’t have enough votes to pass the House bill (some wanted a
richer benefit, others wanted it to privatize Medicare and do more to control
costs - both “liberal” & “conserviative”). They kept the voting open for an
unpresidented 3 hours while President Bush lobbied to get members to change
their vote to “yes.” Congressman Franks was one of the ones who changed his
vote during that 3 hours from a “no” to a “yes.”
Summary
of Arizona Votes on Medicare Bill:
AZ
/House of Representatives
Grijalva -No Pastor - No
Flake - No Shadegg - No
Renzi - Yes Kolbe - Yes
Hayworth - Yes Franks - Yes
Senate
Kyl
- Yes McCain – No
Make
Sure They Hear You!
Attend
the GCDD’s
Legislative
Awareness Day
Tuesday,
January 20th
9:00AM Legislative
Advocacy Training
11:30-2:00 Lunch with
Your Legislator
Please
join us for the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD)
Legislative Awareness Day. A Legislative Advocacy Training featuring Arizona Legislators
and tours of the Capitol will be held in the morning in conjunction with the
event. The Legislative training will begin at 9AM and will finish in time for
the luncheon. Lunches will be provided. We encourage you to invite your
Legislator to attend. Tables will be set up by district and we will assist you
in identifying which district is yours. There will be information tables from
disability organizations stationed throughout the plaza.
This important annual event is YOUR chance to discuss your
disability related public policy issues with your legislators.
Legislators
continue to be faced with very difficult decisions on which programs to
preserve, and which ones to cut in order to balance the budget. This is a great
time to get to know your legislators and for them to hear from you. There is a
lot at stake in the upcoming session. If you are interested in attending the
training please call Judy at 602-274-6287.
If
you need an accomodation or have questions please call 602-542-4049 or 1-800-899-5893.
Spanish and American Sign Language interpreters will be available at the event.
GET
EMPOWERED!
Join
one of ABIL’s advocacy e-groups and keep informed on what is going on in AZ and
around the nation regarding issues of importance to people with disabilities.
Advocacy e-groups include Empower (general alerts) and topical alert lists:
transit, healthcare/Rx drugs, Independent Living, Employment. Anyone who
subscribes can post events and alerts on the list. It’s yours. Use it! Just
send a note asking to subscribe at listserv@abil.org
Please help us get the word out by including this notice in
your organization’s publication.
Project
Aids Those With Family Matters, No Attorney
Source: Arizona
Capitol Times
East
Valley residents who don’t have an attorney and are involved in divorce, child
custody or domestic violence matters may take their questions to the Family
Lawyers Assistance Project housed in an office on the second floor of the Maricopa
County Superior Court Southeast Facility at 222. E. Javelina in Mesa.
The
project, also known as FLAP, aids those who cannot afford to hire attorneys to
represent them in family law matters.
“This
has been a goal we’ve worked toward achieving for a long time,” said Southeast
Presiding Judge M. Jean Hoag. “I want to thank County Board Chairman Fulton
Brock and Supervisor Don Stapley for arranging space in an area where their
East Valley office is located to be used for this important legal assistance
program.”
Last year nearly 76 per cent of pending
family court cases had litigants who were representing themselves. The
remainder of the pending cases had either one or both parties represented by a
lawyer.
Volunteer lawyers working with FLAP provide 30-minute
consultations and legal advice. The service is free to eligible clients or a
$25 cash fee is charged for those not meeting eligibility. The attorneys work
for free and any fees collected are used to support the program. FLAP began its
program in 1992 assisting more than 5,000 individuals and families each year,
according to the court. When Superior Court’s Self Service Center premiered in
the East Court Building in downtown Phoenix, FLAP was provided with offices to
accommodate the center’s customers.
The
Self Service Center assists self represented litigants with information about
court processes, forms needed to file cases and ways to more easily navigate
the court system. Customers visiting the Self Service Center are provided with
easy access to the FLAP program.
However,
in the Southeast Superior Court Facility in Mesa, getting privacy was a
challenge. The Self Service Center in Mesa does not have enough space to
include a FLAP office within its area, which forced the volunteer lawyers to
meet with clients in the cafeteria at the Court Facility. The newly opened
office assures the lawyers and their clients have total privacy, which
previously was not available.
“Privacy
is always a paramount issue when people come to the South East Facility to
discuss their court-related issues,” said Mr. Stapley. “This office allows for
the frank discussions that are desperately needed.”
Kruck
Re-Appointed to SMAC
Donna
Kruck, ABIL’s Advocacy Director has been re-appointed to the State Medicaid
Advisory Committee. Kruck is excited to participate for another term on the
advisory committee which meets quarterly.
“In
the past, we have been more a sounding board than an advisory committee,” Kruck
reports. “The new AHCCCS Director, Tony
Rodgers, has a great vision for AHCCCS and has invited our committee, comprised
of a variety of community members and state agency representatives, to truly be
an advisory body. I am looking forward to us being a working committee that can
really make a difference and improve health care provision for Arizonan’s. I also get a chance to understand better how
AHCCCS works, and then I can pass that on to ABIL participants.”
ABIL
wants to welcome Mr. Rodgers as the new director of AHCCCS.
Web Site
Aids Those Searching For An Attorney
A
new Web site, www.lawyerfinders.org, has been launched to help the public
request legal help. The site offers a request form that is reviewed by a
coordinator who processes the request and then schedules a 30-minute legal
consultation with an attorney. There is a $35 referral fee.
The
attorneys used in the program are in good standing with the State Bar of
Arizona and the Maricopa County Bar, have no complaints filed against them,
according to Margarita Flores, Lawyer Referral Service department director.
Lawyer
Referral service is run by The Maricopa County Bar Association, largest
voluntary bar association in Arizona. The referral program last year received
more than 100,000 calls from people seeking attorneys in more than 16 areas of
law.
Source:
Arizona Capitol Times
Advocacy
Presentations/Workshops
All
Advocacy presentations are free - Participants must RSVP with David
Carey, 602-296-0523. Presentations/Workshops without a minimum of 4
participants are subject to cancellation. For accommodations or alternative format please call
in advance. For ABIL van transportation please call as soon as possible. ABIL
requests a $1+ donation (each way) for ABIL van transportation. Consumers must be 18 years+ or their own
legal guardian.
Social Security Work Incentives
Speakers: Erik Jensen, Rhonda Webb, & Donna Lorti
- Work Incentives Specialists.
Learn
how ABIL’s Benefits Planning, Assistance and Outreach program, granted through
the Social Security Administration, can help people on SSI and/or SSDI
understand how employment affects their cash and medical benefits. Over the
last few years, several new work incentives have been created through Social
Security and other public programs. Our trained and certified Work Incentive
Specialists are also happy to provide presentations at your agency location.
Monday,
January 19th 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
ABIL
East - 225 East 1st Street. Ste. 206 Mesa
Workshops for SSI/SSDI Consumers
Consumers come and learn how employment
will affect your cash and medical benefits.
Please sign up for the workshop that matches the kind of Social Security
you receive. If you are unsure which kind you receive, David can help you
figure that out when you call to RSVP.
We are holding separate workshops for each type of benefit: Social
Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
because each program has different rules and different work incentives. If you receive both, let David know and he
will help you get an appointment with a Work Incentive Specialist. Family
members and/or support person are welcome.
Work
Incentives & SSDI
Friday,
January 30 1:00 p.m. –
3:00 p.m.
Monday,
January 12 10:00 a.m. – 12:00
p.m.
ABIL
East - 225 East 1st Street. Ste. 206 Mesa
Friday,
January 23 1:00 p.m. –
3:00 p.m.
2345 E.
Thomas Rd. Ste. 290, Phoenix
Wednesday,
January 28 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Metro
Center Office (10000 N. 31st Avenue, Ste. D-405), Phoenix
Claim
Your Earned Income Tax Credit
Get more from your regular paycheck! The Earned Income Tax Credit
(EITC) is a special tax benefit for people who work full or part-time. If you
qualify, you’ll owe less in taxes, and you may get cash back. Even if you don’t
owe income tax you can get the credit. But you must file a federal tax return.
Who can get the Earned Income TAX Credit?
• Workers who were raising
children in their homes and who earned less than $33,692 in 2003 can receive an
EITC up to $4,204 (or less than $29,666 if they were raising only one child).
• Workers between age 25
and age 65, who were not raising children in their homes, and who earned less
than $11,230 in 2003.
Come and learn about this tax benefit!
Guest
Speaker: Wayne Tormala
Friday,
January 16 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location:
1229 E. Washington, Phoenix
Emergency
Planning for People with Disabilities (Consumers)
People with
disabilities need to be included in emergency planning. This 1 ½ hour workshop
will focus on how to advocate for emergency plans that include people with
disabilities, as well as tips, tools and techniques for consumers to help
themselves during an emergency.
Guest
Speaker: Cindy Brown, Training and Program Coordinator – AZ Office for
Americans with Disabilities
Tuesday,
January 27 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location:
1229 E. Washington, Phoenix
Southwest
Institute Announces “Fast Track”
The
Fast Track program includes six modules designed to help young adults acquire
the skills necessary for a satisfying journey on the highway of life. Each
module includes a set of hands-on, fun activities designed to build the skills
youth need to transition to adulthood.
Fast
Track activities focus on the following topics:
· Vocation—choosing a
career/job (including a vocational interest survey)
· Health—self-management of
health care
· Social—sharpening the social
skills necessary for getting along with peers, family, health providers, and
fellow-workers
· Housing—learning about
housing options
· Money Management—setting
up a budget and keeping track of resources
· Transportation—learning
about transportation options
A
$10.00 registration fee must be paid prior to completing the vocational survey.
Participants who successfully complete the 5-week program will be refunded the
$10.00 registration fee and paid an additional $40.
(Childrens Rehabilitation
Services)
(Arizona State University)
(Southwest
Institute for Family and Children with Special Health Care Needs)
(Childrens Rehabilitation
Services)
All
sessions will run from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
For
more information regarding the Fast Track Program, please contact Nora at
480-222-8800, ext. 30.
Arizona
Scottish Gathering & Highland Games
February
28-29th
Mesa
Community College
The
Caledonian Society of Arizona is proud to host the 40th Annual Arizona Scottish
Highland Games and Clan Gathering. Come celebrate Scottish and Celtic history! Enjoy
the sound of bagpipes, visit the dozens of clan tents, sing along with the
entertainers, admire the skill and energy of the highland dancers and the
spirited athletic competitions!
Advance
ticket prices: Adult (16+) $12, Senior (60+) $11
Child
(5-15) $5. For group ticket sales call 602-431-0095.
Arizona Disability Expo:
Your Community, Your Life,
Your Future
January 28th, 9 am -4 pm
Exhibition Hall, AZ State Fairgrounds
McDowell & 19th Ave.
Registration
& parking are free. Expo will include exhibitors from disability
organizations and groups that provide services and products to people
w/disabilities, including an Assistive Technology Section and Recreational
Section. Nine programs will be provided, including topics on Disability
Awareness, Financial Issues, ADA & Civil Rights, Emergency Preparation, Transition from school to post
secondary, and much, much more. For more info, contact Susan DeNova at
602-470-1802, xl14 or sdenova@de.state.az.us
Free
Computers for People
with
Disabilities
The
Jim Mullen Foundation provides free computers for people with disabilities. The
organization specializes in providing computers for anybody especially for
those individuals who think that they are unable to use one. For more
information go to:
http://www.jimmullen.com/ZoomSeq.asp?id=7948
DOJ
Guidance
on
Accessible Web Sites
The
Department of Justice has a new technical assistance document available to
provide guidance to state and local governments on how to make their web sites
accessible. “Accessibility of State and Local Government Websites to
People
with Disabilities” includes resource information for web developers. This
straightforward and helpful document is posted in PDF for print and PDF for
screen, as well as HTML (www.ada.gov/websites2.htm).
Questions
about the ADA?
The Pacific Disability and Business Technical
Assistance Center (PDBTAC) can answer questions on all aspects of the ADA
and/or provide you with literature in print or alternative formats. Call
1-800-949-4232 or log on to: http://www.pacdbtac.org
ABIL
Community Calendar – RSVP for All Events
Funding
for Social and Recreational activities is provided (in part) by the Area Agency
on Aging, Region I, Inc. and the Arizona Department of Economic Security. ABIL
requests a $1+ donation (each way) for transportation provided on the ABIL van.
Consumers must be 18 years+ or own legal guardian for ABIL van
transportation. Please do not wear
scented products or smoke when attending events. Reasonable Accommodations,
including Sign Language Interpreters and Personal Assistants, will be provided
at ABIL events upon request.
Jan 05 Can they hear us now?, 1-3:00PM. Phx/Kitchen.
Center for Disability Law. See page 4. David, 602-296-0523
Jan 06 Women with Disabilities & Self-Esteem
Workshop, Session #1, 9:00AM - 4:00PM. Mesa/Classroom. Meet with mutually
supportive ladies. Enhance your self-esteem. Judy, (602) 296-0532
Jan 06* Improbable Theatre Co., 6-8:00PM. *Every Tuesday.
Call for location. Kathy Tweet, 602-296-0503
Jan 07 Healer Within, 1-3:30 PM. Thomas/Conf
Room. Womens wellness group - Using Mind, Body & Spirit to have a
satisfying life. Relaxation exercises, sharing. New attendees must RSVP. Donna,
(602)296-0520
Jan 08 V.O.I.C.E., 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. A
monthly support group for persons with disabilities, their families and
rehabilitation providers. 19055 N. 57th Ave., Glendale. Clayton Guffey, (602)
789-9129.
Jan 08 SR/In-House Movie, 1-3:30 PM.
Metro/Classroom. Leanne, (602) 296-0535
Jan 12 LEGISLATURE OPENS! - Enroll in one of ABIL’s
alert egroups to get updates on legislative actions! See details on page 5.
Donna, (602) 206-0520
Jan 12 SSI/Work Incentives, 10:00AM-12:00PM.
Mesa/Classroom. Details page 7. David, (602) 296-0523
Jan 13 Women with Disabilities & Self-Esteem
Workshop, Session #2, 9:00AM - 4:00PM. Mesa/Classroom. Judy, (602) 296-0532
Jan 14 SR/Bowling, 12-3:00 PM. 4407 S Rural
Rd. Tempe. Bowling ramps will be provided. Cost: $1.60. Leanne, (602) 296-0535
Jan 16 Earned Income Tax Credit Presentation, 1- 3:00PM. Phx/Kitchen.
Details page 7. David, (602) 296-0523
Jan 16 COMPASS, 2-4:30PM. Providing Direction and Networking to
Persons with Disabilities. 7375 E. 2nd St., Bldg. 2, Rm. 5, Scottsdale. Susan
DeNova, (602) 470-1802
Jan 20 LEGISLATIVE AWARENESS DAY, 9:00AM-1:30PM.
Wesley Bolin Plaza. See page 5.
Jan 20 Women with Disabilities & Self-Esteem
Workshop, Session #3, 9:00AM - 4:00PM. Mesa/Classroom. Judy, (602) 296-0532
Jan 20 ADA Teleconference/Ask the EEOC, Noon - 1:30 PM. Sharon
Rennert, Attorney Advisor, US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Darrel,
(602) 296-0530
Jan 21 Social Security Work Incentives for
Service Providers, 10:00 AM -12:00 PM. Mesa/Classroom. See details on page 7.
David, (602) 296-0523
Jan 21 Healer Within, 1-3:30PM. Thomas/Conf
Room. Womens wellness group - Using Mind, Body & Spirit to have a
satisfying life. Relaxation exercises, sharing. New attendees must RSVP. Donna,
602-296-0520
Jan 22 SR/Cooking Group, 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM.
Phx/Kitchen. Leanne, (602) 296-0535
Jan 23 SSI/Work Incentives, 1-3:00 PM. Thomas/Ste 290.
See details on page 7. David, (602) 296-0523
Jan 26 SR/Newsletter Party, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Phx/Kitchen. Leanne, (602) 296-0535
Jan 26 EVDAG/ TRIP Meeting, 1-3:30 PM. Mesa/Classroom. Join
others in working on community and transportation advocacy issues. Robert Payne
(480) 642-8445 or Mary Hartle Smith, (480) 733-5266
Jan 27 Emergency Planning for People with
Disabilities, 9:30 AM - Noon. Phx/Kitchen. Arizona Office for Americans with
Disabilities. See details on page 7. David, (602) 296-0523
Jan 28 Disability Expo, 9:00AM - 4:00PM. AZ State
Fairgrounds. See page 8. Susan DeNova, (602) 470-1802 ext.114
Jan 28 SSI/Work Incentives, 1-3:00 PM.
Metro/Classroom. See details on page 7. David, (602) 296-0523
Jan 30 SSDI/Social Security Work Incentives, 1-3:00 PM. Thomas/Ste 290.
Details page 7. David, (602) 296-0523
Questions about the ADA? The Pacific Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center
(PDBTAC) can answer questions on all aspects of the ADA and/or provide you with
literature in print or alternative formats. Call 1-800-949-4232 or log
on to: http://www.pacdbtac.org
Classified
Ads Deadline: January 14th
Call
602-296-0524 or send by email marked “Want Ad” to carolanq@abil.org ABIL
provides space for individuals to place personal disability related ads free of
charge and is not responsible for the quality of advertised items or services.
The fee for a disability related business ad is $25. Please call to renew ads.
For
Sale:
‘88
Ford E-150 wheelchair van. 302 engine, raised top & door. New AC, alternator,
& tires. Fairly new engine w/40k miles. Good for C5-C6 quad or para. Dual
sun roof, security alarm, limo tint, custom leather int. Runs great. Must Sell.
$6000 OBO. John, 602-861-1139.
‘90
Cad Fleetwood, RWD, 5.7 350 motor. Runs great. Gold package. Scooter lift &
scooter. $4000 OBO. 480-225-4567.
‘98
Full conversion Chevy Van, Blk w/gray int. Loaded. UVLift, electric bed, Captains
chair, tie downs & automatic lock downs, TV/VCR, headphones, CD player
holds 10. Vacuum cleaner. Tinted windows, rear air, 5 yrs old. $12,000. Sharon,
480-834-2938 or 480-430-0388.
‘95
Chevy conversion Van, w/Braun 800L swing out lift. Only 44K miles, new tires &
heavy duty battery, front & rear a/c, new door openers & remote
controls. Like new inside & out. Must sell. $12,000 OBO. Please call
Bill 602-866-1095.
’99 Dodge Grand Caravan, fully
converted for wheelchair use. 60K miles. Asking $25,500. Call Vicki,
480-703-2998
‘90 Ford E-150, lowered
floor van, w/Ricon Lift. Tie downs, EZ-Lock system on driver & passenger
sides, great mech. cond. New 134A dual AC, radiator, lift battery and four 6ply
tires. Two rear captain’s chairs and one for driver which can be switched to passenger
seat when driven from wheelchair. Wht ext/Mauve Int. E&J electric wheelchair incl. 106K miles. $5500 OBO Call 602-942-3689 or 602-561-1750.
‘84
Ford Van
w/plush int/ext., w/new Ricon wheelchair lift w/remote, & 3 sets of
switches, placed for easy use. Other features. 60K original miles. One time
offer - Van for sale only thru February 11th. Exlnt cond., $15,000 FIRM. Must
see! 30 day warrantee on ALL parts and labor, w/the exception of damage
occurring from neglect, abuse OR misuse. Serious inquiries, please. Call
480-425-0902.
2
wheelchairs.
one is 16" wide for $800, and one is 18" wide for $950. Will sell
BOTH for $1500. Exlnt cond...Firm! ROHO
cushions, exc. cond. One 17" x 17", $150. Second 17" x 18",
$150. Call 480-425-0902.
Silverstar
Electric Wheelchair Lift, 325lb weight capacity, used 3 times. Brand new condition.
Cost new: $1700. Will sell for $700 OBO. Call Lisa, 480-895-6791(h) or
480-221-8171 (cell)
Tufcare
Walker w/adjustable
handle bars, hand brakes, resting feet, large blow up tires. Blue. Folds up
neatly, good condition. $125. Call Kay, 480-998-1877
Hoveround
power chair,
w/reclining seat. Extra wide, wt capacity to 300lbs. Seat belt, head rest,
battery charger. Excellent cond. - never used. Cost new 6K, asking $4000. Call
623-939-5145 - Speak clearly & slowly please.
Quickie
Shadow Mach 2 hand cycle. 7 speed. Horizontal easy power quad handles. Brand new,
never used. $795. Call 602-468-1829
Scooter, for larger person &
heavy duty lift. $2500. Call 602-589-5071.
Action
Ranger X power chair w/charger & new tires. $1500. 3 whl scooter w/charger.
$300. Melissa, 480-731-9933
For
Sale:
Manual
wheelchair
w/leg lifts & cushion, used twice. $100. Electric hospital bed
w/trapeze bar, side rails, like new. $300.
Exogen
bone stimulator. $300. Call Pat, 602-870-7736.
2
Van Ramps.
#1. Ricon w/remote 6 months old. Asking $1500. #2. 1 ½ yrs old, Asking $800.
Call Jesus, (h)480-736-8370, (c) 480-600-0738.
Power
Ranger X wheelchair. Black. Cost new 4-5k. Asking $800. Call Christine, 480-835-5440.
Wheelchair Gel Cushion w/contoured
seat. Never used, have original receipt for $350, will sell for $150 OBO.
Located I-17/Thunderbird Rd. Call 602-375-0350 or 602-375-3610
Craftmatic Elec. Adjustable Bed.
Queen size w/massager. Remote hand control raises/lowers head or feet. Like
new, was in guest rm. Pd. $3,700, asking $950 OBO. Located 1-17/Thunderbird Rd.
Call (602) 375-0350 or (602) 375-3610
2
Wheelchairs.
Both-very good cond. Quickie P300 w/newer battery, $1,800. Quickie 2, very
light weight, $900. Call Mary Ann, 602-717-2398.
Accessible
Home.
Glendale, near I-17/Loop 101. Updates: paint, carpet installed 9/03, newer
smooth top stove, ‘frige’ & washer. Also incl. dishwasher & dryer. Living/Dining
room combo, bayed eat-in area in kitchen, decorator mirrors, tiled countertops,
tile. Easy maint. landscape, playpool. 2BR/Den/2BA/2car garage. Immaculate,
move in ready. Call Mary Ann, 602-717-2398 for directions & details.
Accessible
home, W
Phx., 1522 sqft., 2BR/2BA. (formerly 3BR, now huge master BR suite) w/patio
door exit, beautiful lite wood & other upgraded flooring. Dome ceiling in
kitchen, roll-in shower, wide doors & many other improvements. Carport fits
vehicle w/lift. Large lot w/RV
gate. $113,000. Pam/Denise,
623-848-1456.
Rental:
Universal design. 2 BR/1BA, Sun City area; 36" doors, door from BR to BA; roll-in
shower; grab bars, tile floors. New kitchen, elec heat/AC; paint; elec
switches; outlets and switches at 40"; dedicated line in BR for spec.
equip; washer/dryer, refrig, gas stove, microwave; accessible storage in
roll-in room; 1 car gar; huge covered patio; maint. free yard. Near bus line;
shopping, amenities, rec centers. Available now. Other props available, w/customized
modifications. Mike or Sue, 623-975-4180.
Wanted/Seeking:
Roommate to share lovely 4BR house,
pool & patio in N. Phx area. Tile, carpet & 1 cat. Non-smoking,
non-perfume & fragrance free environment. Non-toxic steam or vinegar
cleaning. No pesticide use. Features Austin Air Plus System & Living Air
ozone unit. Washer/dryer & storage area available. Monthly rate, incl.
utilities start at $350. For details call 602-375-0350 or 602-375-3610
Stand
up Lift, Standing Frame, that supports/allows person to move around in standing
position. Marilyn, 480-922-1817
Roommate
situation.
Cannot be a caregiver or driver. 40 yr old female w/disability. Have no ex,
kids, or pets. Go to school at 15th Ave/Thomas - hope to live relatively close.
E-mail; ks43425@yahoo.com