An interesting article in theHuffington Postwritten by Damon Beres about how PlayStation is making gaming more accessible for people with disabilities. It explains some of the accessibility features it's adding.

PlayStation May Soon Transform Gaming For People With Disabilities

By Damon Beres

The PlayStation 4 may be poised to make gaming more accessible for people with disabilities.

An upcomingfirmware updatecouldadd new featurescatering to people with visual, auditory or other impairments. Twitter user Ahsan Rasheed (@IsAParrot) posted photos of a friend's beta version of the 2.50 firmware patch, including one that shows alist of new PS4 settingslike text-to-speech, color inversion, text enlargement, closed captions and button reassignment, among others.

Here's the photo of the accessibility feature list:

A spokesperson for Sony Computer Entertainment America told The Huffington Post that the next PS4 update "will be released soon," but would not confirm whether these accessibility features will be included.

Rasheed, who told HuffPost he's a former medical student active on game industry forums likeNeoGAF, has beenwrongabout a gaming rumors before, which he admitted to. But he's also beenright.

An additional source who was familiar with the update but unauthorized to reveal details told HuffPost that the added features are the real deal.

Accessibility features in PS4 would be huge for the gaming community according to Steven Spohn, chief operations officer atTheAbleGamers Foundation, a nonprofit that works to eliminate barriers and help individuals with disabilities to enjoy gaming.

"We're talking millions of people who are suddenly going to have an easier time playing games," said Spohn.

Button assignments in particular, he said, would be a major addition to PS4. This feature would allow individuals to customize which controller buttons do what before jumping into a game. People with muscular diseases or disorders who have trouble pressing the "trigger" button, for example, could map it instead to the more accessible "triangle" button on the front of the controller, according to Spohn.

A big part of AbleGamers' work, Spohn said, is creating custom controllers or configurations for gamers who can't use the default device that comes with a system. Spohn tends to recommend the Xbox One for gamers with disabilities because it allows customized third-party controllers. These controllers, however, can cost hundreds of dollars.

What's more, the Xbox One doesn't offer built-in accessibility options like the ones that might be coming to PS4.

"This is a game-changer," Spohn said of the potential PS4 update. "Unless Xbox catches up now and does the same thing, we're going to have to change what we recommend to people."

Representatives for Xbox did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Of course, this potential PS4 update isn't a cure-all. Certain games present challenges regardless of how the controls are set up -- multiple buttons might need to be pressed in a specific way while moving a joystick, for example -- and players who can't move their fingers far enough to reach each button would still benefit from the ability to use a custom third-party controller, whichSony does not allowon the PlayStation 4.

Still, it's a start.

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/03/11/playstation-4-accessibility-update_n_6842544.html

Washington, DC The National Council on Disability (NCD), an independent federal agency, in a cooperative agreement with the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services (NASDDDS), released Home and Community-Based Services: Creating Systems for Success at Home, at Work and in the Community online Tuesday, February 24, 2015.

The new report offers a number of recommendations for federal and state entities from a thorough review of the legal and regulatory home and community-based services framework outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act and the new Home & Community-Based Services (HCBS) regulations. The bearing of setting size and configuration on the quality of supports and services received by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and individuals with mental health disabilities in home and community-based arrangements is the focus of the findings.

The legal mandate shifting service delivery for people with disabilities away from institutions to home and community settings is unequivocal, said Joan Durocher, NCDs Director of Policy. Yet, transitioning from institutional to more individualized, person-centered settings integrating people with disabilities into the community continues to challenge policymakers, providers, and stakeholders alike. Ensuring that the size of, and type of, supports and services for people with disabilities are aligned with best practices is essential. Home and Community-Based Services: Creating Systems for Success at Home, at Work and in the Community details factors that can make a crucial difference between meaningful integration or segregation in the delivery of HCBS.

Key Findings:

--States have been offered federal financial incentives to shift away from institutional services and towards HCBS; --Many states continue to deliver services through HCBS funding authorities that are not meaningfully integrated into their communities and do not meet the new federal standards; --HCBS systems should provide clear incentives to providers to deliver residential, day and employment services within small or individual settings scattered throughout the community; --Under the new rule, states will need to shift funding away from settings currently funded as HCBS that are institutional in nature; and --Stakeholders, including state legislators and policy makers current need information about setting type and size for informed decisions and guidance impacting people with disabilities.

To read the full report, visit NCD online at:http://www.ncd.gov/publications/2015/02242015

Information above taken from the Great Lakes ADA Center listserv

The Department of Justice has announced that individuals wishing to file ADA complaints with the Department will be able to fill out the form and submit it completely electronically. Filers will also immediately receive a "reference number" that can be used whenever contacting the Department about that complaint. The new electronic form is available at:http://www.ada.gov/complaint/

EffectiveMarch 15, 2015DOJ will no longer accept email complaints. However, complaints will still be accepted by U.S. mail. Contact the Department's ADA Information Line at1-800-514-0301(V);1-800-514-0383(TTY) to receive a paper complaint form by mail.

Above information taken from the Great Lakes ADA Center listserv.

An interesting article inDisability Scoopwritten by Shaun Heasley about how over two dozen states--including Wisconsin--will receive money to help people with disabilities access community-based housing and support support services. It's made available through HUD.

Thousands With Disabilities To Get Rental Assistance

By Shaun Heasley

Millions of dollars are heading to over two dozen states to help people with disabilities access community-based housing and support services.

Federal officials said this week that housing agencies in 25 states will each get a share of $150 million to provide rental assistance to those with disabilities.

The funding is expected to support nearly 4,600 households, including many people transitioning out of institutional settings, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said.

The money is being made available through HUDs Section 811 Project Rental Assistance Program, which provides housing assistance so people with disabilities can live independently in the community.

To qualify, state housing agencies must partner with local Medicaid and health and human services agencies to identify participants and ensure that long-term services and supports are in place so that they can live as independently as possible.

Those with disabilities who earn less than 30 percent of their areas median income are eligible to take part.

Advocates with the Technical Assistance Collaborative, a nonprofit focused on promoting housing and community support services for those with disabilities, said 35 states applied for the housing funds, suggesting that there is great demand.

States receiving rental assistance through the program include Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia.

Source: http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2015/03/04/thousands-rental-assistance/20107/

33796598fb75979817e08e9b80fd281f.pdf

A 1 page Matrix comparing important IRIS services , and information on Family Care Services.

Mark G

An inspiring story inUW Oshkosh Todaywritten by Kaitlyn Knox about a Wisconsin native and an UW Oshkosh alum who has made it big in Nashville. He has been hired by Discover WisconsinTV to write, compose, and perform a new theme song for the show. Tony doesn't let his disability stop him from living his dream!

Alumnus creates theme song for Discover Wisconsin

By Kaitlyn Knox

A Wisconsin native and University of Wisconsin Oshkosh alumnus is hitting it big in the music industry as he performs music for live audiences and local television.

Discover WisconsinTV hired Tony Memmel 08, of Nashville, Tenn., to write, compose and perform a new theme song for the show, which aired on Feb. 21 and 22 for the first time.

The new theme song, called The Good Land, was part of the 400th episode celebration withDiscover Wisconsin.

Memmel, a native of Milwaukee, is an award-winning singer-songwriter, speaker and composer. He started his music career as a child, not letting his disability take away his dream of learning to play guitar. Memmel was born without his left forearm, but has constructed a self-made cast that can hold a guitar pick.

The Good Landis an upbeat song that portrays whatDiscover WisconsinTV is about; traveling to towns across Wisconsin to show what they have to offer. Memmel said he found inspiration from growing up in Wisconsin.

When writingThe Good Land, I focused on what I thought a modern anthem about the state might sound like and what it should say, he said.

The 400th episode featured St. Germain, Sayner and Star Lake, all small, northern towns in Wisconsin.

Memmel uses folk, Americana, pop and other genres when hes writing music. He also is known to sing with a subtle, yet powerful voice, according to his website.

At UW Oshkosh, Memmel was active in music. He was part of the chamber choir, sang in opera productions, became president of the chamber choir, majored in music business and even met his wife in the choir.

Music was my life at UWO, and remains that way to this day, he said.

Previously, Memmel has received recognition as the Wisconsin Area Music Industry singer-songwriter of the year and has been a finalist with his wife, Lesleigh, on VH1/Republic RecordsMake a Band Famous.

Along with singing and writing songs, Memmel works with schools and organizations to create clinical programs that are customized to focus on overcoming adversity, and creating vocational craftsmanship, artistic integrity and an ambitious spirit.

His hit,Lucky Fin Song, focuses on overcoming the adversity children with disabilities face. Memmel works as the Lucky Fin Project ambassador.

The lyrics are about my mission to emphasize ability over disability, and to show children, as well as adults, that all things are possible, if you set your mind to them and dont give up, Memmel said.

He also teaches music master-classes to grade schools, high schools and colleges.

As a musician, Memmel has organized 11 national tours and performed in 44 states. He has performed at the Weill Center for the Performing Arts in Sheboygan, and has performed in the Superdome in New Orleans, both in front of large audiences.

Memmel is considered a bright and upcoming artist, sponsored by Gorilla Glue Co., Heid Music, Kyser Musical Products and Kopf Percussion. He partners with the Lucky Fin Project, MS run in the U.S. and a fundraiser called Owens Song."

Source:http://www.uwosh.edu/today/38184/alumnus-creates-theme-song-for-discover-wisconsin/

An interesting article inDisability Scoopby Michelle Diament about how the Federal Communications Commission has put together a disability advisory committee to provide expertise and recommendations on communications and video programming issues.

FCC To Put New Focus On Disabilities

By Michelle Diament

The federal agency tasked with regulating telephones, television and other communications technology is looking for advice on how to better serve people with disabilities.

The Federal Communications Commission is convening a disability advisory committee for the first time.

The 40-member panel, which will hold its first meeting in March, will advise and provide recommendations to regulators on topics ranging from the accessibility of 911 services to closed captioning and telecommunications relay services.

Members include executives from major players like Yahoo, Verizon, AT&T and Comcast in addition to advocates from disability organizations, consumers and government officials.

This new committee will provide sorely needed expertise and recommendations from consumer and industry stakeholders on communications and video programming issues, FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler said. We look forward to using this expertise to improve our ability to meet the needs of consumers with disabilities.

Source:http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2015/02/17/fcc-focus-disabilities/20065/

Self-Determination Network News:February2015

Connect|Share|Learn|http://sdnetworkwi.org/

Let Your Voice Be Heard! Wisconsin

Budget Proposal

If the state budget goes through as Governor Walker has proposed, it will mean big changes for the long-term care system in Wisconsin. People with disabilities and older people who use these services will experience changes to Family Care, IRIS, SeniorCare, personal care, plus other programs, services and supports.

The SD Network has added a page with information and links to help you understand how the proposed Budget will affect people who use the long-term care system. Take time today to check out ourWisconsin State Budget pageand to learn how you can let your voice be heard!

New on the SD Network: Stacys Journal

You may recognize the name of Stacy Ellingen as the online manager for the Self-Determination Network, but what else do you know about her? Stacy is someone who has some interesting ideas about her community, the services she uses, and whats happening in Wisconsin. Beginning this February, Stacy will be sharing some of her personal perspectives about life and disability-related issues on the SD Network.

This month, Stacyintroducesherself and then shares herperspective about the state budget proposal. So stop by and connect with Stacy!

Back by Popular Demand

Member Spotlight

The Self-Determination Network includes some amazingly talented members and we want to help you to get to know each other a little better. Were bringing back Member Spotlight as a way to help you get to know each other better.

For this month, we shine the Spotlight on the board president for InControl Wisconsin Lynn Breedlove. Some know him from his work with the Wisconsin Coalition for Advocacy (now Disability Rights Wisconsin) and the Survival Coalition, some know him from his current advocacy work and work with Partners in Policymaking. Stop by theMember Spotlightand get to know Lynn!

Do you know a SD Network member who we could shine a spotlight on next?

Due to popular demand, we're bringing back Coffee Breaks! Join us!

• Coffee Break: Self-Determination and Governor Walker's Budget Proposal: Thursday, March 5th, 2015, 9:00a.m. to 9:30a.m. CST

On Feb. 3, Wisconsin Governor Walker released his budget proposal for 2015-2017. Included in his proposal are the elimination of IRIS and major changes to FamilyCare, two key long-term care programs in the state.

So how do these proposed changes affect self-determination for the people who use these programs? And what can you do to let the Governor and your elected officials know about the effects of these proposed changes on your life or the life of someone you care about.

Join our special guest, Lynn Breedlove, to ask questions, share your thoughts andlearn more about the Governor's proposal. Lynn is the board president for InControl Wisconsin and a outspoken advocate for self-determination.

The Coffee Break is a live discussion (chat) on the Network, open to all members. Each Coffee Break has a different theme - participants will be asked to share their thoughts, questions, ideas and challenges on the subject.

You can join the discussion (chat) any time during the Coffee Break. Just sign in on the SD Network during the time you want to participate on the Network and then go to the Chat Room.

There's no need to register - however, it would help if you would RSVP so we have some idea if you will be joining us.

It Only Takes "Five"

Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the Self-Determination Network:

• Watch: Deb posted an interesting video about creating one page profiles for people who dont communicate verbally.

• Just Enough Support: Deb posted another great video about an approach to provide individuals with disabilities with just the right amount of support.

• ADA 25^thAnniversary: Read this great blog about the 25^thanniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

• ADA National Symposium: Find out how you can get stipends for the 2015 ADA National Symposium.

• Tax Resource: Heres a great tax resource for people with disabilities.

• ABLE Act Passage: Read about how the White House celebrated the passage of the ABLE Act.

• Be Inspired: Read this inspiring story about a Wauwatosa teen who doesnt let having a disability stop him!

• Post news or start a discussion: It's easy to do and a great way to share information and network with others!

New Members

Stop by to welcomeournewest members

• She has beeninvolved with SDSsince 2008.

• This very independent person islooking to make more connectionson the SD Network.

Do you know someone who should join the Self-Determination Network? Spread the word and invite friends, families and other interested folks!

Upcoming Events

Here's a sample ofupcoming eventslisted on the Self-Determination Network:

• Advocacy for Change: A Family Leadership Institute: March 4^th, 8:30a.m. to 5p.m., Concourse Hotel, Madison WI

• Coffee Break: Self-Determination and Governor Walker's Budget Proposal: March 5th, 9a.m. to 9:30a.m., SD Network Chat Room

• The SurvivalCoalition Disability Advocacy Day: March 17^th, Monona Terrace and Convention Center, Madison WI
  

• Circles of Life Conference 2015: April 30^thto May 1^st, Holiday Inn Convention Center, Stevens Point WI

• The National ADA Symposium: May 10^thto 13^th, National Center for Civil & Human Rights, Atlanta GA

• 3rd Annual Disability Pride Festival: July 25^th, 12p.m. to 5p.m., Brittingham Park, Madison WI

Post your eventon the Self-Determination Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Suggestions? ContactStacy Ellingen.

The Self-Determination Network is powered by In Control Wisconsin and supported financially by ourmembersandSponsors. We couldn't keep this Network going with you! Find out how you can help support the Network.

Statement from the Save IRIS Coalition

Meet Lynn Breedlove. Hes the board president for InControl Wisconsin and has many years of experience in the disability field. He full heartedly believes in Self-Determination and is a very strong advocate for people with disabilities across Wisconsin. We are so fortunate to have him as a member of the Network! So, lets shine the Member Spotlight on Lynn.

How are you involved with self-directed supports and self-determination? Why did you join the SDNetwork?

I was around when Family Care started and we advocated for the inclusion of a self-directed supports option. Later I was one of the people who helped Department of Human Services plan the IRIS program. Self-Determination is probably the most exciting idea I've come across in my 38 years in the disability field.

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination or Self-Directed Supports?

People First and other self advocates have made self determination one of their top priorities, and more and more self advocates are letting decision-makers know that. That reinforces my belief that this is the Way of the Future.

What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to direct their own supports, or who would want to be more self-determined?

Take control of your job search. Use your own personal networks and your family's networks to find opportunities for volunteer work, unpaid work experiences, or a real job. Don't wait for the vocational system to make it happen for you.

What message would you like to share with themembersof the SDNetwork?

Don't be discouraged by forces that are getting in the way of you self-directing your services. A lot of people believe you have a right to do that. If we all keep believing in it and fighting for it, it WILL happen.

What's your dream vacation?

I went to New Zealand once. I find myself re-living that trip more than any other one. That must mean something.

What do you love about the community you live in?

I live in the little village of Paoli, 15 miles southwest of Madison. We have 4 art galleries and no gas station. It's a quirky place and it attracts quirky people. Perfect for me.