AADD's Capitol Inclusion

RSVP Date Extended for Conversations that Matter: Gainesville

2012-01-29T17:58:00.003-05:00

Save the Date!

Conversations That Matter:

Justice and Developmental Disabilities

· Meet with advocates and community leaders for a dialogue about individuals with developmental disabilities and the justice system.

· Discuss current programs and practices in Georgia and your community and identify community based alternatives to incarceration.

· Receive updates on the Georgia Crisis System for individuals with developmental disabilities.

February 9, 2012

11:30am-1:30pm Gainesville

The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy

2719 Tumbling Creek Road

Gainesville, GA 30504

Extended RSVP to Friday, Feb. 3, 2012

Marty Owens, 678-617-5527

martyowens@bellsouth.net

Scott Crain, 770-540-4479

Scott.Crain@hallco.org

Please send to those in your network that you feel should be invited to the discussion. If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact Heidi Fernandez.

Sponsored by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Division of Developmental Disabilities. Presented by All About Developmental Disabilities.

Provider Pay Cuts Provoke Fierce Opposition

2012-01-28T11:40:00.000-05:00

Pat Ellis held hands with her son John while waiting to get into an already packed state board room Thursday.

The Ellises traveled from Commerce to Atlanta to attend a hearing that focused on proposed state cuts in payments for certain residential and day programs for the developmentally disabled.

John Ellis, 39, who has Down syndrome, has been going to Jackson Creative, a service center for people with disabilities, for 18 years. Four to five days a week, John does activities ranging from community volunteer work, including folding church bulletins, to attending music therapy at the University of Georgia.

“If the rates are reduced, [John’s] days will be cut down, and the quality of services will be cut down,’’ Pat Ellis said. “It’s such an important part of his day.’’

The Ellises were part of a huge crowd of people with disabilities, family members, consumer advocates and service providers who attended the three-hour hearing. The atmosphere at the event was often emotional.

The proposed rate changes are being considered by the board of the Department of Community Health, which runs Medicaid in the state.

The revisions were proposed after the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services required Georgia to review its rates under ‘‘waiver’’ services for thousands of people with developmental disabilities.

The new rate schedule was determined by a consulting firm that surveyed providers. State officials at the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) said most rates will actually be increasing, not decreasing.

Program providers have been involved throughout the process, said DBHDD spokesman Tom Wilson on Friday.

“No one is questioning the value of the services to the individuals receiving them,’’ Wilson said. “What’s at question is how much the people of Georgia should be expected to pay for them.’’ In some cases, he said, providers were spending 70 cents or less of each dollar on direct care.

The overflow crowd Thursday uniformly urged the state not to rush to change the rates. They called for either maintaining the current pay structure or taking more time to study the proposed changes. Many in the crowd wore stickers with “New Rate Models’’ crossed out.

Betty Peeples of Cartersville told state officials that her daughter Angela, 34, has benefited greatly from attending a day program for people with disabilities.

“I do not see [the pay reductions] as being good for anyone,’’ Peeples said. The cuts will affect jobs – both at service centers and for parents who will no longer be able to work, she said.

‘Do no harm’

Tojuan Hawkins, 36, who has autism, told the public hearing that his Lawrenceville day program allows him to have a job stringing and bundling shoelaces. He also does ceramics and artwork at Creative Enterprises, a training and employment program. “I don’t want anything to jeopardize my job,’’ he said.

Leigh McIntosh, executive director at Creative Enterprises, told GHN that the changes ‘‘could potentially put us out of business.’’

Elsewhere on Thursday, DBHDD Commissioner Frank Shelp told state lawmakers that the Community Health board would not take up the rate changes until March, instead of February as previously planned.

If the changes are approved, said DBHDD spokesman Wilson on Friday, they probably will not be implemented for more than a year.

Meanwhile, a bill has been introduced in the Georgia House that would require legislative approval for provider rate changes.

All About Developmental Disabilities, an advocacy group and services provider, said in a statement that it is ‘‘concerned with the overall instability to the provider community that any immediate changes to rates might cause. . . . More cuts to an already overburdened and under-resourced service system would pose concern for both individuals and family members and their ability to keep much-needed services.’’

Some developmentally disabled Georgians live in ‘‘host homes,’’ which for them are essentially what foster homes are for minors. This program is targeted for a rate cut.

Ryan Whitmire of Lutheran Services of Georgia, which provides host homes, told the Thursday hearing that the proposed reduction would cost his nonprofit $80,000. “It’s a huge hit,’’ he said.

Diane Wilush, president of the Service Providers Association for Developmental Disabilities, told state officials that program providers have not seen a rate increase in eight years.

“The underlying principle should be ‘Do no harm,’ ’’ she said.

Wilush urged state officials to ‘‘go back to the table, include providers and families . . . and properly support quality.’’

Bill Hogan said his 56-year-old son benefits from services from the DeKalb Community Service Board.

“Without these, he would not be able to live and work as he does,’’ Hogan told the hearing. If proposed rates go through, he said, “providers will have to discontinue services,’’ which he said would be ‘‘catastrophic’’ to people like his son.

Report calls for expanded Georgia Medicaid managed care

2012-01-27T15:54:00.001-05:00

Atlanta Business Chronicle

Dave Williams

A consultant is recommending Georgia enroll all of its Medicaid patients in managed care, including those now receiving traditional fee-for-service coverage.

A report released Friday by the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) suggests that more than 357,000 Medicaid recipients enrolled in fee for service – primarily the aged, blind and disabled – join the 1.1 million being covered through managed care.

The report, put together by Navigant Consulting, Inc. of Chicago, argues that aged, blind and disabled patients covered through fee-for-service plans don’t have access to care-management programs that provide chronic-care services they need more than most patient groups.

At the same time, the report maintains that streamlining Georgia Medicaid to a single coverage delivery system would reduce administrative costs.

“Now that the report has been delivered, we will begin our review and analysis … building on what is currently working and rebuilding what can be working better,” DCH Commissioner David Cook said.

“During this evaluation process, we will identify opportunities to eliminate unnecessary and costly bureaucratic red tape, ease administrative burdens, enhance efficiencies and improve access and health care outcomes.”

Navigant was awarded a $2 million contract last summer and spent the last several months of 2011 working on the report.

"Transportation and a More Livable Future"

2012-01-27T15:27:00.000-05:00

Watch “Transportation and a More Livable Future”

on WPBA Atlanta, Sunday, Jan. 29 at 9:30 a.m.

“Transportation and a More Livable Future” is the latest installment of the Atlanta Regional Commission’s quarterly public affairs television show. The show features a look at how local governments, ARC and others are planning for an Atlanta region that is as vibrant and promising 30 years from now as it is today. Viewers can learn more about the upcoming Regional Transportation Referendum on July 31. Studio guests include ARC Board Chair Tad Leithead, Norcross Mayor Bucky Johnson and Henry County Commission Chair B.J. Mathis who look at transportation and other factors that will shape the future of metro Atlanta. The show airs this Sunday, January 29th at 9:30 am on Atlanta's WPBA Channel 30.

Promo for “Transportation and a More Livable Future” from Atlanta Regional Commission on Vimeo.

Health Care Spikes Worry Georgia Lawmakers

2012-01-20T09:23:00.000-05:00

The Augusta Chronicle

Walter C. Jones

ATLANTA -- Saving the trickiest problems for last, legislative budget writers wrapped up three days of hearings on state spending needs learning about looming gaps in healthcare resources.

The House and Senate appropriations committees met jointly this week to get broad overviews of the money demands of the state’s largest agencies while the rest of the General Assembly was in recess. Monday, the House Appropriations Committee’s subcommittees will begin weeks of in-depth hearings to pore over the details of what Gov. Nathan Deal has recommended spending in each area.

Deal asked every agency to cut 2 percent of its expenditures next year, but he’s also calling on legislators to make big boosts in health care. For the Department of Community Health, he wants $437 million added next year and for the balance of the current fiscal year to cover rising health costs and the growing enrollment in the insurance plans for state workers, teachers and the poor. That includes enrolling the children of 21,000 state employees in the PeachCare for Kids insurance plan for children from low-income families.

Rep. Matt Dollar, R-Marietta, asked Community Health Commissioner David Cook about shaving costs by investigating bogus claims in the program for the poor, Medicaid.

“There is fraud and abuse out there,” Cook said, adding that the department recently recovered $46 million and won nine convictions from 54 people charged with Medicaid fraud.

“These are the bad guys. We need to ferret that out but not make it too onerous for the people who are providing legitimate services,” he said.

More troubling is the ballooning costs in the coming decade due to federal health reform requirements, said Rep. Mickey Channell, R-Greensboro.

He said the federal law will add 700,000 people to the state’s Medicaid roles, a 50 percent increase.

“Not to mention where are we going to get the doctors to treat them, but where are we going to get the money?” he asked.

Cook agreed the state’s seven-year cost could be $2.5 billion and then double over the following five years as federal funding for the expansion declines.

“It’s a huge unknown,” he said.

Another budget time bomb is the $62 billion in unfunded medical coverage for state retirees over the next 30 years, Cook said.

Also coming before lawmakers Thursday were the heads of the Department of Human Services, seeking $15 million and the Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities requesting $30 million.

Conversations that Matter: College Park

2012-01-19T13:46:00.000-05:00

Just a friendly reminder that there is still time to RSVP for the Conversations that Matter: College Park! We have extended the RSVP to January 20^th, 2012.

Meet with advocates and community leaders for a dialogue about individuals with developmental disabilities and the justice system.

Discuss current programs and practices in Georgia and your community and identify community-based alternatives to incarceration.

Receive updates on the Georgia Crisis System for individuals with developmental disabilities.

January 26, 2012

6:30pm-8:30pm College Park

South Fulton Service Center

5600 Stonewall Tell Road

College Park, GA 30049

To RSVP contact:

Yvette Pollard

sfcuorg@gmail.com

404-664-1393

NOW & COMP Waiver Proposed Rates

2012-01-17T16:36:00.000-05:00

If you or a family member receive the NOW or COMP Medicaid Waivers, you might want to review the Proposed Rates on the DCH website. These were just posted at the end of last week. Please note that they have a period for public comment that begins on January 26^th at 1pm at the Department of Community Health, 2 Peachtree Street, Fifth Floor Board room, and DCH will collect comments from citizens until February 2, 2012.

If you cannot attend in person, they ask that you submit comments to the Board of Community Health, Post Office Box 1966, Atlanta, Georgia 30303.Comments submitted will be available for review by the public at the Department of Community Health, Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., in Room 4053, 2 Peachtree Street, N.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30303.

2012 Partners in Policymaking

2012-01-10T14:57:00.005-05:00

Partners in Policymaking is an innovative leadership training opportunity designed to involve and empower people with developmental disabilities, parents of young children with disabilities and other family members. People with developmental disabilities and parents of young children with developmental disabilities are the primary target groups of the Partners program (However, other family members are strongly urged to apply.) Partners in Policymaking will primarily focus on two subjects: community building, and state-level advocacy.

The program seeks participants from varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds, different geographic regions of the state and various disabilities, as are persons not actively involved in existing advocacy efforts.

All About Developmental Disabilities will issue applications to interested individuals throughout the year. Thirty-five (35) persons will be selected to participate in the twentieth Partners class in Georgia. Scholarships for travel, childcare and personal assistance services needed for attendance at Partners sessions are available to all participants.

Partners will attend two weekend-long sessions (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). The first weekend will be held March 23^rd – 25^th, and the second weekend will be held April 20^th – 22^nd. Attendance is mandatory and all of the session’s dates will be announced prior to the deadline for applications. Both weekends will be held in Decatur, Georgia.

Advocates strengthen communities. The Partners program teaches the skills needed not only to affect change in individuals’ lives, but also for those people that walk behind. Graduates from Partners have gone on to serve their communities as: Regional Boards Chairperson, Director of the ADA Exchange, Organizers of parental support groups in local communities, members of state wide task forces, Coordinator of the Advocacy Alliance, coordinators and participants in many conferences related to issues of disability.

Partners will hear from subject matter experts on topics like the History of the Disability Movement, Building Accountability and Commitment, and Person Centered Planning during the first weekend. The second weekend will focus on state-level advocacy. Participants will understand the process of a bill becoming a law, the state budgeting process, and will meet with former legislators to help hone their advocacy skills.

The deadline to apply to the 2012 Partners in Policymaking course is February 1^st, 2012. To apply, click the link below.

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/VKDYVKF

For more information, please contact Ryan Johnson at rjohnson@aadd.org or 404-809-2927.

Some with Developmental Disabilities Lose Services

2012-01-09T11:22:00.002-05:00

Last spring, King’s 19-year-old son, Gerald Stephens, joined a growing number of Georgians with mental illness or developmental disabilities who have been discharged or are at risk of being cut off from a state program that has been a life line for thousands of elderly and disabled people for the past 15 years.

The program -- which provides housekeeping, transportation to adult day centers, care management and other services -- not only helps people avoid ending up in nursing homes but ultimately saves taxpayers money, advocates say. Caring for someone in the community costs thousands of dollars less each month than in a nursing home.

In 2007, however, a federal agency told the state it had to move the program known as SOURCE -- Service Options Using Resources in a Community Environment -- under a different umbrella. The new, more restrictive framework limited it to the elderly and physically disabled -- excluding some people who suffer from schizophrenia, Down syndrome, bipolar disorder, depression, and other mental and developmental disabilities.

"It's destroying people's lives," said Talley Wells, an Atlanta Legal Aid Society attorney who represents half a dozen individuals in danger of being eliminated who sued the state in 2010.

Under the more stringent rules, the state Department of Community Health has had to carefully reassess on a case-by-case basis whether SOURCE participants require a nursing home level of care. That includes people with physical disabilities whose health may have improved over time, said Catherine Ivy, deputy director of aging and special populations in the agency’s Medicaid division.

“The state is not discharging people because they have a mental illness or have a developmental disability,” Ivy said. “We agonize over these decisions.”

If the state doesn’t strictly follow the new guidelines for the Medicaid-funded program, it could risk losing federal money, she said, adding that SOURCE continues to serve mentally ill and developmentally disabled individuals who also have physical impairments. Those discharged keep their other Medicaid benefits, such as hospital and pharmacy services.

More than 19,000 Georgians receive services through SOURCE, which was launched in 1997. Through it, case managers and primary care doctors work together to coordinate individuals’ long-term care.

The average monthly cost to Medicaid per SOURCE participant totaled $1,538 in fiscal 2007, compared with placement in a nursing facility at $4,369, according to a state audit report. That year, SOURCE cost $92.3 million, with 62 percent paid by the federal government, the report shows.

Last year, in a letter to a top federal health official, Gov. Nathan Deal touted SOURCE as a model for fostering better coordination of care and preventing unnecessary long-term institutionalization, while improving cost efficiency and people’s well-being.

The loss of services comes at the same time Georgia is also shelling out tens of millions of dollars to move mentally ill and developmentally disabled people out of state institutions -- an effort spurred by a U.S. Department of Justice investigation into the abuse and deaths of dozens of mental hospital patients. A series of articles by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution uncovered the abuse starting in 2007.

The Department of Community Health said it doesn't have information on how many people with mental illness or developmental disabilities have been discharged from SOURCE. But Wells said his office has received calls weekly since the beginning of 2010 from families in danger of losing funding, and he estimates hundreds could be affected.

The department reassesses annually whether people still qualify for the program, and those discharged are given 30 days' notice. Workers help those discharged to find alternative services.

Mental health services in Georgia have long been underfunded, leaving programs such as SOURCE as safety valves, said Hunter Hurst, the founder of the program and director of the St. Joseph’s/Candler health system’s Georgia Infirmary in Savannah. Limited dollars along with strict Medicaid funding guidelines have presented challenges, Hurst said.

“The rules really are very, very specific as to who can get which service,” he said. “Is the service they qualify for going to serve them well?”

Community-based care makes both good medical and fiscal sense by keeping people healthy -- eliminating avoidable and expensive hospital visits -- said Thomas Bornemann, director of the Carter Center’s mental health program. A person with mental illness who has a chronic illness such as diabetes could end up in the emergency department in danger of having a limb amputated, which costs a lot more money than preventive care, Bornemann said.

At the same time, Medicaid programs across the country have been under an intense spotlight as states increasingly face fiscal pressures and are looking for ways to be more efficient, Bornemann said.

For King, the SOURCE discharge notice came as a shock.

“I thought they were joking,” she said, adding that the department didn’t help connect her with other services. “It’s pushed us back a lot.”

Without a caregiver to watch Gerald, who needs constant monitoring, King is only able to work a couple of days or so each week when her adult daughter can help out.

King, who also has an 11-year-old son, has scraped together enough money to keep the lights on so far, but it’s unclear how she’ll be able to keep paying rent. Gerald recently became eligible for a different Medicaid-funded program for the developmentally disabled, but thousands of people are on the waiting list, said Wells, who is working with the family.

Evette King recently sat in her south Atlanta home fretting about how she could avoid eviction without someone to watch, feed and bathe her severely autistic son so she can work and pay the bills.

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is doing what it can to help people affected by the changes to SOURCE find housing, but resources are limited, spokesman Tom Wilson said.

The agency is overseeing the roll-out of new services under the Justice Department settlement, which some former SOURCE recipients might be eligible for if they’re often readmitted to hospitals or in danger of becoming homeless, Wilson said.

“It is difficult," he said, "when [someone] lacks a stable home to maintain recovery.”

By Misty Williams

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Conversations that Matter: Savannah

2012-01-06T09:20:00.000-05:00

Just a friendly reminder! Due to the holidays, we have extended the deadline to RSVP for the Savannah Conversations that Matter to Sunday January 8^th, 2012.

Conversations That Matter: Justice and Developmental Disabilities

Meet with advocates and community leaders for a dialogue about individuals with developmental disabilities and the justice system.

Discuss current programs and practices in Georgia and your community and identify community-based alternatives to incarceration.

Receive updates on the Georgia Crisis System for individuals with developmental disabilities.

January 12, 2012

6:30pm-8:30pm Savannah

The Armstrong Center

Armstrong Atlantic State University

13040 Abercorn Street

Savannah, Georgia 31419-1997

The deadline to RSVP has been extended to 12:00pm Sunday, January 8th. To RSVP, contact:

Jennifer McGee, 912-355-9098

jennifermcgee@comcast.net

Mary Poncy, 912-272-2774

maryponcy@msbees.com

RSVP Deadline for Savannah Conversations that Matter Extended

2011-12-29T16:32:00.002-05:00

Please Join Us!

Conversations That Matter:

Justice and Developmental Disabilities

Meet with advocates and community leaders for a dialogue about individuals with developmental disabilities and the justice system.
Discuss current programs and practices in Georgia and your community and identify community-based alternatives to incarceration.
Receive updates on the Georgia Crisis System for individuals with developmental disabilities.

January 12, 2012

6:30pm-8:30pm Savannah

The Armstrong Center

Armstrong Atlantic State University

13040 Abercorn Street

Savannah, Georgia 31419-1997

The deadline to RSVP has been extended to 12:00pm Sunday, January 8th.

Jennifer McGee, 912-355-9098

jennifermcgee@comcast.net

Mary Poncy, 912-272-2774

maryponcy@msbees.com

Please send to those in your network that you feel should be invited to the discussion. If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact Heidi Fernandez.

Sponsored by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Division of Developmental Disabilities. Presented by All About Developmental Disabilities.

SAVE THE DATE!

2011-12-22T14:25:00.005-05:00

Save the Date!

Conversations That Matter:

Justice and Developmental Disabilities

· Meet with advocates and community leaders for a dialogue about individuals with developmental disabilities and the justice system.

· Discuss current programs and practices in Georgia and your community and identify community-based alternatives to incarceration.

· Receive updates on the Georgia Crisis System for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Jan. 12, 2012

6:30pm-8:30pm Savannah

The Armstrong Center

Armstrong Atlantic State University

13040 Abercorn Street

Savannah, Georgia 31419-1997

RSVP by January 1^st:

Jennifer McGee, 912-355-9098

Jennifermcgee4@comcast.net

Mary Poncy, 912-272-2774

maryponcy@msbees.com

Jan. 26, 2012

6:30pm-8:30pm College Park

South Fulton Service Center

5600 Stonewall Tell Road

College Park, GA 30049

RSVP by January 16th

Yvette Pollard, 404-664-1393

sfcuorg@gmail.com

Feb.9, 2012 11:30am-1:30pm Gainesville

The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy

2719 Tumbling Creek Road

Gainesville, GA 30504

RSVP by January 31st

Marty Owens, 678-617-5527

martyowens@bellsouth.net

Scott Crain, 770-540-4479

ScottCrain@hallco.org

Feb. 21, 2012 6:30pm-8:30pm Kennesaw

North Star Church

3413 Blue Springs Rd

Kennesaw, GA 30144

RSVP by February 11th

Reda Fricks Vanness, 404-226-7524

rfricks@cobbcsb.com

Lisa Elrod

Lisaelrod123@bellsouth.net

Please send to those in your network that you feel should be invited to the discussion. If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact Heidi Fernandez.

Sponsored by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Division of Developmental Disabilities. Presented by All About Developmental Disabilities

We are now accepting applications for the 2012 Partners in Policymaking Training

2011-12-09T16:45:00.001-05:00

We are now accepting applications for our 2012 Partners in Policymaking class. Partners in Policymaking is an innovative leadership training opportunity designed to involve and empower people with developmental disabilities, parents of young children with disabilities and other family members. People with developmental disabilities and parents of young children with developmental disabilities are the primary target groups of the Partners program.

Partners in Policymaking will be held March 23^rd-25^th and April 20^th-22^nd in Decatur, GA. The deadline to apply for this program is February 1^st, 2012. Each applicant is required to submit a one page letter of recommendation from a leader in your community. Scholarships are available for childcare, mileage, and personal supports.

Participants will hear from subject-matter experts on a variety of topics that relate to the issue of developmental disabilities. In March, participants will hear from Guy Caruso on the History of the Disability Movement as well as People First Language. We also have a speaker coming to talk about building accountability and commitment and Stacey Ramirez will be there to talk about Person Centered Planning.

If you are interested in becoming a leader in your community on disability issues, you should strongly consider becoming involved with Partners in Policymaking. You can access the online application here, and you may also contact Ryan Johnson at rjohnson@aadd.org with any questions. To read more about Partners, please visit our website.

SAVE THE DATE! Conversations that Matter

2011-12-06T12:26:00.001-05:00

Save the Date

Conversations That Matter: Justice and Developmental

Disabilities

· Meet with advocates and community leaders for a dialogue about individuals with developmental disabilities and the justice system.

· Discuss current programs and practices in Georgia and your community and identify community-based alternatives to incarceration.

· Receive updates on the NEW Georgia Crisis System.

Jan. 12, 2012 6:30pm-8:30pm Savannah

Jan. 26, 2012 6:30pm-8:30pm College Park

Feb.9, 2012 11:30am-1:30pm Gainesville

Feb. 21, 2012 – 6:30pm-8:30pm Kennesaw

Watch for news on locations and final details soon!

For more information please contact Heidi Fernandez hcf67@comcast.net

Sponsored by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Division of Developmental Disabilities and Presented by All About Developmental Disabilities

Congratulations to Nandi Isaac!

2011-11-30T14:43:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Nandi Isaac of Macon for being named Buddy of the Year by Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta Oct. 19 at the Buddy Walk! Nandi has developed her own “micro-enterprise” where as the sole proprietor, she preserves people’s documents, special photographs and other things that people want to save. Nandi lives independently with roommates. She works hard at her business to realize the American Dream of owning her own place in the future. Nandi, although legally blind, participates in ice skating, bowling, basketball skills, equestrian and sailing! A Global Messenger for SOGA, she travels with her mother speaking to groups about self-advocacy and sharing her inspirational story.

Adopt an AADD Family for the Holidays!

2011-11-22T15:06:00.000-05:00

Betty is a single mother of four children who is living with a developmental disability. Before Betty came to AADD three years ago, she was unemployed and had lost her children to the court system. Today, with AADD's help, Betty has found a job at Kroger, is involved with AADD parenting support groups and has been reunited with her children. In her spare time, Betty enjoys spending time with her children, watching movies and going out to eat when she can.

Despite all of the positive changes in Betty's life, she does not have the resources to provide for her children during the holiday season. Betty is a caring mother who remains optimistic that her life will continue to change for the better. She dreams of one day owning a home and living independently with her children.

Betty's only holiday wish is to provide gifts for her children.

AADD still has nine families who want to be adopted for the holiday season! You can help make holiday wishes come true for Betty and others like her through AADD's Annual Holiday Adopt a Family initiative. When you adopt an AADD family, you will give the gift of joy to some very deserving families living with developmental disabilities. Your donations of food, gift cards, clothing, toys and household essentials will create a holiday celebration that will be remembered for years to come.

Your support will help meet the basic needs of every family we serve for the holiday season. It is only through the generosity of people like you that we can make this happen. To learn how you can sponsor one of the amazing families AADD is proud to serve, please contact Suzie Fatkin at suzie@aadd.org or (404) 881-9777 extension 205.

Advocating For Your Child's Education

2011-11-17T14:31:00.001-05:00

We currently have 19 boxes of Jean Estes’ book Advocating For Your Child’s Education at our office. We have them in both English and Spanish versions. If you would like to reserve and pick up a couple of boxes, please let Ryan Johnson know so he can set them aside for you to pick them up.

To contact Ryan Johnson, you can email him at rjohnson@aadd.org or call him at 404-881-9777 ext. 217

Adopt an AADD Family for the Holidays!

2011-11-11T11:18:00.001-05:00

Tara is a single mother of three children who is living with a developmental disability. Before Tara came to AADD four years ago, she was homeless, using drugs and living with the pain of sickle cell anemia. Today, with AADD's help, Tara has moved into an apartment, receives SSI (Supplemental Security Income), is involved with WAVE (Women Against Violence and Exploitation) and AADD parenting support groups. She has been drug-free for four years. In her spare time, Tara enjoys spending time with her children, attending church services, watching movies and going out to eat when she can.

Despite all of the positive changes in Tara's life, she is still unemployed and does not have the resources to provide for her children during the holiday season. Tara is a sweet mother who remains optimistic that her life will continue to change for the better. She dreams of learning to become a better reader and going to college.

Tara's only holiday wish is to provide gifts for her children.

AADD still has 14 families who need to be adopted for the holiday season! You can help make holiday wishes come true for Tara and others like her through AADD's Annual Holiday Adopt a Family initiative. When you adopt an AADD family, you will give the gift of joy to some very deserving families living with developmental disabilities. Your donations of food, gift cards, clothing, toys and household essentials will create a holiday celebration that will be remembered for years to come.

With your support, we can help meet the basic needs of every family we serve for the holiday season. It is only through the generosity of people like you we can make this happen. To learn how you can sponsor one of the amazing families AADD is proud to serve, please contact Suzie Fatkin at (404) 881-9777 extension 205.

2011-11-01T09:32:00.000-04:00

Georgia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities
Frank E. Shelp, M.D., M.P.H., Commissioner
Beverly D. Rollins, M.P.A., Assistant Commissioner
Division of Developmental Disabilities
Two Peachtree Street NW, Suite 22.210, Atlanta, Georgia 30303-3142 Telephone: 404-463-8037

TRAINING ANNOUNCEMENT

FY12 DD NOW and COMP Waiver Series: Financial Support Services Training

This training is designed to enhance the attendees’ knowledge and understanding of Financial Support Services (FSS) as required under the Participant Direction service delivery option for the NOW and COMP waivers. Attendees will be introduced to the current FSS provider and two (2) newly enrolled FSS providers for Georgia Waiver Programs. The intended audience is primarily for individuals/representatives who currently self-direct their NOW/COMP waivers services and for NOW/COMP waiver participants who may choose to self-direct services in the future. DD family members, Advocates, Support Coordinators and Planning List Administrators are welcome to attend but must register. This training series is NOT intended for existing and/or potential Medicaid PROVIDERS. This training series will be facilitated by Doris E. Johnson, M.P.P., Program Administrator for the Division of Developmental Disabilities. The presenters will be representatives from each of the three (3) Fiscal Agents currently enrolled to provide Financial Support Services (FSS): Acumen Fiscal Agent, LLC, ASI Works, Inc. and Public Partnerships, LLC (PPL). These sessions will be conducted in multiple locations throughout the state in November and December. Training will begin at 9:30am and end at 3:00pm; sign-in begins at 9:00 am.

For training dates and locations, please click here

AADD Volunteer Orientation

2011-10-25T13:21:00.003-04:00

Do you want to make a difference in your community? Are you passionate about helping others? Do you enjoy having fun while doing good?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, we enthusiastically invite you to attend AADD's first volunteer orientation of the year!

Orientation Details

November 8, 2011

1440 Dutch Valley Place Suite 200

Atlanta, GA 30324

6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Please join us to learn more about the exciting volunteer opportunities available at AADD! RSVP to Suzie Fatkin by Monday, November 7.

Adopt an AADD Family for the Holidays!

2011-10-19T13:44:00.000-04:00

Lakela is a single mother of six children who is living with a developmental disability. Before she came to AADD, she was homeless, using drugs, and had lost her children to the court system because of her addiction. Today, with AADD's help, she has moved into an apartment, been drug-free for two years, and trained in custodial work at Good Will.

Despite all of the positive changes in Lakela's life, she is still unemployed and has no other income except the $200 she receives each month in food stamps. Lakela remains optimistic that her life will continue to change for the better. She dreams that she will one day be reunited with all of her children and will be able to support them with a steady job.

Lakela's only holiday wish is to provide gifts for her children.

You can help make holiday wishes come true for Lakela and others like her through AADD's Annual Holiday Adopt a Family initiative. When you adopt an AADD family, you will give the gift of joy to some very deserving families living with developmental disabilities. Your donations of food, gift cards, clothing, toys, and household essentials will create a holiday celebration that will be remembered for years to come.

With your support, we can help meet the basic needs of every family we serve for the holiday season. It is only through the generosity of people like you we can make this happen. To learn how you can sponsor one of the amazing families AADD is proud to serve, please contact Suzie Fatkin at (404) 881-9777 extension 205.

Action Alert! ADAPT

2011-10-14T09:16:00.002-04:00

Today (Friday, October 14th), groups from across the country are calling Congress and sending the message that My Medicaid Matters!

FamiliesUSA has provided a toll free phone number you can use to call your Congressional Representative.

This alert will take LESS THAN FIVE MINUTES but will make a BIG DIFFERENCE!

1. CALL 866-922-4970 and ask to be connected to your member's office.

2. TELL THEM: "I'm calling because I want Representative ________ to contact the super committee and tell them that s/he opposes cuts to Medicaid. Medicaid is important because it pays for home and community-based services that support seniors and people with disabilities so they can live in the community. Medicaid also funds jobs for direct care workers who provide these long term services and supports. I want my representative to actively oppose Medicaid cuts because my Medicaid matters."

3. FORWARD THIS EMAIL to your family, friends, and other contacts asking them to take action too.

Thank you!

ADAPT

Autistic Man Arrested at Whole Foods for ‘Acting Odd

2011-10-06T12:25:00.001-04:00

OCTOBER 4, 2011

150Share

DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) – Blake Wimberly lives in the dark, gripped by paranoia.

The 28-year-old hides inside his small Dallas apartment because of fear that police will arrest him wherever he goes.

“I see a cop right there, so that tells me that I should not be going outside not for nothing.”

Wimberly is both autistic and schizophrenic, so he struggles with self-control.

Despite his condition, Blake has progressed enough to live on his own. But his mother, Lori Lux, says a trip to a grocery store started a downward spiral. “I see a man who has shut down,” she said.

The incident happened on April 28 at a Whole Foods store on Park Lane.

Police reports say Blake was ‘acting odd,’ leading to customer complaints.

Officers were called, and Blake was told to get out of an unauthorized area or be arrested. His response to officers was: “No, I have to call my mom.”

That refusal led to Wimberly’s arrest for criminal trespassing even though he wore a medical alert bracelet and told officers about his condition.

“I told them I had autism and he told me basically I was a liar.”

“I asked them repeatedly, was he violent? Did he ever threaten? No, they all told me no he was just odd,” Lux said.

She says she was in the shower when police called her that morning, but no one answered when she called back.

It was more than 12 hours later when she was able to bring Blake home from jail. “I was mistreated in jail,” Blake said.

“They have just totally turned our lives upside down for no reason,” added Lux.

In a statement, Whole Foods defended the store’s actions, saying Blake was quote, “Running up and down the aisles and repeatedly going into areas of the store that are employee-only.”

A spokesperson says Dallas police officers made the decision alone to take Blake to jail. Department officials did not return our calls for comment.

Since the arrest, Blake relies on his mother for trips to grocery stores, but still has a compulsion to visit them.

But the experience has made him fearful and reclusive. “I miss being welcome into places.”

In criminal trespassing cases, DPD officers have the discretion to either issue a citation or make an arrest. Blake’s family says they are planning to file a lawsuit over what happened.

AADD's 1956 Like Us Campaign Update

2011-10-05T15:24:00.001-04:00

Dear Valued Supporters and Friends,

Since the launch of our 1956 Facebook Campaign to celebrate our 55th year of service to the community, 137 people have "liked" us on Facebook. So far, 893 people like us, and we still have 1,063 to go!

Will you help us reach our goal to get 1,956 people to "like" AADD? All you have to do is go to our Facebook Page and click the "Like" button at the top. Share our page and encourage your Facebook friends to like AADD as well!

Each week, we will feature contests and a chance to win prizes, so visit often to see what's new.

Thank you for your ongoing support!

Seabaugh to exit state senate for job in Deal adminstration

2011-10-04T10:24:00.000-04:00

By Aaron Gould Sheinin

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Seabaugh, who led the Senate's recent work to redraw the state's political maps, will report to new state treasurer Steve McCoy, who is being promoted from the deputy's position. Seabaugh leaves the Senate after serving 10 years. Gov. Nathan Deal announced Monday that state Sen. Mitch Seabaugh, R-Sharpsburg, will be the next deputy state treasurer. Seabaugh has a bachelor's degree in Accounting from Southern Arkansas University and served as chief financial officer for a company in Newnan. Deal today will issue a writ to set a special election for Seabaugh's District 28 seat on Nov. 8. McCoy has been deputy treasurer since August. From 1997-2010 he ran an investment advisory firm that worked with state and local governments.

An Expensive Fight Over a Boy With Autism

2011-09-26T15:14:00.000-04:00

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

By Alan Judd

When the police came, Stefan Ferrari’s teacher described Oct. 21, 2008, in her classroom for autistic children as “a regular, ordinary day.”

Perhaps it was, except for the tiny digital recorder sewn into the collar of Stefan’s shirt.

The device, planted by Stefan’s mother, collected eight hours and 19 minutes of sound, much of it the banality of yet another school day for a non-verbal 10-year-old. It also captured the teacher and her colleagues talking about sex and martinis. It picked up the teacher’s teasing Stefan after he ate pizza from the trash. And it chronicled the threat of a “be-quiet hit” to a crying child, followed by the repeated slaps of an adult’s hand against Stefan’s bottom.

That single day in an Atlanta classroom led to lawsuits in state and federal courts, to the teacher’s firing, to threats of criminal charges — against Stefan’s parents — and, finally, to what may have been the inevitable fracture of the boy’s family. Atlanta Public Schools spent $1.1 million of taxpayers’ money fighting Stefan’s family in court before agreeing this summer to pay private school tuition and therapeutic expenses into his adulthood.

For more on this story, click here

AADD's 1956 Like Us Campaign Update

2011-09-23T11:32:00.002-04:00

Since the launch of our 1956 Facebook Campaign to celebrate our 55th year of service to the community,

124 people have "liked" us on Facebook. Our goal is to get 1,956 people to "like" AADD and reach as many people as we can in order to continuously educate the community about our services and events.

If you haven't liked AADD already, it's quick and very easy! All you have to do is go to our Facebook Page and click the "Like" button at the top. Share our page and encourage your Facebook "friends" to like AADD!

Each week, we will feature contests and a chance to win prizes, so visit often to see what's new.

Thank you for your ongoing support!

Partners in Policymaking Reunion

2011-09-21T12:33:00.002-04:00

I wanted to extend to you a friendly reminder that the deadline to apply for the Partners in Policymaking Reunion is quickly approaching. We are excited to bring the best advocates in Georgia together to continue our learning and to celebrate our many successes. We have developed an agenda that we feel will continue to strengthen our advocacy skills and an early evening reception to celebrate all that you do to advocate for people with disabilities.

We have planned an All Star Conversations That Matter discussion which will include Beverley Rollins. Also included will be sessions on Social Media and how to use it to better leverage our advocacy efforts, Hot Issues for the 2012 Legislative Session, and a Wellness for Advocates segment that will help us to live strong as an advocate.

Friday, November 4, 2011

9:30am-5:30pm Training

5:30pm-7:30pm Reception

Peachtree Christian Church

1580 Peachtree St. NW

Atlanta, Georgia 30309

Please register by October 7, 2011 at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/798CRB7. The registration fee is $25.00. Limited scholarships are available for Childcare, Personal Support, Registration, Mileage and Transportation. We have limited space, so please sign up early. If you have any questions, please email Ryan Johnson at rjohnson@aadd.org or call 404-881-9777 x 217.

Don’t miss out. Register today!

2011-09-21T12:19:00.000-04:00

Georgia Senate Majority

Invite you to attend

"Georgia Solutions Summit"

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

7:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Country Club of Roswell

2500 Club Springs Dr.

Roswell, GA 30076

Senate Republicans believe the best ideas and solutions begin at home, not in Atlanta. With this in mind, we invite you to attend "Georgia Solutions Summits" across Georgia this summer and fall. Georgians are encouraged to meet informally with Senators and share positive solutions for Georgia's challenges.

Please join your state Senator John Albers, Senate Leadership and other Senators from around the state to share your ideas and issues facing your districts. Together we can make Georgia the most prosperous state in America.

Security Guard Removes Woman Over Seeing-Eye Dog

2011-09-21T09:34:00.000-04:00

WINDER, Ga. -- A Barrow County woman said she suffered bruises and a minor shoulder injury after a guard at a Social Security office tried to remove her because of her service dog.

"He provides my independence. He basically serves as my eyes," Melissa McMann said, of the yellow lab named Hurbie, her trained service dog.

McMann suffers from a degenerative retinal condition.

"In places like dark buildings, I virtually have no sight," McMann told Channel 2 Action News reporter Manuel Bojorquez.

She said she is accustomed to questions about where the dog can and cannot go. So she's researched the law and said, as a service dog, Hurbie is entitled to go where most of the public is allowed.

That was challenged Sept. 15, when her husband drove her to the Social Security office in Winder and, she said, a guard asked for the dog's papers.

"I proceeded to tell him that he doesn't have papers but that he's wearing his harness and he's a certified seeing-eye dog," she said.

The dog's harness is marked with the name of the school where he trained and the message, "Ignore me. I'm a working dog."

McMann said the law does not require a need to provide documentation. So, she asked the guard to provide in writing to her and her husband the law he was citing. That's when the disagreement escalated.

McMann said the guard grabbed her wrist, then her upper arm and forced her from the chair in which she was sitting.

"When he started to grab my wife, that is when I called the police," said McMann’s husband, Chris.

According to a Winder police report, the incident left her with bruises and a minor shoulder injury.

The guard involved in the incident, Leroy Huff, told Bojorquez he was simply following orders and acted based on training but that he could not say more because the case is under investigation.

Winder police said there is an arrest warrant for battery against Huff and that he plans to turn himself in.

A Social Security representative provided the following statement: "Service animals are allowed in Social Security field offices. We have apologized to Ms. McMann for the unfortunate incident that occurred with the contract security guard in our Winder field Office.”

"The guard is a contracted worker from a security company used by the Department of Homeland Security. We referred this matter to the Federal Protective Service of the Department of Homeland Security for appropriate action," the statement said.

Mr. McMann said they're speaking out to bring awareness to the issues of those who must use service animals.

"The laws are very clear, if you know them but even if they're not, you would think that common sense would prevail," he said.

Disabled Activists Protest Medicaid Cuts at White House

2011-09-19T13:10:00.001-04:00

For Immediate Release Contact: Janine Bertram (503) 622-6387

September 19, 2011 Bruce Darling (585) 370-6690

Marsha Katz (406) 544-9504

MEDICAID DISABILITY ACTIVISTS AT WHITE HOUSE GATES

AS PRESIDENT PRESENTS DEBT PLAN

Washington, DC---As the President unveiled his debt plan this morning, hundreds of activists with disabilities stormed the White House to demand a voice in the structuring of Medicaid reform. ADAPT, the national disability rights direct action group, is asking the administration to work with them to ensure that Medicaid dollars are invested in cost-saving community supports.

“The President says that he expects all Americans to share the burden of controlling the budget, but Medicaid recipients are already shouldering the burden for balancing budgets at the state level,” said Randy Alexander of Memphis ADAPT. “States have already made significant cuts to Medicaid. How many more people with disabilities and seniors must lose our basic freedoms and lives in order to have done our share?”

Bruce Darling, an ADAPT organizer from Rochester, New York, pointed out that states have already reduced or eliminated vital home care services and forced seniors and people with disabilities into nursing facilities against their will. “People are already experiencing reduced or eliminated access to basic healthcare, including medications. Jobs have already been eliminated for home care and direct care workers.”

ADAPT recognizes the need for new tax revenue and supports the President’s proposed so-called “millionaire’s tax.” Unlike Congressional Republicans who believe the burden of deficit reduction should only come from spending cuts to critical programs like Medicaid, the President has called for $1.5 trillion in new tax revenue.

ADAPT has reached out to the White House and Congress to offer proposals on how we can contain Medicaid spending that wouldn’t negatively impact on Medicaid beneficiaries. The ADAPT Community has identified four principles for real Medicaid reform:

• Expand the use of community-based services

• Demedicalize services

• Expand consumer directed service options

• Reorganize Medicaid services to eliminate wasteful bureaucracy

“We are calling on the administration to work with us to promote the inclusion of these reforms,” said Cassie James Holdsworth of Philadelphia ADAPT. “People have suffered enough in institutional settings. We want the President to invest in consumer-directed community based services as part of his deficit plan.”

Details of ADAPT’s REAL Medicaid Reform proposals can be found on the ADAPT website at www.adapt.org.

AADD 1956 Like Us Campaign

2011-09-08T10:22:00.000-04:00

Hello Friends of AADD,

Did you know that All About Developmental Disabilities turned 55 this year? AADD has been providing support services to families since 1956. In celebration of this milestone, we are launching our 1956 Facebook Campaign. Our goal is to get 1,956 people to "like" AADD on Facebook and reach as many people as we can in order to continuously educate the community about our services and events.

In order to successfully pull this off, we need your help. It's quick and very easy! All you have to do is go to our Facebook Page and click the "Like" button at the top of the page. By liking AADD, you can stay informed about disability issues within the Metro Atlanta area and throughout the State of Georgia. We also welcome your comments and feedback. Another way you can help is by spreading the word and encouraging your Facebook "friends" to like our page as well!

Each week, we will feature contests and a chance to win prizes, so visit often to see what's new.

Thanks for your ongoing support!

ADAPT Medicaid Rally

2011-09-07T10:06:00.002-04:00

Capitol Hill Washington, DC

September 21st at Noon

Medicaid is on the table for arbitrary and draconian cuts. The disability and aging communities must show Congress that "My Medicaid Matters" by having thousands show up on Capitol Hill on September 21st for a "Rally for Real Medicaid Reform".

So far, EVERY plan to address entitlements has included cuts to Medicaid. NONE has included reform measures proposed by the disability rights community. Make YOUR voice heard in Washington! Join disability, aging and civil rights groups in Washington DC on Capitol Hill, Wednesday September 21st starting at Noon. Rain or shine!

Thanks to the organizations sponsoring this Rally.

State Organizing

If we are going to be able to get strong numbers of our folks out to the Rally, we need strong organizing at the state level. We are looking for people to be local/state coordinators. Volunteering to be a local/state coordinator means you commit to the following:

Disseminate information about the Rally to folks in your state;
Outreach in your state to get people to attend; and
Work to assist and promote, in any way you can, participation from your area.

If you are interested contact:
Bob Kafka, bob.adapt@sbcglobal.net, 512/431-4085
Stephanie Thomas stephanie.adapt@sbcglobal.net 512/442-0252.

Check out our list of state organizers who are working on grassroots turn-out efforts.

Resources for Organizers

Media Materials
It's important that people all over the country know about the rally. Here are media materials that you can use to promote the rally. We are also providing the My Medicaid Matters rally logo in a number of different sizes for your use. Consider posting the logo on your group's website to show your support for Medicaid and the rally!

Promotional Materials
We have prepared flyers that organizers can use to promote the rally. Feel free to print them to distribute them locally. Both English and Spanishversions of the flyer are provided. You can start your state organizing with an introductory email. Here's a sample email prepared for New York State.

Travel to Washington DC
ADAPT has compiled information on travel options to Washington DC to get you started.

Hotels
ADAPT has compiled a list of hotels near the Rally site. They are organized by published rate (with the least expensive first) to make the process easier for folks to find hotel rooms.

Fund Raising
Clearly, groups need funds in order to participate in the Rally. ADAPT of Texas has prepared a sample fund raising letter that you can modify for your own use. Some groups use a simple flyer that folks can use to get funds. The look of the document is not as important as providing an opportunity for people to ASK.

Bus and Motorcoach Information for Groups
Here is some information on bus and motorcoach drop off locations and parking for the Rally.

Other Information Here is a link to an interactive map for the Rally and DC area. For those travelling into the rally, people can be dropped off:

where First Street NW connects with Pennsylvannia Avenue NW or
at First Street NW by the Capitol Reflecting Pool

For those that require a street adddress with a number, the US Botanic Gardens are nearby at 100 Maryland Ave SW. It's only a block from the rally site.

Financial Sponsorship Opportunities

Rally organizers are looking for organizations that can help by providing
financial sponsorship of the rally. If you are interested in supporting the My Medicaid Matters Rally for Real Medicaid Reform, you can send donations to:

Disabled in Action
714 Market Street, Suite 310
Philadelphia, PA 19106

Thanks to DIA of Pennsylvannia for being the fiscal sponsor of the rally!

Resources for Advocates

ADAPT has identified ways we can contain Medicaid spending while providing freedom and greater independence to people with disabilities. Check out
ADAPT's Medicaid Savings Ideas.

Additional Information

For more information, call us toll free at 877-237-2228 or email us at rally@cdrnys.org rally@cdrnys.org. You can also check out our event listing on Facebook.

Comedian Tells 'Special Needs' Joke at Palin Event

2011-09-06T14:55:00.000-04:00

TRENDING: Comedian tells 'special needs' joke at Palin event

By: CNN's Dan Merica

Washington (CNN) - In comedy, timing is everything.

And minutes before Sarah Palin, former Alaska governor and parent of a child with Down syndrome, made her much-anticipated speech in Iowa, Los Angeles-based comedian Eric Golub told a joke that compared liberal political ideology to “special needs children.”

After commending Palin on raising her son Trig while balancing other responsibilities, Golub made the analogy.

“For that reason alone, the left should worship Sarah Palin and adopt her as one of their own,” Golub said. “Because the leftist haters are an entire political ideology of special needs children.”

Golub continued by saying that liberals are needy and feel entitled.

“And unlike Trig, they aren't very lovable,” Golub said. “All you hear from them is give me, give me, I need, I need, I want, I deserve, I’m entitled – no you don’t.”

Since announcing she had a child with Down syndrome in 2008, Palin has defended the special needs community in a number of instances.

In February 2010, Palin called for Rahm Emanuel, then-White House chief of staff, to be fired after he called liberal groups thinking of running ads against Democratic lawmakers “retarded.”

When an episode of Fox’s “Family Guy” mocked Trig that same month, Palin wrote in a post to her Facebook followers that it felt like “a kick in the gut.”

She also included a response to the "Family Guy" episode from her daughter, Bristol Palin.

“As a culture, shouldn’t we be more compassionate to innocent people – especially those who are less fortunate,” Bristol wrote. “Shouldn’t we be willing to say that some things just are not funny?”

Palin never mentioned the remark while speaking at the tea party-affiliated “Restoring America” rally in Indianola, Iowa.

Charlie Gruschow, co-founder of Tea Party of America, said he never heard the comment or met the comedian before the event.

"Some of the people on staff had heard him speak before and thought he would be a good person to break up and entertain the crowd," Gruschow said.

This isn't the first time Golub made the comment. He also used it while speaking at a 2010 convention for the conservative organization Young America's Foundation.

Palin's team could not be reached for comment.

CNN's Ashley Killough contributed to this report.

Upcoming Open Captioning Performances

2011-08-25T14:58:00.001-04:00

FOX Open Captioning Performances:

Wicked, Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 2:00pm
How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 8:00pm
Memphis, Saturday, February 4, 2012 at 8:00pm
Billy Elliot, Saturday, March 17, 2012 at 8:00pm
Les Miserables, Saturday, April 28, 2012 at 8:00pm
Jersey Boys, Saturday, May 26, 2012 at 8:00pm

Alliance Theater Open Captioning Performances:

Into the Woods, Saturday, September 17, 2011 at 2:30 pm
Golda’s Balcony, Saturday, October 15, 2011 at 2:30 pm
The Real Tweenagers of Atlanta, Saturday, November 5, 2011 at 2:30 pm
A Christmas Carol, Saturday, November 26, 2011 at 2:30 pm
God of Carnage, Saturday, January 14, 2012 at 2:30 pm
The Wizard of Oz, Saturday, March 3, 2012 at 2:30 pm
Ghost Brothers of Darkland County, Saturday, April 7, 2012 at 2:30 pm

For more on Open Captioning Performances click here

Atlanta Regional Roundtable of the ARC

2011-08-24T14:10:00.000-04:00

From John Keys, GCDD and SILC:

The 12 Regional Commissions in Georgia have compiled their Constrained Project Lists and these are found at the following web link:

http://www.it3.ga.gov/Pages/Legislation.aspx

Simply click on the “View Lists” item on this link, go to your region, and view the project list. Scroll down below the listing of all Regional Commissions (R.C.’s), and you will see the meetings scheduled for all the R.C.’s.

These meeting times will change as we get closer to the October deadline, so keep checking on when meetings are held in your community. Call the R.C. in your area (click on their name on the listing on the web link to get contact information) to stay up to date or to get more information.

Transportation Investment Act - Regional Roundtable

2011-08-24T11:01:00.000-04:00

Atlanta Regional Roundtable

Public Meetings in September, 2011

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

5:00 - 7:00 pm

Douglas County

Citizens Hall, Douglas County Courthouse

8700 Hospital Drive

Douglasville, GA 30134

770-949-2000

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

6:00 - 8:00 pm

Henry County

Administration Offices

140 Henry Parkway

McDonough, GA 30253

770-288-6000

Thursday, September 15, 2011

6:00 - 8:00 pm

City of Atlanta

Council Chambers

55 Trinity Avenue

Atlanta, GA 30303

404-330-6030

Monday, September 19, 2011

6:00 - 8:00 pm

Cherokee County

Cherokee Hall, Administration Center

1130 Bluffs Parkway

Canton, GA 30114

678-493-6000

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

5:00 - 7:00 pm

Cobb County

Board of Commissioners Meeting Room

100 Cherokee Street

Marietta, GA 30090

770-528-1000

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

6:00 - 8:00 pm

Fayette County

Administration Offices

140 Stonewall Avenue West

Fayetteville, GA 30214

770-305-5200

Parents Say Fulton Covered Up Student Abuse

2011-08-18T16:23:00.008-04:00

2011-08-04T13:32:00.001-04:00

Dear friends,

In early July, we posted that the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities implemented a new system of care for individuals with developmental disabilities who are experiencing a behavior related crisis, and we encouraged you to take the time to familiarize yourself with this new system and to pass this information within your networks.

We would like to hear about some of the experiences that family members have had when calling the crisis line number. If you have called the Georgia Crisis Response line in the last month, and would be willing to share your story, please email rita@aadd.org

For an overview of the Georgia Crisis Response system, click www.ddcrisis.com

Sincerely,

Rita Young

Director of Public Policy and Education

All About Developmental Disabilities

Justice and Developmental Disabilities Project

2011-08-03T15:54:00.002-04:00

AADD is excited to announce a new partnership with the Division of Developmental Disabilities to administer a Justice and Developmental Disabilities Project.

All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD) has a 54-year history as one of Atlanta's premier nonprofit organizations in service and advocacy to people with developmental disabilities. Our mission is to build communities of support, acceptance, and opportunity for children, adults, and families living with developmental disabilities. As we work to encourage and support this community, we have become aware of the need to address this gap between the perceptions and needs of professionals involved in the justice system and those of individuals affected by developmental disabilities.

A great deal of work still needs to be done with the various stakeholders across multiple systems to address the needs of people with developmental disabilities that encounter the legal system. To continue to address this issue, a targeted and collaborative training effort will be sustained and enhanced to train judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, police officers, as well as other stakeholders to be aware of people with developmental disabilities and how their lives intersect with various aspects of the legal system. This project will provide consultation and training to the justice system and would work to identify existing resources that could be used as referrals to families and agencies dealing with these issues.

To support the long and short term goals of the project, a Justice and Developmental Disabilities Coalition will be convened to open up a broader public discourse among stakeholders around recognizing and addressing the multiple intersections of people with developmental disabilities in the legal and human resource systems. This project is funded by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Division of Developmental Disabilities and administered by AADD.

Georgia Partners Graduate Passes

2011-08-03T12:03:00.003-04:00

(The Stark Family)

I recently heard from Partner Graduate, Pat Satterfield, that Cheryl Stark passed last week. Cheryl was a Georgia Partner graduate from the 1990’s. Our sympathies to the family.

- Rita

For more on the story, click here

If you would like to donate to the Stark Family, please click here.

Two Partners in Policymaking Graduates Meet with State Senator John Albers (R-56)

2011-07-22T15:26:00.003-04:00

Today, two Georgia Partners in Policymaking graduates met with their State Senator, John Albers. The trio met at a local Roswell area Starbucks to discuss issues facing the DD community. Kylie (pictured on the right) said that “Senator Albers was very nice and the meeting was very informative for both parties.” Kylie met with Senator Albers ready to discuss the issues surrounding Medicaid Waivers and employment for individuals with disabilities. Both Tricia and Kylie are recent Partners graduates and were challenged to meet with their legislator before July 30^th.

McDonald's Manager Arrested for Punching Mom of Two Autistic Boys in the Face

2011-07-22T14:59:00.002-04:00

MARIETTA, Ga. -- An arrest warrant has been issued for the manager of a Marietta McDonald's after she punched a mother of two autistic boys in the face, Marietta police said.

It happened at the McDonald's on Bells Ferry Road, police said.

The manager, Tiffany Denise Allen, told the woman that the twin boys’ service dog, Barkley, wasn't allowed inside, police said. Allen was off duty.

The law, however, states that the dog is allowed inside.

The boys’ mother, Jennifer Schwenker, said the incident took place on July 12 when she took the boys to the McDonald's to have lunch.

Channel 2’s Diana Davis got her hands on a surveillance tape showing one of the twins and Barkley enjoying the restaurant’s play area.

The family was about to leave when Allen told them there were no dogs allowed, police said.

Schwenker explained that Barkley is a service dog, allowed by federal law in all public places including restaurants. Schwenker offered to provide proof of the permit for the dog, Marietta police said.

It wasn’t enough for Allen, they said. The tape shows her following the family around the McDonald's, even down the hall to the restroom.

When Schwenker tried to leave, she lost track of one of the boys. In a panic, she threw her drink on the floor and it splashed on Allen, police said.

The tape shows Allen running after Schwenker in a rage, police said. Marietta police Detective Gwen Lewis told Davis that she has never seen anything like it.

Schwenker did not want to speak to Davis about the incident, but her husband said they are talking to a lawyer.

Allen is charged with battery assault and disorderly conduct.

JM and Jan Owens, who run the store where the incident occurred, released a statement:

“At our McDonald’s restaurant, we respect and value our customers. Their safety and well-being is always a top priority.

"We strive to comply with all applicable laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act. It is our policy to make our restaurants accessible to all customers, including those with disabilities and special needs, whether or not they need the assistance of service animals.

"We are fully cooperating with the police department in their investigation, and the individual involved is no longer employed by our company. ”

For Americans with Disabilities and their Families, Medicaid Matters

2011-07-15T09:01:00.001-04:00

Good morning dear friends,

I just received this from Mark Johnson this morning. Please make sure you continue to inform yourself on how the Medicaid environment is a moving target at the Federal level.

Sincerely,
Rita Young

Medicaid, message from Valerie Jarrett, Senior Advisor to President Obama

This week, my colleagues and I met with families from all over the country that are affiliated with the American Association of People with Disabilities, Easter Seals, and the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities.

Their stories sent the message that social safety net programs such as Medicaid are more than just numbers in a budget. I’m honored to share some of those stories with all of you.

Linda Guzman told us about her son Javi, who has both autism and a connective tissue disorder. Medicaid pays for medications, surgeries, and therapies to help him stay healthy, and for personal care services to help him stay productive. Without Medicaid, Linda would have to quit her job and go on public assistance to care for him full time.

Shannon Saunders, a 13 year-old from Columbus, Ohio, was another one of our guests at the White House. When Shannon was two, doctors diagnosed her with cerebral palsy, and thought she would never be able to walk or talk. But eleven years later, I watched as she stood from her wheelchair and proudly told me that Medicaid had helped prove her doctors wrong. Her mother was able to ensure that she received treatment in order to live up to her full potential. When she grows up, she intends to become a teacher, and live independently.

There’s no question that to tackle our nation’s debt, we will have to make some tough choices. But are there any Americans who really believe that we should ask Linda to quit her job when we need everyone contributing to our economy, or that we should ask Shannon to sacrifice her future just so that a millionaire can receive another tax cut?

Yet these are exactly the kind of sacrifices that the House Republican plan would demand from Linda, Shannon, and thousands of families like theirs. President Obama simply does not believe that this is fair.

Slashing Medicaid for Americans with disabilities and their families is also bad economics. If Linda is forced to leave the workforce, and Shannon doesn’t get the health care she needs in order to join the workforce when she grows up, they would both ultimately be receiving government benefits, rather than contributing to society. This would place a large cost on taxpayers over the long run.

In Washington, it’s easy to frame every debate in terms of political winners and losers. But stories such as Linda’s and Shannon’s are powerful reminders of what really is at stake.

As President Obama works toward a deal that allows our country to live within its means, he’ll remember the Americans who depend on programs such as Medicaid. We hope that courageous families like the ones I met this week will inspire all our elected officials to put partisanship aside, and do what is best for our country.
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By Valerie Jarrett, July 14, 2011, 12:40 PM EDT

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/07/14/americans-disabilities-and-their-families-medicaid-matters

Fulton County Board of Education Budget Cuts

2011-07-14T09:35:00.000-04:00

We recently heard from a parent in Fulton County about an alarming issue regarding the county’s school budget cuts and how they will affect the education of students with disabilities. On May 10, 2011, an article in The Atlanta Journal- Constitution reported that “Fulton County schools will abolish 202 special education paraprofessional jobs and 40 teaching positions.”

This parent is considering filing a state complaint on behalf of her child and is looking for the names of other families that find this unacceptable and want to get involved in finding the solution. If your family has been notified that your student will no longer have the supports of a paraprofessional or other teaching staff, or if you simply find this an unacceptable way to balance a county’s budget, please email Donnie Kanter Winokur at thechancerchronicles@gmail.com

Protect the Services You or a Loved One Rely On to Survive! Take Action Now!

2011-07-12T13:57:00.000-04:00

Right now, Congress is developing strategies to cut spending and bring down the federal deficit. As advocates for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who may bear the brunt of many of the proposed funding cuts and policy changes, our voices must be heard in these debates.

If we don’t speak up now, cuts to Medicaid and other programs critical to people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) may take the brunt of the cuts. Members of Congress are very reluctant to cut Medicare, as the elderly community is a very reliable voting constituency and they are very vocal advocates. Historically, Social Security is considered the “third rail” in politics, and as such, not to be touched. That leaves Medicaid on the table as a prime target for cuts.

What Will Happen to People with Disabilities if Medicaid is Drastically Cut?

Fewer people will get care and people will get less care. For example, they could be denied:

‐ prescription drugs, medical treatments, and therapies they need to be healthy

‐ wheelchairs and prosthetic devices they need to be mobile

‐ home and community based services to live in the community instead of institutions

These losses could result in increased:

‐ Illness, injury, and death

‐ Increased stress of families unable to meet family member’s needs

‐Increased institutionalization or out‐of‐home services

‐ Uncompensated care for costly emergency rooms

‐ Shifted demands on other systems of care (e.g., Veterans Administration)

Call your Two Senators and Representative Wednesday July 13^th.

Here is a phone script that you may use.

“Hi my name is ___________, and I’m from _______________. I want my Senator/Representative to know that the budget cannot be balanced on the backs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Deep cuts in Medicaid cannot be tolerated.”

Then share your story! There is nothing more powerful than sharing your personal experience.

To find contact information for Georgia Senators and your Representative

Senators, click on your state at

http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cf

To identify your Congressman/woman, go to http://www.house.gov/ and enter your zip code. Some districts require a 9 digit zip code, which you can find at http://zip4.usps.com/zip4/welcome.jsp

Please email info@thearcofgeorgia.org with results from call.

Deirdre K. O'Brien

Executive Director

1-678-733-8969

www.thearcofgeorgia.org

GA Partners Grad Appointed to State Rehabilitation Council

2011-07-08T13:59:00.000-04:00

Deal appoints 33 to boards

Friday, July 1, 2011

Dorothea D. Cadet, State Rehabilitation Council
Cadet is employed by Chick-fil-A Inc. She serves on the Public Policy Committee of All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD) and is the president of the South Fulton Coalition for Understanding Inc. Cadet earned a bachelor’s degree from Georgia State University and a master’s degree from Luther Rice University. She has one adult son and lives in Union City.

Teen With Aspergers Shot, and Killed by FL Police

2011-07-08T10:42:00.001-04:00

18-year-old Nicholas Pesare was shot and killed by Largo, FL, police on Thursday after responding to a call about a domestic disturbance from his mother, Anne Polce. According to WTSP.com, Polce said she had called the police “hoping they would take him to a mental evaluation center for medication” but, while she was outside, two officers entered her apartment and three gunshots heard:

Largo Police are investigating the incident, but say their officers had no choice but to shoot the teen after they were attacked by Pesare, who they say was under the influence of drugs and was threatening suicide. His mother confirms she found her son snorting Xanax earlier in the day.

“They were confronted with a deadly force situation, one of the officers fired their service weapon and, as a result, we have a deceased adult male,” said Lt. Mike Loux of the Largo Police Department.

But Polce says she can’t understand why the officers found it necessary to kill her son, who she describes as 5’3″ tall, 118 pounds and armed with only a folding pocket knife. She says the officers were three times the size of her son. She’s also angry she was not allowed to enter the apartment herself to bring her son out peacefully.

“I could have diffused the whole situation because he would have never come after me,” said Anne Polce shortly after being questioned by investigators.

Noting that her son suffered from depression, Polce said they had been arguing about returning to Rhode Island, where they had moved from some years ago.

Pesare’s death sadly highlights the need for greater instruction and understanding about autism among first responders including police and EMTs. As a statement from the UK’s National Autistic Society (NAS) emphasizes,

The vast majority of individuals with autism are law abiding and respect the rules of society. On occasions when a person with autism comes to the attention of the police and other services it is normally a result of their social and communication difficulties being misunderstood and because they are not given appropriate support.

Here in New Jersey where we live, all police must undergo training about autism and how to approach individuals on the spectrum, who may not — I know my son very likely would not — respond to instructions and display unusual behaviors that may seem threatening. There have been a number reports of police shooting and restraining autistic adults (mostly autistic men) that have tragically been fatal, as in the case of Pesare.

We have unfortunately had to deal with our local police and EMT’s a few times when our son was extremely upset in our car or in a public place. Needless to say, these were difficult experiences, but the police were very respectful of us and our son, asking us what they would like us to do and what our assessment of the situation was. The resources for training first responders are out there ; Dennis Debbault, a parent of an autistic son, offers training for law enforcement and emergency officers and others. Alittle instruction can go a long way, and could have made a real difference for Nicholas Pesare and his mother.

MARTA Pilot Study for people with Developmental Disabilities

2011-07-07T13:42:00.003-04:00

MARTA is soliciting participants from persons with disabilities to participate in a pilot study. Individuals who use different assistive technology devices or Smartphone applications in improving and educating their travels are in demand!

General information:

MARTA is exploring the use of technology to estimate bus arrivals at stops using real-time data. The service would allow riders to determine, and track, in real-time where a specific bus is, on its route, and when it will be arriving at a predetermined bus stop using the web, short message service (SMS) text, or voice. Customers can then obtain continually updated arrival estimates in real time, using computers, wireless devices such as cell phones, and phone calls using either touchtone or voice service. Also, customers could be alerted when a bus is within a predetermined arrival window for a designated bus stop.

Potential Benefits:

Reduce customer wait-time
Increase perceived system on-time performance (OTP),
Increase customer satisfaction
Or/and attract new ridership

MARTA is soliciting your participation in assessing the utility and, functionality of this service and will benefit from the feedback and experience of all riders, including individuals with disabilities who use different assistive technology devices or Smartphone applications, including Mobile Speak, Screen Readers, BrailleNote, Talks, Electronic Hand-Held Magnifiers, Trekker Breeze Talking, etc…

To this end, we are requesting that each EDAAC Member and Resource Member solicit the participation of 4 to 5 Fixed Route or MARTA Mobility rider who use assistive technologies in improving and educating their travels.

Basic Information:

The pilot program will launch: To Be Announced

Please provide Luz Semeah, ADA Coordinator, with your list of participants by July 25^th. The list is attached. If you have any questions and concerns, please call Luz at the below contact information.

Individuals will obtain training prior to going into the field and riding the buses. You will receive remuneration for participating (a Breeze card and a cash reward).

Mentally disabled man beaten for saying, “Hey, I like your shirt”

2011-07-06T13:54:00.000-04:00

Jacksonville, FL —

A Publix employee was attacked after complimenting a man with a Georgia Bulldogs T-shirt.

26-year-old James Wall said, “Hey, I like your shirt,” and that’s all it took for Ryan Keys to beat Wall outside of a Northside Publix.

The attack happened Friday at the Publix on Duval Station Road, but the details were not made public until recently.

Our news partner Channel 4 says Wall, the mentally disabled man was punched in the face so hard it knocked his two front teeth out; the teeth were found 10-12 feet from where he was laying.

Police described Keys as 6’4, 275 lbs.

Keys fled the scene in his brother’s car. Police later arrested the attacker at their home and was charged with aggravated battery and resisting arrest.

2011-07-05T09:51:00.003-04:00

Dear friends,

As of July 1, 2011, the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities has implemented a new system of care for individuals with developmental disabilities who are experiencing a behavior related crisis. We encourage you to take the time to familiarize yourself with this new system and to pass this information within your networks. The link below will outline what caregivers should do in a crisis situation, the role of the mobile crisis team, and the support services that will be available for individuals in crisis.

For an overview of the Georgia Crisis Response system, click www.ddcrisis.com

Sincerely,

Rita Young

Director of Public Policy and Education

All About Developmental Disabilities

2011-06-23T11:54:00.000-04:00

Independent Living Summer Series

July 7th - September 22nd Thursdays from 6-8 PM Admission is Free

(7/7) Week 1 - Tapping into Your Creativity
(7/14) Week 2 - Tools for Finding Employment
(7/21) Week 3 - Stress Management and Laughing Yoga
(7/28) Week 4 - Advocacy and Transportation
(8/4) Week 5 - Computers and Social Media

(8/11) Week 6 - Using Community Resources and Personal Finances Wisely

This program is brought to you by disABILITY LINK
For more information contact Kenya Phillips, IL Class Coordinator, at 404-687-8890 X 113 or e-mail kphillips@disABILITYLINK.org
This is a 12 week series, space is limited please RSVP.

Each class will cover a different Independent Living topic.
Weeks 7-12 to be announced later

Lois Curtis Meets President Barack Obama

2011-06-22T18:04:00.001-04:00

(Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

The memories of living in institutional settings since the age of 13 will always be with Lois Curtis even though her life today is beyond what she ever could have imagined when she made the first of many brave phone calls to my office at the Atlanta Legal Aid Society saying, “I want to get out!” The journey (and struggle) from that day includes an historic Supreme Court decision, a home of her own and a successful career as an artist. And now, a meeting with President Barack Obama in the Oval Office as we observe the 12th anniversary of the Olmsteaddecision.

The Olmstead story began long before the Supreme Court decision. Lois and another plaintiff, Elaine Wilson (who passed away in 2004), were in a state psychiatric hospital in Georgia. They filed suit in 1995 seeking disability services in the community. On the fateful day that brought us to Washington D.C., those of us who had worked on the case for five years were perhaps more amazed than Lois that we were climbing the steps of the United States Supreme Court, moving through hundreds of persons with signs, many in wheelchairs, who had spent most of the previous night in a disability civil rights vigil. The lawyers were focused on the frightening possibility that the Court would reverse the successful decisions of the lower courts and the exciting possibility that it wouldn't. Lois, however, tends to take things in stride and understands the joy of the moment. Since she was not in a state hospital but enjoying a trip to D.C. with her friends and supporters, her focus was on that day of freedom and adventure. In fact, she insisted on a tour of the White House that day, asking if there was a chance she might see the President. Lois and Elaine, as well as the intense commitment of the disability community around the country, were truly our inspiration. And, as we all now know, the U.S. Supreme Court eventually held that the unjustified institutional isolation of people with disabilities is a form of unlawful discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act, thus taking a giant step forward for the millions of people with disabilities across the country.

Lois’ story did not end after that landmark Supreme Court decision. In fact, that decision launched a new journey. After living in staffed residential homes since her release from the institution, Lois now rents a beautiful home in the Stone Mountain area of Georgia. She chose a fellow artist and friend to be her roommate. In 2010 a non-profitmicroboard was created to help foster Lois' continuing independence. A microboard is a group of friends set up to assist with the services and supports for one individual. In her case, Lois' microboard was critical to helping her gain access to a Medicaid waiver program for self-directed services.

Lois’ career as an artist has taken off. Initial support from a U.S. Department of Labor customized employment grant in 2004 drew advocates to her side that resulted in several one-woman exhibits and recognition within the arts community for her uninhibited artistic expression. One painting was recently auctioned for $1,400! But Lois doesn’t care about that. When I asked her what her artwork means to her, she responded, “My art been around a long time. I came along when my art came along. Drawing pretty pictures is a way to meet God in the world like it is.”

Lois is once again taking the lead and helping those who choose to integrate into the community. She wants to show parents and family members that with the right supports and services, life in the community is not only possible but can also be very rewarding. The Obama Administration is helping to make this possible by strongly supporting the full implementation of the Olmstead decision, helping ensure the full integration of people with disabilities into the work, recreational, and social life of our society.

On June 20, 2011, 12 years after her visit to the Supreme Court, Lois has not only seen the President but presented him with a gift of one of her original paintings in the Oval Office, in the style of a visiting dignitary. The "Girl in Orange Dress" is one in a series of three pastel self portraits Lois created since she has no photographs to mark her childhood.

Sue Jamieson is an attorney with the Atlanta Legal Aid Society Mental Health and Disability Rights Unit. She was the lead attorney in Olmstead v. L.C.

Mentally disabled? Ga. Supreme court says 'prove it'

2011-06-15T14:48:00.001-04:00

Alphonso Stripling (Courtesy of the GA Dept. of Corrections)

Although Georgia was the first state to prohibit the execution of mentally disabled people in capital cases, the state's high court upheld what's been described as a "stringent" law concerning how retardation is determined.

According to the Georgia Supreme Court, defendants who claim to be mentally disabled have the burden of proving it "beyond a reasonable doubt," making ours the only state with a reasonable-doubt standard. In every other state that allows capital punishment, a mental handicap can be proven by a “preponderance of the evidence.”

One Justice worried that the law allows for the possibility that mentally disabled people could, in fact, be put to death in Georgia. In his dissent, Judge Robert Benham wrote:

“Setting a standard so high as to require proof beyond a reasonable doubt greatly increases the chance that any mentally retarded person will be executed — an outcome absolutely prohibited by the Eighth Amendment."

Are we so focused on maximizing the absolute penalty of death that we would risk wrongfully executing someone with a clinically identified mental disability? To do so is an impermissible violation of our Constitution and a senseless assault against morality and human decency. Accordingly, I would join the majority of jurisdictions imposing the death penalty which require a defendant alleging a mental disability to prove his deficiency by a preponderance of the evidence.”

The ruling was in reaction to the trial of Alphonso Stripling, who was convicted of and sentenced to death for shooting two men in a Kentucky Fried Chicken in 1988. The Supreme Court granted Stripling a new trial, not to determine his guilt or innocence, but strictly to determine whether or not he is mentally disabled. If Stripling can prove his handicap, he'll face life imprisonment rather than lethal injection.

Stuart, Gwynedd. "Mentally disabled? Ga. Supreme court says 'prove it'" Creative Loafing. 6/13/11. Posted 6/15/11

Long Road Home Events June 2011

2011-06-14T15:01:00.000-04:00

If you live in Georgia, please come out and show your support for the local efforts to gain access to community living for people with disabilities still living in institutions...

Long Road Home
150 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Suite 430 Decatur, GA 30030
Contact: Cheri Mitchell, Chair -678-755-6015 E-mail: cherimitchellg@gmail.com
Contact: Jenny Puestow –404-885-1234 E-mail: jpuestow@thegao.org

LONG ROAD HOME 2011 EVENTS
Events Scheduled to Celebrate the Landmark Supreme Court Olmstead Decision and to Bring Attention to People with Disabilities Still Confined in Institutions

Schedule of Events
•    Wednesday, June 15 –Decatur, GA
Featuring music, art, food, informational discussion, and freedom stories.
Location and time: Holy Trinity Church, 515 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur, GA 30030; 11 am to 2 pm
Contact: Josh Cusick–jbcusick@gmail.comor Jenny Puestow –404-885-1234

•    Thursday, June 16 –Dalton, GA
Featuring refreshments until 4:30 and speakers Tally Wells, Andy Wade, and Tammy Ruggles
Location and time: Dalton City Hall, 300 W. Waugh St., Dalton, GA 30720; 4 pm to 6 pm
Contact: Faith Reed –423-902-5896 or 706-278-8143

•    Saturday, June 18 –Gainesville, GA
Featuring a free hotdog lunch, music from the Lefty Williams Band, and other talents.
Location and time: Roosevelt Square in downtown Gainesville; 11 am to 2:30 pm
Contact: The Disability Resource Center –770-534-6656

•    Monday, June 20 –Savannah, GA
Featuring guest speaker Willie Bivins.
Location and time: Living Independence for Everyone (LIFE), Inc.,12020 Abercorn St., Savannah, GA 31419; 11 am to noon
Contact: Mark Swift –mswift@lifecil.comor 912-920-2414

•    Tuesday, June 21 –North Augusta, SC
Featuring a showing of the First Long Road Home video, inducted into the Civil Rights Hall of Fame in 2005.
Location and time: Walton Options, 325 Georgia Ave., N. Augusta, SC 29841;Time: To be announced
Contact: Carla Cook –803-279-9611

•    Wednesday, June 22 –
•    Main Celebration at the Georgia Capitol Building in Atlanta
Featuring speakers, and an art display featuring the work of artists with disabilities.
Location and time: Georgia State Capitol, South Wing rotunda, downtown Atlanta
Contact: Jenny Puestow –404-88-1234 or jpuestow@thegao.org

•    Wednesday, June 22 –Bainbridge, GA
This event will feature refreshments.
Location and time: Decatur County Senior Center, 402 W. Water St., Bainbridge, GA 39817; 2 pm to 4 pm
Contact: BAIN, Inc., Center for Independent Living –229-246-0150 or bain@surfsouth.com. RSVP requi

•    Wednesday, June 22 –Fitzgerald, GA
Featuring a march and rally.
Location and time: The Jessamine Place, 402 S. Main St., Fitzgerald, GA 31750; 9 am to noon
Contact: Constance Foster –229-426-5298

•    Wednesday, June 22 –Rome, GA
This event will feature a Lunch-and-Learn.
Location and time: Sara Hightower Regional Library, Oostanaula and Etowah Rooms, 205 RiverSidePkwy., NE, Rome, GA 30161; 9 am to 1 pm
Contact: Andy Wade –706-314-0008 or 866-888-7845

For more Info go to www.peoplefirstga.org

Long Road Home thanks the following organizations for making these events possible:
Atlanta Legal Aid’s Disability Rights and Mental Health Unit
BAIN, Inc.
Center for Leadership on Disability
Cross Plains Community Partner
disABILITYLINK Northwest
Disability Resource Center
Georgia Advocacy Office
Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities
Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network
Friends of L’Arche Atlanta
Holy Trinity Church
Jessamine Place
Living Independence for Everyone (LIFE), Inc.
People First of Atlanta
People First of Fitzgerald
People First of Georgia
People First Northeast GA Chapter
People First Northwest GA Chapter
People First of Thomasville
Walton Options

Rep. Tom Rice stops by Conversations that Matter: Gwinnett

2011-06-14T13:07:00.003-04:00

Disability Snapshot Survey

2011-06-08T12:26:00.006-04:00

Dear Participant,

Your opinions matter! A team of researchers from the University of Michigan are gathering
information about people with a variety of impairments and conditions. We have developed
a snapshot survey and look forward to your participation. Your input is very important to us.

Please Note: This survey is for People with Disabilities themselves, not caretakers
of or service-providers for those with disabilities.

The survey should take no more than 5-10 MINUTES to complete. If you agree to be part of
the survey, you will be asked to provide basic information about yourself and your
condition.Your responses are very important to the success of this initiative, which we
hope will benefit people with disabilities in many communities.

Your answers will be completely CONFIDENTIAL, and you will in no way be identified with
them. There are occasional and infrequent reasons why people other than the researchers
may need to see information you provide as part of the study. This includes organizations
responsible for making sure the research is done safely and properly, including the University
of Michigan or government offices. However, only combined data in the form of averages will
be used in analyses, interpretation, reports, publications, or presentations. You will NEVER
be identified in any report. The data you provide will be stored on password-protected
computers that can only be accessed by members of the research team. The researchers
will retain an electronic database of survey responses indefinitely for use in future research
studies conducted by members of our lab. However, this database will not contain
information that could identify you.

There are few if any foreseeable risks associated with this survey, and no direct benefit to
you, although we hope our research will benefit people with disabilities across the United
States. Your participation is completely voluntary, and you may skip any question
at any time. Also, you may withdraw from the study by not completing it without any
consequences. If you have questions about your rights as a research participant,
or wish to obtain information, ask questions or discuss any concerns about this study with
someone other than theresearcher(s), please contact the University of Michigan Health
Sciences and Behavioral Sciences Institutional Review Board, 540 E Liberty St., Ste 202,
Ann Arbor, MI 48104-2210, (734) 936-0933 [or toll free, (866) 936-0933],
irbhsbs@umich.edu. By answering the survey questions, you indicate your voluntary
agreement to participate in this research and have your answers included (anonymously) in
the results.

If you have any questions about this survey research, please contact our research
team at Rottenstein.Lab@umich.edu

By taking a few minutes to share your experiences as a person with a disability, you will be
helping us a great deal!

Many Thanks,

Adena Rottenstein, M.S.

Principal Investigator

University of Michigan

adena@umich.edu

Lorraine Gutierrez, Ph.D.

Faculty Advisor

University of Michigan

lorraing@umich.edu

Phone: (734) 936-9124

Study ID: HUM00044918

IRB: Health Sciences and Behavioral Sciences

Date Approved: 3/15/2011

Take the survey here

Law Students Help Parents Exercise Their Educational Rights

2011-06-07T10:20:00.000-04:00

Photo by: ANDREW DAVIS TUCKER

By sixth grade, Liam Ellis was doing well enough academically to transition from special education into a mainstream classroom. But after one classroom incident related to his Asperger’s syndrome, school officials wanted to send him back to special ed.

“His grades were up and then he had an issue that caused a setback and instead of trying to help him, he basically was put in in-school suspension for a month,” Liam’s mom Pam Ellis says.

Ellis turned to the UGA School of Law for help. Working with law students in the school’s special education racticum, she was able to navigate the public school system policies to keep her son in the regular classroom and receive the services he needs to be a success there.

Directed by Torin Togut, an attorney with the Georgia Legal Service Program, who launched the program at UGA in 2006, the special education practicum provides legal assistance and advocacy to lower-income families with special needs children to ensure their children receive the free, appropriate public education that they are promised under federal law.

While the program provides a valuable service to parents, it also gives students a firsthand look at one area of the law they may be working in once they graduate. The seminar portion of the practicum allows students to discuss their clients’ experiences with Togut and each other.

“I was interested in getting practical experience… I wanted to see how it is in reality,” says Emily Boness (JD ’10), who participated in the practicum.

Law student Sonya Elkins meets with Pam Ellis and her son Liam, 11, at the Georgia Legal Services program office as part of the UGA School of Law’s special education practicum. Elkins and other law students helped Ellis navigate public school system policies so that Liam can receive the services he needs.

The practicum lasts a semester and complements work the students perform in the classroom. The students are assigned in pairs to parents seeking help for their children. They review case files, meet with clients and research laws to build a case to take to school board officials. They also observe Togut in the courtroom and at school meetings.

“Maybe most importantly what they learn is not only skills, but they see their supervisors, who are acting as lawyers. They see people doing what they came here to do,” law school Associate Dean Paul M. Kurtz says.

The special education practicum is one of 12 clinics now offered through the law school to provide students real world experience while earning their degrees.

Boness recalls a father who stopped to thank her after a frustrating, three-hour school meeting.

“He knew it was important to get his son through school, and he appreciated us being there,” she says. “And I thought, this is what it’s all about… this makes it worth it.”

To learn more about the School of Law clinics, go to http://www.law.uga.edu/clinical-programs.

TIA - Atlanta Regional Roundtable

2011-06-07T09:50:00.000-04:00

Beginning the week of June 13, the Atlanta Regional Transportation Roundtable will host 10 telephone town hall meetings, one in each county. The meetings will give local officials from each county who serve on the Roundtable a chance to hear from you about your transportation concerns and priorities. More than a million people will receive calls and be invited to participate in the telephone town halls. However, anyone can join a call by using the 800 number and PIN.

Roundtable members will work throughout the summer to select the projects that voters will be asked to approve in July 2012. This telephone town hall is one of many ways the Roundtable will gather public input. If you have any questions, please call Kathryn Lawler at 404.463.3296.

The current schedule for the Roundtable conversations is:
(the Dial in Number is 888-886-6603)

Date	Jurisdiction	Pin
June 13th 6pm	Henry County	16717
June 13th 7:15 pm	Douglas County	16718
June 14th 6pm	Cherokee County	16719
June 14th 7:15 pm	Cobb County	16720
June 15th 7:15 pm	DeKalb County	16722
June 20th 6pm	Fayette County	16723
June 20th 7:15pm	Gwinnett County	16724
June 21st 6pm	Rockdale County	16725
June 22nd 6pm	Fulton County	16727
June 22nd 7:15pm	Clayton County	16728

For more information including a schedule of all future meetings, please go to the Roundtable website at: www.atlantaregionalroundtable.com

Atlanta Regional Commission
40 Courtland St. NE
Atlanta Georgia 30303

Conversations that Matter: Gwinnett

2011-06-06T08:27:00.004-04:00

We have extended the RSVP till Wed. June 8th.

Gwinnett Conversations that Matter

We would like to invite you to attend Conversations that Matter: Community Support. Join us for conversations, connections and collaboration on community supports. Parents and family members of individuals with disabilities, self advocates, and professionals working in the disability supports and services, school personnel, and other community leaders will be attending.

When:     June 13, 2011
                7:00pm-7:30pm Refreshments
                and Reception
                7:30pm-9:00pm Program

Where:   Busbee Center at Gwinnett Technical College
                5150 Sugarloaf Parkway
                Lawrenceville, GA 30043-5702


Presenting Sponsor:
Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities
Division of Developmental Disabilities

Lead Organizer:
All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD)

Please RSVP
Christine Kramlich
tviandb@gmail.com

Heidi Fernandez
678-699-3531

2011-06-03T12:12:00.005-04:00

Conversations that Matter: Gwinnett

Join us for conversations, connections and collaboration on community supports. Parents and family members of individuals with disabilities, self-advocates, and professionals working in the disability supports and services, school personnel, and other community leaders will be attending.

When: June 13, 2011
7:00pm-7:30pm Refreshments
and Reception
7:30pm-9:00pm Program

Where: Busbee Center at Gwinnett Technical College
5150 Sugarloaf Parkway
Lawrenceville, GA 30043

Presenting Sponsor:
Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities
Division of Developmental Disabilities

Lead Organizer:
All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD)

Please RSVP by June 6 to:
Christine Kramlich
tviandb@gmail.com

BHDD Hosts Waiver Recipient and Family Forum

2011-05-27T10:35:00.000-04:00

The Division of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Division of Developmental Disabilities is hosting a Waiver Recipient & Family Forum

As part of the Division's commitment to providing opportunities for waiver recipients and family members participation, we will be hosting 6 forums in June to discuss the rate study and next steps. We are inviting you to attend one of the forums. We have arranged for meetings in each region and would appreciate your participation and input. The dates and times are listed below.

June 7, 2011 - 6 PM
Coastal Georgia Center
Room 111
305 Fahm Street, Savannah, GA 31401
Directions: http://cgc.georgiasouthern.edu/directions.html

June 8, 2011 - 5:30 PM
South West GA Technical College
Building A, Room 132
15689 US Hwy 19N
Thomasville, GA 31792

June 9, 2011 5:30 PM
Holiday Inn - Columbus North (Dogwood Room)
2800 Manchester Expressway
Columbus, GA 31904
Directions: http://www.holidayinn.com/hotels/us/en/columbus/csgap/hoteldetail#Directions

June 14, 2011 - 6:00 PM
Augusta Technical College
Building 600, Room 633 (Auditorium)
3200 Augusta Tech Drive
Augusta, Georgia 30906
Directions: http://www.augustatech.edu/campus_map_studentlife.html

June 15, 2011 - 5:30 PM
Clarence Brown Conference Center
Stilesboro 3 Room
5450 State Route 20
Cartersville, GA 30121

June 16, 2011 6:30 PM

Region 3 Office - Conference Room

100 Crescent Centre Parkway, Suite 900

Tucker, GA 30084
Directions: http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Tucker&state=GA&address

Guy Caruso on Labeling

2011-05-23T15:43:00.001-04:00