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.

Stacys Journal: State Budget Proposal

By now, Im sure many of you have heard about how Governor Walkers biennial budget proposal would affect people with disabilities. Ill be the first to admit Im not big into politics, so when I first heard rumors about the proposed cuts, I wasnt overly concerned. However, when I kept hearing about the impact it would have on people with disabilities, I decided to take a closer look. I was appalled by what I found! I strongly encourage you to take a look at the information that is on Wisconsin Budget Proposal page.

After learning how the proposed budget would impact my life, I decided I needed to take action. After emailing my legislators and sending a letter to Governor Walker, I contacted my hometown newspaper, The Fond du Lac Reporter. They agreed to let me write a commentary on the topic. I really encourage you to share your thoughts and opinions about the budget proposal on the Network too.

Cuts will significantly affect people with disabilities

I'm 29 years old and live in Oshkosh.

I have a bachelor of arts degree in journalism with an emphasis in advertising from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. I live by myself in an apartment and am able to handle my own finances.

I started my own business doing freelance graphic design and social media. I'm also independently contracted with In Control Wisconsin and work as their online community network manager.

This probably doesn't seem like anything out of the ordinary until I share that I have a severe physical disability. Due to complications at birth, I have Athetoid Cerebral Palsy. I rely on an electric wheelchair to get around and use a communication device to communicate. I need assistance with all of my basic needs such as bathing, toileting, dressing and feeding.

I've been in the IRIS Include, Respect, I Self-Direct program for just over four years. I self-direct everything from my personal cares to my finances. Having control over everything and being able to self-direct my care has made me as independent as I can be.

Having independence is so important for people with similar situations like mine. Being able to have choices about which service providers we want to use and to decide where and how our funding is used is critical to our independence.

IRIS is a long-term care program financed with state and federal funds. Participants self-direct their supports. This means they have choice and control over which service providers they use and how funds are spent. It provides opportunities to create efficient use of tax dollars through small local personal control.

In Gov. Scott Walker's proposed budget, it suggests that the IRIS program be eliminated. Individuals using the IRIS will reportedly be moved to a proposed less flexible, larger government-driven model. IRIS is a smaller-government, locally controlled model that respects Wisconsin citizens' ability to make responsible decisions.

Eliminating the IRIS program would drastically impact my life in a negative way. It would take away independence that I continue to strive for. After years of self-directing everything myself, having other people dictate how my money is spent and what providers I use would be a huge slap in the face. People who want to self-direct their funding and supports should be able to continue to do so.

Furthermore, the proposed budget suggests major cuts in funding for personal care. Many people with disabilities myself included could not survive without personal care assistance. I'm not able to even take a sip of water without help.

Cutting personal care funds would significantly affect the lives of people with disabilities. We, as human beings, should have the right to the care we need so we can lead as successful lives as possible.

So, I kindly ask that legislators keep how it would affect the lives of people with disabilities in mind while considering the budget proposal. We're not asking you to move mountains. We just want to have the appropriate supports so we can live our lives to the fullest.

Stacy Ellingen is a former Fond du Lac resident now living independently in Oshkosh.

The views expressed here are strictly those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of InControl Wisconsin, the Network or any of our sponsors.

Stacys Journal: Introduction

Hi! My name is Stacy Ellingen. As many of you may know, Im the Online Community Network Manager for In-Control Wisconsin. In hopes initiating more conversation among our communities, Im going to be journaling about some of my personal experiences and thoughts about different topics related to the networks. By doing this, I hope it will inspire and encourage you to share some of your experiences as well.

To begin, I thought Id tell you a little bit about myself. Im 29 years old and Im from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. I have a Bachelors of Arts degree in Journalism with an emphasis in Advertising from UW-Whitewater. In addition to being a Network Manager for In Control, I also started my own business doing freelance graphic design and social media. My journey to employment was pretty incredible, but that will be another whole journal entry.

Due to complications at birth, I have Athetoid Cerebral Palsy. I use a power wheelchair to get around and a communication device to communicate. I need assistance with all of my basic needs such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and feeding. I live in my own apartment in Oshkosh and have care givers come in to assist me a couple of times per day.

Having a disability isnt easy by any means, but its not the worst thing in the world. Ive learned the importance of self-determination and self-advocacy over the years. I wouldnt be where I am today if I didnt advocate for myself. Many of us continue to have to fight the system in order to receive the supports we need to lead successful lives. I feel that its my responsibility to advocate for those who arent able to.

Im looking forward to sharing some of my experiences with you. My hope is that this will lead to good conversation. I encourage you to ask questions and share your story as well. We can learn so much from each other. That is what networking is all about!

This is an excellent article in theWauwatosa Nowwritten by Heather Ronaldson about a young many doesn't let having a disability limit him. His achievements already are incredible, but he has bigger goals. This is a very well-written article explaining his diagnosis, struggles, and triumphs.

As a teenager with autism, Aaron Krause of Wauwatosa advocates for those on the spectrum

Achieves Eagle Scout rank, high school graduation and college enrollment

By Heather Ronaldson

Like any high school senior, Aaron Krause cheered for joy when he received his high school diploma. It arrived in the mail Feb. 6, months earlier than his counterparts.

Aaron had graduated early and upon receipt of his diploma yelled, "My diploma, my high school diploma!" and fist-pumped.

Aaron has always loved learning, but it wasn't until he enrolled in Kradwell School, 1220 Dewey Ave., that he saw school as a safe place to learn. As a teenager with autism, he has endured his share of classroom bullying in the Wauwatosa public school system.

"At one point, things looks pretty dismal for his future. He's very aware of how Kradwell changed his world, giving him a future he would not have had otherwise. For a teen who had high school graduation at risk, this is a huge deal," said his mother, Sandy Krause, in an email.

Sandy described autism as a "spectrum disorder," in which those diagnosed have a range of capabilities, from verbal to nonverbal skills. Aaron is verbal and high-functioning.

His goal is to be a systems engineer for Microsoft in Seattle. Bill Gates, Albert Einstein and Temple Grandin all had Asperberger's syndrome, or autism, said Aaron. As a computer lover, he is most grateful for Bill Gates' invention of Windows Microsoft.

"People with autism aren't stupid no matter how much people say they are," said Aaron.

With his high school diploma in hand, Aaron started his first semester of college classes at Milwaukee Area Technical College West Allis in January. He is majoring in electronic engineering technology.

An early diagnosis

Doctors diagnosed Aaron with autism at age five. He used to attend public Wauwatosa schools but switched to Kradwell in eighth grade for its half-day class structure and five students-to-one teacher ratio.

The new environment grew Aaron's self-advocacy. Assistant Principal Mary Helen Schulte described him as diligent, bright, capable and "all about justice and fairness."

"We are very proud of everything he's accomplished so far and know he's going to keep moving forward and be successful," said Schulte.

The Krauses also attended a teen and adult autism support group founded by Carole Burns of Oak Creek. The group facilitated open discussion among members who may have been diagnosed later in life and had questions. It also created "face time" for those on the spectrum who felt segregated in society, said Burns.

"I am just so proud of Aaron. One of the goals he's always had is to go to college, and from what I've seen he's doing really well and making that happen for himself," said Burns, who turned the support group over to Sandy Krause's leadership one year ago. "For Aaron to overcome and make these strides is huge."

Climbing ranks

This year also marked another noteworthy milestone for Aaron: achieving Eagle Scout rank in Troop 21.

Aaron fulfilled his childhood dream as he completed his Eagle Scout board of review in November 2014, and celebrated his court of honor ceremony January 2015.

Aaron joined scouting as a senior kindergartner. Since then, his goal has always been to reach Eagle Scout.

Boy Scouts helps teach boys confidence and independence, because there is no timeline to complete merit badges.

"It's boy-directed. That's an advantage for special needs boys. They get it done on their own schedule and it does teach them that self-motivation," said Steve Weber, Troop 21 scoutmaster.

Camping and swimming merit badges took Aaron out of his comfort zone, but it was that "push" that helped him to grow, said Sandy.

"The one thing Aaron did for Troop 21 is teach other boys around him how to accommodate special needs and not be upset or bothered by them," said Weber. "He's accepted his disability, but I don't think he sees it as a disability."

Wisconsin Senator Leah Vukmir attended the court of honor ceremony in support of Aaron, who lobbied with Vukmir to support a special needs scholarship and autism insurance mandate at the Capitol.

"Aaron holds her in high regard," said Sandy.

Later this month, Aaron will speak about his experience with autism and scouting on Sirius Satellite Radio.

His goal? "To help other people know about autism. It'll help," said Aaron. He also hopes to encourage other Boy Scouts with autism.

This is one of many speaking engagements Aaron has participated in.

Others include testifying before a Senate committee meeting on special needs scholarships, speaking for the Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin and for Marquette University's Urban Autism Summit.

Aaron worked with Burns' non-profit organization, Einstein Productions, to produce his Eagle Scout video project. Einstein Productions is a training and mentoring organizations for individuals with autistism and those who are non-diagnosed to learn how to create websites, flash animation, produce video and photography, and more.

His video "All Are Welcome," shows the acceptance of people with special needs at his faith community, Divine Word Pentecost Lutheran Church in Milwaukee.

Source: http://www.wauwatosanow.com/news/autistic-teenager-aaron-krause-of-wauwatosa-advocates-for-those-on-the-spectrum-b99440585z1-291523801.html