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.

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

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.

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