2007 Season
Here is a complete listing of all the shows in 2007.
Stories from old seasons can be found under Archived Stories.

Show 701 and 714
Aired 11/08/06 and 04/07/07
Story 1 - The Propolyn House
Housing solutions come in many forms. In Marquette, MI the Propolyn House was created over 20 years ago to cater to individuals with disabilities that wanted to live independently. With beautiful grounds and comfortable living arrangements, the Propolyn House has become a benchmark that many follow. Contact them at the Propylon Non-Profit Housing Corp. Phone 906-228-4446 or email at PROPYLON1@aol.com

Story 2 - The Flint Flying Eagles
Oakwood Hospital in Dearborn MI got a team of patients, doctors, nurses and technicians together to play against the best in wheelchair basketball – The Flint Flying Eagles. All of course for a good cause. If you’d like to attend this years game contact the Flint Flying Eagles - (989) 795-2637.

Show 702 and 715
Aired 11/15/06 and 04/14/07
Story 1 - The Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame
The Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame once again held its annual dinner. A great time was had by all and several new inductees were honored. The Hall of Fame is a worthy institution and one that deserves your support. To contact them go online to www.adhof.org

Story 2 - Spina Bifida Association conference
Spina Bifida affects thousand of Americans. In fact the recent Spina Bifida Association conference held in Livonia, MI drew tremendous crowds. One of our guests on this weeks show was the infamous Leaping Larry. For more information on future conferences contact the Spina Bifida Association at www.SBAA.org

Story 3 - Richard Bernstein
Richard Bernstein is an attorney who regularly fights for the rights of those with disabilities. Being visually disabled himself, he knows what it means to have a disability and is making some great progress. On this weeks show Richard takes us to Wayne State University to show us how they are integrating Basketball into their many programs.

Show 703 and 716
Aired 11/22/06 and 04/21/07
Story 1 - The PVA Games
I don’t think anyone does more for the disabled than The Paralyzed Veterans of America. Every year hundreds of athletes gather to compete in The PVA Games. This year they took place in Anchorage Alaska. An incredible venue for an incredible competition.

Story 2 - Miracle League - Southfield, Michigan
"The Miracle League" is a charitable organization that provides children with mental and/or physical challenges an opportunity to play baseball as a team member in an organized league. There is something about playing the game of baseball that lights up youngsters’ eyes, but for children facing physical and mental challenges, that opportunity can often be a difficult first step. The Miracle League gives these children the opportunity to get out in the sunshine, and enjoy playing the game of baseball in its purest form. For more information visit www.michiganmiracle.org.

 

Show 704 and 717
Aired 11/29/06 and 04/28/07
Story 1 - Oakland County Sheriff’s Department
Getting out on a lake to do some fishing is a summer dream for many. Thanks to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department, that dream comes true every year. Over 1800 kids with disabilities, that’s right, 1800 kids get to go out on the lake in one of over 90 volunteer vessels to enjoy some sun, fun, and fabulous fishing.

 

Show 705 and 718
Aired 12/06/06 and 05/07/07
Story 1 - The Michigan Thunderbirds Basketball
The Michigan Thunderbirds compete at the highest level in wheelchair basketball. We visited a recent game played at the Palace of Auburn Hills. The action was fast and furious and all the kids had a great time.

Show 706 and 719
Aired 12/13/06 and 05/14/07
Story 1 - The Michigan Youth Leadership Forum
Where are our leaders going to come from? Who is our next agent of change? The Michigan Youth Leadership Forum meets every year for five days with some of our brightest kids. Mentors, guest speakers and on-hands training give the kids the skills they need to help bring about change in their communities.

 

Show 707 and 720
Aired 12/20/06 and 05/21/07
Story 1 - Camp for Adults with Visual Impairment
Come along with host Roger McCarville as he visits Jackson, Michigan and a special Camp for Adults with Visual Impairment. Started several years ago, this camp has become a “must attend” event for those adults to participate in a great American tradition.

Story 2 - Cerebral Palsy Games - Lansing, Michigan
For more than 55 years, UCP (a.k.a. United Cerebral Palsy) has been committed to change and progress for persons with disabilities. The national organization and its nationwide network of affiliates strive to ensure the inclusion of persons with disabilities in every facet of society - from the Web to the workplace, from the classroom to the community. As one of the largest health charities in America, UCP's mission is to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities through an affiliate network. Recently, Disabilities Today traveled to Lansing, Michigan to talk to some of the people involved with the annual Michigan Cerebral Palsy Games.

Show 708 and 721
Aired 12/27/06 and 05/28/07
Story 1 - Veterans Day
Veterans Day is when Americans honor the men and women in the military who have fought and died for the freedom we enjoy. With the war in Iraq, this Veterans Day is as pertinent as ever. Host Roger McCarville shares this night with veterans with spinal cord disabilities and their families as they raise funds, honor their peers and get some well-deserved recognition.

Story 2 - Golf Xpress
Golf Xpress is the patented, single-rider golf car that goes everywhere the golfer goes - onto the tees, into the traps and even onto the greens. For more information visit www.GolfXpress.com.

Story 3 - Tony Rubino
The Muscular Dystrophy Association Michigan Chapter recently held a unique fundraising event. Local Michigan boxers from the famous Kronk Gym held boxing matches to raise funds for people with MS. The main event though was three local businessmen getting their heads shaved. They allowed the hair to be cut by the highest bidder. The evening ended with over $30,000 being raised to help those in need.

Show 709 and 722
Aired 1/03/07 and 06/04/07
Story 1 - Access Days at Northern Michigan University
Northern Michigan University in Marquette Michigan hosts a unique conference on issues that are important to the disabled community. Guest speakers include Elmer Cerano, President of the Michigan Protection and Advocacy Services and also shows some of the newest trends in adaptive technology..

Story 2 - The Standing Company
The Superstand Standing Wheelchair Company is located in Saginaw, Michigan. They have been making unique standing wheelchairs since 1990. The Standing Company's standing chair will allow someone who is normally confined to a seated position in a traditional wheelchair, to stand up and stretch out with ease & safety, at any time, in any place. Many in the medical profession agree that a regular program of standing up, if you're confined to a wheelchair can help to prevent many problems associated with wheelchair confinement such as skin breakdown, urinary tract infections, bone demineralization, poor circulation, spasticity, muscle contractures and shoulder and neck pain. Disabilities Today spent the day at the Standing Company to see their chairs and talked to the people involved. For more information about the Standing Company visit www.thestandingcompany.com or call (800) STANDING.

Story 3 - Ace Swimsuits
Dave Emmings has lived with dwarfism his whole life and as a result, finding work and employers that are sympathetic to his disability can prove to be difficult. After a progression in his disability Dave found that working for himself may be the answer. Dave designs and manufactures his own line of swimsuits. We had a chance to see some of his designs and speak to him about his business. For more information visit www.aceswimsuits.com.

Show 710 and 723
Aired 1/10/07 and 06/11/07
Story 1 - Freedom to Work MedicAid Buy-in
The unemployment rate among people with disabilities is well over 60%. One of the main reasons is the fear of losing Medicaid benefits. With the Freedom to Work MedicAid Buy-in act passed in 2005, this no longer poses a problem. Meet the people who benefit and the people who were instrumental in getting this important legislation passed.

Story 2 - Battle Creek, Michigan Veterans Cemetery
Fort Custer was named after General George Armstrong Custer, a native of the State of Michigan. The original Camp Custer was built on 130 parcels of land, mainly small farms leased to the government by the local Chamber of Commerce, in 1917 as part of the military mobilization effort for World War I. After a two-year grace period, the Army was allowed to buy it for about $98 an acre. Congress established Fort Custer National Cemetery in September 1981. Comprised of 566 acres from the Fort Custer Military Reservation and 203 acres from the VA Medical Center combined for a total of 769 acres for the national cemetery. The first burial in the national cemetery took place on June 1, 1982, even though construction was still taking place. There were approximately 2,600 gravesites available in the post cemetery, which made it possible for veterans to be buried there while the new cemetery was being developed. On Memorial Day 1982, more than 33 years after the first resolution had been introduced in Congress, impressive ceremonies marked the official opening of the cemetery. The cemetery was formally dedicated on September 23, 1984. In the summer of 1983, Dennis J. Johnson was named the first director of the Fort Custer national Cemetery, and served until the summer of 1988. Fort Custer National Cemetery is currently the third largest of the 120 National Cemeteries managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration. Fort Custer National Cemetery is the tenth most active VA national cemetery. We visited and talked to the director to learn more about the services available to veterans. To learn more visit www.fortcusternationalcemetery.com.

Show 711 and 724
Aired 1/17/07 and 06/18/07
Story 1 - Adaptive Technology.
Adaptive Technology. In today’s world technology is helping more people than ever. From assisting the visually impaired, to helping people drive, adaptive technology is helping people with disabilities become more and more independent every day. On this show you’ll see the newest in technology and what’s in our future .

Story 2 - VA Hospital - Battle Creek, Michigan
The Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center provides comprehensive psychiatric care, primary and secondary medical care, specialty care, extended and long-term care, preventive medicine, and related social support services for veterans in the western and lower peninsula of Michigan. They also provide a variety of outpatient services. The 484-bed facility includes nursing home care, a medical care unit, a primary care clinic, physical medicine, and a mental health clinic. The Medical Center has 40 academic affiliations with 18 colleges for a variety of health occupations. We had to see this fascinating facility for ourselves. We visited the hospital and talked to a couple of therapists about how they serve our veterans. To learn more visit www.va.gov.

Story 3 - Bertram Weston
Bertram Weston is an artist who is fluent in American Sign Language and uses this language along with creative dance and popular music to educate, teach and entertain hearing, deaf and hard of hearing audiences. He uses music, song, dance and sign language to send a powerful, positive message to people to believe in one's ability to succeed. Bertram grew up in New York City. Over the years he faced many challenges. Being deaf and wearing hearing aids as a young child, and even now as an adult led to being labeled. It is his goal to educate individuals that being "different" is okay. It is his hope that education will help to break down society's biases created by the lack of knowledge and lack of exposure that lead to misconceptions and fears. These misconceptions and fears are what cause people to give labels to others, stereotyping them and perpetuating the biases and discrimination that result. We saw him perform at Oakland Community College in Waterford, Michigan during diversity week. For more information visit www.bertramweston.com.

Show 712 and 725
Aired 1/24/07 and 06/25/07
Story 1 - Future Cities
Can we design our future cities to be accessible to all? Absolutely says some of the industries most watched players. Come along with Roger McCarville and see how your grandkids may be living.

Story 2 - Yoga
It is difficult to find balance without the ability to look inward, whether it is physical balance or balance in our daily lives. Starting the day healthfully can be as simple as breathing and stretching. An important component of a total fitness program is stretching. Add focused deep breathing to a stretch and you've entered into the world of yoga. Even if you are disabled you can benefit from this exercise. We talked to a Yoga instructor about it’s benefits for the disabled.

Story 3 - Camp Dearborn Sailing
Michigan Adaptive Sports (MAS) is an organization established for the purpose of providing sports, recreation and physical fitness opportunities for persons with disabilities. They offer a competitive aspect as a part of our program for those seeking a higher challenge and host many annual clinics and events, which provide ample challenges and opportunities for fun and excitement. They are able to provide these sports and activities to a wide range of people. Participants are of all ages, from young children to adults, and their disabilities include amputation, paralysis, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, developmental disabilities, head injuries, and many others. We talked with Doug Pingston about a sailing program that he is helping to start. For more information please visit www.michiganadaptivesports.org.

Show 713 and 726
Aired 1/31/07 and 07/01/07
Story 1 - Team Hollywood
Yeah they’re made up of former NBA players, college stars and even some Harlem Globetrotters, but can they beat the best of the best in wheelchair basketball? Tune in to see what the outcome is..

Show 712
Re-Aired April 28 - May 5 2007
Aired January 28 - February 4 20074
Story 1 - Sled Hockey
Sled hockey is an exciting alternative sport that uses the rules of hockey. However, instead of skating, the players sit on a specially designed sled and use two short ice picks to propel themselves across the ice. We talked to Charlene Trick, the Director of Sled Hockey Program and to Bill Allossery, a Sled Hockey Coach to learn more about this sport. For more information contact Charlene Trick at d3sledhockey@aol.com or call 248-680-0839. To find a local Sled Hockey league in your area visit http://www.usahockey.com/disable_hockey/main/home.

Story 2 - Wheelchair Basketball
We were recently in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and attended a few games of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association. We watched the Flint Flying Eagles, the Dallas Mavericks, and the Denver Nuggets. The games were exciting and kept us on the edge of our seats! It showed us what D-1 ball was all about. For more information visit www.nwba.org.

Story 3 - Internet Voting
Michigan recently passed legislation to allow voters in Michigan to vote over the internet for the 2004 Presidental Caucus. This will prove to be historic for disabled persons that may have a hard time with mobility. Now they can vote without having to leave the comfort of their home. We spoke to a couple of the people involved in Lansing, Michigan to hear what internet voting can do for disabled people. For more information visit www.applytovote.com.

Story 4 - Florida Book - The Most Comprehensive and Best Ever Guide to Accessible Fun
Wheelchairs on the Go: Accessible Fun in Florida is Florida's only access guide for visitors and residents who use canes, walkers or wheelchairs or simply can't walk far. This 424-page paperback lists wheelchair-accessible and barrier-free accommodations, tourist attractions and activities from the Panhandle to Orlando to Key West. With attention to detail and respect for the range of readers' physical challenges, Wheelchairs on the Go: Accessible Fun in Florida describes potential barriers and how to overcome them to have fun! For more information visit www.wheelchairsonthego.com or e-mail them at info@wheelchairsonthego.com.

Show 711
Re-Aired April 21 - April 28 2007
Aired January 21 - January 28 2007
Story 1 - Challenged Athletes Triathlon
Recently, Disabilities Today was in San Diego, California to cover the Challenged Athletes Triathlon. The Challenged Athletes Foundation was created on the belief that people of all abilities should have the opportunity to pursue a life full of physical activity and sports. Be they recreational or in pursuit of a gold medal at the Paralympic Games. Most times people with a physical disability are limited only by their access to funding. As one of the very few charities that provides grants directly to athletes with a physical disability, the Challenged Athletes Foundation has rasied over 2.7 million dollars and directly assisted 875 challenged athletes worldwide. A small endowment fund has been created to ensure challenged athletes will always have a place to go for funding. To learn more visit www.challengedathletes.org.

Story 2 - Patricia M. Sitar Center - Washington D.C.
The Patricia M. Sitar Center for the Arts is a community arts center located in the multicultural Adams Morgan neighborhood of Washington, DC. It focuses primarily on programs and activities for at-risk children, youth, and their families but reaches out to all community members through shared experiences in the arts. By providing a safe, structured, and nurturing environment in which to explore music, dance, drama, writing, and visual arts, the Sitar Center serves as a catalyst not only for the imagination, but for developing the cognitive and life skills of all participating community members.
The Patricia M. Sitar Center for the Arts is a community arts organization offering after-school, Saturday, and summer arts education programs to residents of the Adams Morgan neighborhood. Each semester, the Sitar Center serves over 100 students in the areas of music, dance, drama, writing, and visual art. The programs are accessible and affordable to the youth in the neighborhood. Most students pay a fee of $15 per semester for unlimited classes. For more information visit www.sitarcenter.org.

Story 3 - Disability Rights - Lansing, Michigan
The State of Michigan recently brought before committee Senate Bill 564 and 565. Senate Bill 564 would amend the Business Opportunity Act For Persons With Disabilities to require each State department, each year, to award at least 3% of its total expenditures for construction, goods, and services (minus expenditures to sole source venders) to businesses owned by persons with disabilities. Currently, the Act provides that it is the goal of each department to award each year at least 3% of its total expenditures to such businesses. Michigan wants to make that a law instead of a "goal". Senate Bill 565 would amend the Management and Budget Act to provide that “expenditures” under the Act would be subject to the requirements of the Business Opportunity Act For Persons With Disabilities, and define that term as it is defined in that Act. The bill is tie-barred to Senate Bill 564. Under the Business Opportunity Act For Persons With Disabilities, “expenditures” means payments and contracts for goods, services, and construction that may be acquired competitively and are not regulated by separate authority, and, where a department acts as the sole or primary contracting officer and has selective discretion as to the supplier, vendor, or contractor. This does not apply to expenditures by the Department of Transportation for road and bridge construction projects that receive certain Federal funds. “Business owned by persons with disabilities” means a business in which more than 50% of the voting shares or interest in the business is owned, controlled, and operated by one or more persons with disabilities; more than 50% of the net profit or loss attributable to the business accrues to shareholders who are persons with disabilities; and more than 50% of the employees of the business are State residents.
The Michigan Senate sponsor of the bills 564 & 565 is Ingham county Democratic Senator from Lansing Virg Bernero. We had an opportunity to hear him present the bill to committee and get his thoughts on the importance of this legislation. For more information contact Virg Bernero at SenVBernero@senate.michigan.gov.

Show 710
Re-Aired April 14 - April 21 2007
Aired January 14 - January 21 2007
Story 1 - da Vinci Awards™
The Engineering Society of Detroit (ESD) and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), Michigan Chapter have joined forces in an annual collaborative recognition venture. This venture, the da Vinci Awards™, honors outstanding engineering achievements relative to design process, product design and applied research as relate to accessibility and universal design issues.
The da Vinci Awards™ recognize individuals, organizations and/or corporations in the engineering, construction and technical realm whose design innovations have enabled people and improved accessibility, regardless of their ability. Achievements exceed any legally mandated requirements, such as those expressed in the Americans with Disabilities Act or the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Disabilities Today went to the da Vinci Awards™ and talked to this year’s winners. For more information visit www.esd.org/davinci/index.html.

Story 2 - Mexicoach
Disabilities Today was recently in San Diego, California and visited Tijuana, Mexico. We found a transportation service called Mexicoach that caters to accessibility. The service is $4.00 per person to travel to downtown Tijuana. Mexicoach is America's number 1 international border-crossing shuttle bus company making over 96 crossings daily with it's fleet of 15 bright-red buses with departures every 15 to 20 minutes from 8:00am to 9:00pm, 365 days a year. For more information visit www.gototijuana.com/mexicoach.

Story 3 - Ms. Wheelchair America Pageant - Des Moines, Iowa
Ms. Wheelchair America was started in 1972 by a Columbus, Ohio physician, Dr. Philip K. Wood, who devoted his career to the treatment and rehabilitation of functionally impaired individuals. He was aware of the talent, capabilities, determination and courage of the disabled. This physician established Ms. Wheelchair America as a forum for the promotion of the achievements as well as the needs of mobility impaired persons. The non-profit program is staffed and coordinated by volunteers throughout the country dedicated to increasing public awareness so that all its citizens will be able to lead productive and meaningful lives.
Unlike the Miss America Pageant, the Ms. Wheelchair America Program is in no way a beauty contest. It is instead a competition to select the most accomplished and articulate spokesperson for the millions of disabled Americans. The selected representative must be able to communicate both the needs and the accomplishments of her constituency to the general public, the business community and the legislature.
As Ms. Wheelchair America, her duties are numerous. Each year she has had the opportunity to travel, visiting advocacy groups, making public appearances and conducting radio, print and TV interviews in the fulfillment of her responsibilities. These include promoting awareness of the need to eliminate architectural and altitudinal barriers, informing the able-bodied public of the achievements of disabled people across the nation and promoting Ms. Wheelchair America by assisting in the establishment of programs in all the states.
Disabilities Today recently attended the Ms. Wheelchair America Pageant in Des Moines, Iowa and watched Cinda Hughes, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma be crowned Ms. Wheelchair America 2004. For more information visit www.mswheelchairamerica.org.

Show 709
Re-Aired April 7 - April 14 2007
Aired January 7 - January 14 2007
Story 1 - National Sports Center for the Disabled - Winter Park, Colorado
The National Sports Center for the Disabled was founded in Winter Park, Colorado in 1970 when Winter Park Resort’s ski school director agreed to teach skiing to a group of child amputees from The Children’s Hospital of Denver. Now, over three decades later, the NSCD is widely considered the largest-and most successful-outdoor therapeutic recreation agency in the world. Each year, thousands of children and adults with disabilities take to the ski slopes, mountain trails and golf links to learn more about sports-and themselves. With specially trained staff and its own adaptive equipment lab, the NSCD teaches a variety of summer and winter sports to individuals with almost any mental or physical disability.
The NSCD offers programs for all levels of ability, from beginner to advanced. Currently the National Sports Center for the Disabled offers alpine skiiing, rafting, ski racing, therapeutic horseback riding, hand-crank and tandem biking, snowboarding, blind rock climbing, golf and so much more. For more information visit www.nscd.org or call the National Sports Center for the Disabled at (970) 726-1540 or (303) 316-1540.

Story 2 - Warren Orlick
We recently attended the Warren Orlick Golf Memorial. This event has been an ongoing fundraiser for the past seven years. The profits raised go to the Michigan Oakland County Parks and Recreation. They use this money to buy adaptive equipment. Some of the gear purchased is gripping aids and golf prosthetics, adapted golf clubs, and single rider golf carts. These vehicles are equipped to assist individuals with disabilities help play the game. Warren was a special person who helped make a difference in the lives of others. He helped people with disabilities learn to play golf.
Warren was a golf professional. He began his life in golf as a caddie and shop assistant at age eight at the Grosse Pointe Michigan Golf & Country Club. From there he advanced to assistant professional in 1932. He was head professional at the Monroe Michigan Golf & Country Club from 1940 to 1952, a term that was interrupted by serving in the U.S. Army.
Warren was wounded in the war and sent back home on convalescent leave. While there he worked at the VA hospitals teaching disabled verterans how to golf. This was the first time that he began to work with the disabled.
In 1955, Orlick was named the first chairman of The PGA of America's Rules of Golf Committee, and went on to serve as a Rules official at golf's Grand Slam events, including nearly a half century at the Masters. Last April at Augusta National Golf Club, Orlick was honored for his service at the Masters.
Over the next 12 years, Orlick began Adaptive Golf leagues and tournaments as well as designed many devices to make it easier for golfers with disabilities to play and continue to enjoy the game.
During this period, Orlick volunteered at St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital in Pontiac, Mich., assisting and teaching the physically challenged to enjoy the game of golf.
In 2002 Warren was presented with the Rick Knas Lifetime Achievement Award for his significant contributions to Michigan's athletes with disabilities. Sharing his vast knowledge of the game with disabled golfers was a passion for Warren, and he designed many devices to make it easier to play. He took his passion for golf and instilled it into each of his students. The remarkable part is the fact that Warren was 90 years old and still teaching the game he loved. We were honored to have known Warren and proud to be a part of the Warren Orlick Golf Memorial. To learn more about upcoming events for the disabled visit www.co.oakland.mi.us/parksrec.

Story 3 - Michigan Rehabilitation Conference - Traverse City, Michigan
The Michigan Rehabilitation Conference took place in Traverse City, Michigan in November 2003. The purpose of the conference is to bring together different businesses from all over the country to show off their goods and promote themselves. We were able to speak to some of the smaller entrepreneurs to hear about their businesses.
The evening was highlighted with a speech from the Governor of Michigan, Jennifer Granholm's Disability Policy Advisor Pat Cannon. Pat is blind and knows first-hand about the challenges a disabled person can face.

Show 708
Re-Aired March 31 - April 7 2007
Originally Aired December 31 2003 - January 7 2007
Story 1 - Fairweather Lodge - San Antonio, Texas
Fairweather Lodge is a housing and employment program that enhances the lives of adults with a mental health disability. Fairweather Lodge Program (FWL) was established in San Antonio, Texas in 1977.
The basic idea or philosophy behind Fairweather Lodge is the concept of group process dynamics. In the Lodge Program, the group has tremendous power in shaping and changing behavior by identifying inappropriate behavior. The Program enables and empowers the group to make decisions, become responsible and thus develop ownership in the program that make them independent. The most important components of the Lodge Program are social support and gainful employment.
A lodge is a home where residents establish their own support system which enables them to maintain an independent existence in the community. The members attend group meetings where they learn problem solving skills, living skills, leadership skills, and develop group decision making. It is a unique environment where they live as a family unit. It provides norms and peer support.
The goal of the lodge is to create a family atmosphere where there is love, caring, concern for another’s problems and welfare, understanding, and a feeling of belonging. Unlike other programs, the members become part of the community as a family. This becomes their home without a time limit being placed on their stay. The members (not staff) are responsible for maintaining the lodge. The operation of the lodge demands that procedures and roles be developed to handle meal preparation, grocery shopping, paying bills, chores, medication and work.
Fairweather Lodge is not for everyone. Members must have a mental health disability; they must be voted on by the group, willing to work 15-20 hours a week, go to school or volunteer, be medication compliant and willing to live with others. When the above factors are met, there is a great chance for success. Many years of experience has shown this to be a truly marvelous community program in which everyone benefits from the success.
Disabilities Today recently spent a few days in San Antonio, Texas to see what the Fairweather Lodge is all about.
For more information visit www.saum.org/Fairweather.aspx or contact lodge@saum.org or call the Lodge Coordinator at (210) 431-6466.

Story 2 - Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan Grand Opening
Since 1951, Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan (RIM) has been helping people rebuild their lives after a serious illness or injury. RIM offers a full spectrum of comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services. These services are spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, stroke, cerebral palsy, musculoskeletal disorders, low back problems, amputations, geriatric conditions, work-related injuries, sports injuries and other medical conditions requiring physical rehabilitation.
They’ve recently built and renovated a new wing to their facility. We talked to Dennis Jones, he is the Director of Development for RIM. He told us about the new facility and what new services will be provided. We also talked to Mike Wallace. As a result of a catastrophic automobile accident in August of 1996, Mike suffered a high cervical neck injury resulting in paralysis. He has faced the life given him and dealt with it. He started a non-profit fundraiser called the Mike Wallace Invitational. It raises money used for Spinal Chord Research. He donated $250,000 to the DMC to use for research and to help build this new facility. For more information visit www.rimrehab.org and www.scirecovery.org.

Story 3 - Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan Documentary
When we visited the Rehab Institute of Michigan we came across a filmmaker named Steve Palackdharry. Since 1990, Palackdharry Productions has earned a national reputation for creative, story-telling and technical excellence, and is one of the most decorated production companies in Michigan. The company is known for its unique ability to capture and articulate the spirit of organizations and individuals committed to making a difference in the lives of others. The mission of Palackdharry Productions is to use the full power of the medium to help create community and to help others fulfill their similar mission. He produced an excellent documentary about RIM. He highlighted the stories of several patients and followed one from the beginning to the end of his therapy. His film is testimony about the great services that RIM provides to its patients. To learn more please visit www.palackdharryproductions.com.

Show 707
Re-Aired March 24 - March 31 2007
Originally Aired December 24 - December 31 2006
Story 1 - Hunting
Hunting is a pastime that many enjoy and if you’re disabled there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to participate yourself. The Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America recently held their annual Deer Hunt. It was held at the Fort Custer Army National Guard Base in Augusta, Michigan. The base allows hunters to use the land during hunting season. The Michigan PVA put on a great event and made sure that everyone was able to participate. For more information visit www.fortcusterhunt.com.

Story 2 - Jessica's Story
Jessica's story is a special one. She was born without arms but that hasn’t stopped her from accomplishing her goals. Despite her limitations she has made life happen on her own terms. Her determination is an inspiration to others. She recently graduated High School and has met some special people that wanted to help her out. She was given a brand new Saturn car as a graduation gift to help her get back and forth to college. We were there and covered this inspiring story.

Story 3 - SIMS Texas
SIMS, Services Invested in Musician Support, is a non profit organization founded and based in Austin, Texas. They create the opportunity for low cost mental health services for Austin area musicians and their immediate families. In 1995, when beloved Austin musician Sims Ellison lost his battle with depression and took his own life, a local columnist mused in print that a mental health service geared toward musicians would be an appropriate way to remember him. Inspired by that, SIMS came into being--just two months after the tragedy-- financed by $3000.00 given by friends and family in lieu of flowers. We had a Disabilities Today crew in Austin, Texas and talked to Paul Minor to learn more about this great program. To find out more information visit www.simsfoundation.org.

Story 4 - Easter Seals Car Raffle
Easter Seals recently raffled off His & Hers Chevrolet Corvettes to benefit the Easter Seals Charity. The raffle took place at Buff Whelan Chevrolet in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Easter Seals Child Ambassador Justin Spigner got to pick the winner. The His & Hers car raffles are sponsored by Century 21 Town and Country. For more information visit www.carraffles.com and www.century21town-country.com.

Show 706
Re-Aired March 17 - March 24 2007
Originally Aired December 17 - December 24 2006
Story 1 - Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame
The Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame was established in June of 1999. Several prominent members of the corporate community, including presenting sponsor Unisys Corporation, joined Wright & Filippis in offering support to the new Hall of Fame. This is the first association of its kind in the state of Michigan, as a variety of state-wide groups representing the disabled community have joined forces to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of current and former athletes.
The Hall of Fame's mission is to honor athletes with disabilities who have demonstrated achievement in sports and are positive role models in the community, as well as to educate the public about sports for the disabled. The Hall of Fame also aspires to provide support for sports and recreation programs for disabled individuals and their families. All proceeds raised by the organization are used to help future funding of the Hall of Fame as well as to further the Hall of Fame's mission. For more information please www.adhof.org.

Story 2 - Read to Achieve
The NBA’s Read to Achieve program is a year-round campaign to help young people develop a life-long love for reading and encourage adults to read regularly to children. Reaching an estimated 50 million children a year, Read to Achieve is the most extensive educational outreach initiative in the history of professional sports. In addition to being supported by all 29 NBA teams, 16 WNBA teams, the eight teams that make up the NBA's new minor league, the National Basketball Development League (NBDL), Read to Achieve is supported by the NBA's officials, parents and wives of players organizations, and the NBA Players Association and Retired Players Association. Disabilities Today spent the day with some of the Detroit Pistons to see what this program was all about. For more information about the NBA and Read to Achieve visit www.nba.com/features/rta_index.html.

Story 3 - Florida Sailing
The Disabilities Today crew was recently in Florida. We talked with Mika Ainken about a program that she’s involved with. She helps train disabled athletes for competition in sailing. Her trained athletes have competed in the Paralympics and in various athletic events. To learn more about the Paralympics visit www.paralympic.org.

Story 4 - Hotel Isis
When the Disabilities Today crew was in Florida we were fortunate enough to stay at a wonderful place called The Hotel Isis. The Hotel Isis is a quaint, luxurious, 40-room beachside boutique hotel. They have a large heated-pool, tropical garden, ocean-view sun decks and hammocks, and a private beach. The best part is that it’s just steps away from the warm, soothing waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Located on the little-known barrier island of Redington Shores, Florida they’re the perfect setting for couples, lovers, business travelers, small families, and special events. To learn more about them visit their website at www.hotelisis.com.

Show 705
Re-Aired March 10 - March 17 2007
Aired December 10 - December 17 2006
Story 1 - IBM
Our show this week is all about IBM. When people think about IBM most people think all they do is computers. We spent a few days at the IBM laboratories in Austin, Texas to find out about all the new technology IBM offers and will be offering to the public in the near future. For more information about IBM visit www.ibm.com/able and www.ibm.com/software/pervasive.

Show 704
Re-Aired March 3 - March 10 2007
Originally Aired December 3 - December 10 2006
Story 1 - Medicaid Buy-In
Historic legislation was just signed into law by Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm regarding Medicaid Buy-In. Disabilities Today attended the bill signing and spoke to the people responsible for bringing the whole thing together.
Eligibility for the Buy-In Program builds on the state’s current poverty-related category. Under the state’s current poverty level standards, an adult with a disability whose total income is less than the poverty level (about $750 monthly for one person) can qualify for Medicaid. Persons who go to work may have combined SSDI income and income from earnings which exceed the poverty level standard and then must qualify for Medicaid under special rules that require them to spend down to an income of approximately $350 monthly.
To solve this problem, the Buy-In program will count income from earnings and income from other sources in different ways. Income from sources other than work will be compared to the poverty-level standard. Income from earnings will not be counted. A working adult with a disability will qualify for Medicaid without a spend down as long as his non-work income (e.g. SSDI) is less the poverty level
With the unearned income limit in place, the state is likely to experience few new costs due to the program expansion. Persons with SSDI benefits above the poverty level will not qualify for coverage under the program, but a significant number of persons with lower levels of SSDI benefits will be able to go to work and retain Medicaid without a spend down. Unearned income limits are currently used by other states in their Medicaid Buy-In programs. For example, the state of Maine’s Medicaid Buy-In program also uses their poverty-level Medicaid program as the basis for their program.
The bill calls for the program to begin by January 1, 2004. Persons must be between the ages of 16 and 64 to qualify for the program. Premiums will be charged to persons whose earnings exceed approximately $22,000 annually. Individuals may accumulate personal assets of up to $75,000 and may set up retirement accounts. Medicaid eligibility can continue for up to 24 months during breaks in employment caused by layoffs or medical necessity.

Story 2 - Dale Wood
Dale Wood had a car accident that left him paralyzed. He was a farmer before his accident and he was determined to continue farming. He found some help through a program called AgrAbility. The AgrAbility Program is a shining example of a consumer-driven USDA-funded program that provides vital education, assistance, and support to farmers and ranchers with disabilities. Through the combined dedication and expertise of the Cooperative Extension System and nonprofit disability organizations, AgrAbility helps thousands of determined individuals overcome the barriers to continuing their chosen professions in agriculture. AgrAbility received its first Federal funding in 1991 and was implemented as recommended in the 1990 Farm Bill. Each year, competitive projects have been awarded to Cooperative Extension Services, based at land-grant universities, that have joined with nonprofit disability organizations to educate and assist agricultural workers with disabilities and their families. In addition to the state project grants, one national grant provides additional support for a National AgrAbility Project involving the University of Wisconsin - Madison and the National Easter Seal Society. These national partners combined to provide technical assistance and professional training for the state projects, and to produce resource materials and conduct information dissemination activities related to the project. The activities of the AgrAbility Program demonstrate the ability of Extension to respond to local needs and make a difference through collaborative partnerships. Perhaps most importantly, they illustrate how much we can collectively benefit by providing opportunities, expanding boundaries, and making it possible for people to hope. For more information visit www.reeusda.gov/agsys/agsyspp/agrabil/agrabil.htm.

Story 3 - C.C. Plus Dance
C.C. Plus Dance for Fitness is a special needs dance/exercise program for physically and developmentally disabled children and adults. We took a crew and filmed their annual dance recital. Wheelchairs and walkers were used and incorporated into the dance. It was a fun time and we were impressed by the good work of Dawn Malek and Kathy Hinchman. They are the owners of C.C. Plus Dance for Fitness and are helping to make a difference in the lives of others. C.C. Plus was awarded the 2002 Amateur Athletic Event of the Year Regional Award by the Michigan Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports for its My Chance to Dance program. According to Malek, C.C. Plus uses dance to promote memory and socialization, as well as lowering blood pressure, stress and body fat. For more information on dates, times and pricing, contact Kathy Hinchman at (586) 412-8454 or Dawn Malek at (586) 792-5897.

Show 703
Re-Aired February 25 - March 3 2007
Originally Aired November 26 - December 3 2006
Story 1 - ROPARD
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is a disease of the retina, the light sensitive membrane covering the inside of the eye. It affects small prematurely born babies. It consists of abnormal retinal vessels that grow mostly in an area where normal vessels have not yet grown in the retina. ROP is divided into stages 1 to 5. Stages 1 and 2 do not usually require treatment. Some babies who have developed stage 3 ROP require treatment. The treatment is usually performed either by laser or cryotherapy (freezing). Laser is more commonly used now than cryotherapy because of various advances in the laser treatment. The ROP in stage 3 that requires treatment is generally called threshold disease. The majority (95%) of the babies who require laser or cryotherapy develop threshold disease between 32 and 42 weeks after conception. The post-conceptional age is calculated from the presumed day of conception. Timing is one of the important factors that make the treatment successful in ROP, because the disease can advance very quickly and delay in treatment often reduces the chances of success. The rapidly progressing ROP is called Rush disease, and it is usually associated with very extensive or aggressive growth of abnormal blood vessels. Abnormal dilatation of retinal veins with florid abnormal new vessels is called Plus disease.
We spent a day at The Children's Low Vision Resource Center in Royal Oak, Michigan to see all the center had to offer to parents of children with Retinopathy of Prematurity.
The Children's Low Vision Resource Center houses books and videos for parents. On display are appropriate toys, low vision aids and devices and educational equipment. The Resource Center will help parents to become the prime facilitators of development for their child by providing them access to the appropriate methods and materials for them to utilize to optimize the development of their child. Materials for Active Learning such as the Little Room and resonance board; vision stimulation materials, such as a Light Box and a lending library of books, appropriate toys and videos are available at the Children's Low Vision Resource Center. The Center's establishment is the outgrowth of the need to assist parents of children who are diagnosed as visually impaired or blind. For more information about the Children's Low Vision Resource Center in Royal Oak, Michigan and Retinopathy of Prematurity visit www.ropard.org or call (800) 788-2020 or (248) 549-2671.

Story 2 - Sarah Triano
Sarah Triano is a 28 year-old young woman with a non-apparent disability, and one of the leading youth activists in the country. She is a co-founding member of the National Disabled Students Union (NDSU) and the chairperson of NDSU's Committee on Outside System Action. Triano is currently the Youth/Education Team Leader at Access Living of Metropolitan Chicago where she directs the nation's first locally-based youth leadership/organizing for youth with disabilities. Triano was one of the original delegates to the first annual California Youth Leadership Forum for High School with Disabilities in 1992. She volunteered as a counselor at this Forum from 1993-1998, and was actively involved with the Office of Disability Employment Policy (formerly known as the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities) in the replication of this model youth leadership forum throughout the United States. In 1998, Triano participated in the National Council on Disability's Second Annual Youth Leadership Development Conference in Washington, DC. Following the conference, Triano contracted with the National Council on Disability to produce a report on the issues facing minority-group members with disabilities in the U.S. entitled, Lift Every Voice: Modernizing Disability Policies and Programs to Serve a Diverse Nation, which was released on July 26, 1999. Triano has received several national awards for her work in the area of disability rights and social justice, including an ELA Foundation Fellowship, an AAPD Justice for All Disability Rights Award, and in March 2003, Triano was honored as a Paul G. Hearne/AAPD Leadership Award recipient, an award that comes with a $10,000 cash prize. Disabilities Today had the opportunity to meet with Sarah while she was visiting Detroit, Michigan for a speaking engagement. For more information about Sarah Triano and disability awareness visit www.disabledandproud.com.

Story 3 - Celebrity Basketball
This charity event was originally started by Detroit Piston, Jerry Stackhouse. The event raises money for The Rehabilitation Institute of Michigan to provide rehabilitation patients the services they need. This year’s event was unique because it had all four sports teams from Detroit participating. The game pitted the Detroit Sports Legends (alumni from the Pistons, Lions, Red Wings, and Tigers) versus the Detroit Media Players. That team was comprised of favorite TV and radio personalities. The game was very exciting and the money raised went for a great cause. To learn more about The Rehab Institute of Michigan visit www.rimrehab.org.

Show 702
Re-Aired February 18 - February 25 2007
Originally Aired November 19 - November 26 2006
Story 1 - United Cerebral Palsy - Cleveland, Ohio
Disabilities Today spent a day visiting The United Cerebral Palsy of Cleveland, Ohio. UCP of Cleveland are helping people with cerebral palsy by offering different programs and technology to help these challenged individuals live more fulfilling lives. For more information visit www.ucpcleveland.org.
The mission of United Cerebral Palsy is to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. Cerebral palsy is a term used to describe a group of chronic conditions affecting body movement and muscle coordination. It is caused by damage to one or more specific areas of the brain, usually occurring during fetal development; before, during, or shortly after birth; or during infancy. Thus, these disorders are not caused by problems in the muscles or nerves. Instead, faulty development or damage to motor areas in the brain disrupt the brain's ability to adequately control movement and posture. "Cerebral" refers to the brain and "palsy" to muscle weakness/poor control. Cerebral palsy itself is not progressive (i.e. brain damage does not get worse); however, secondary conditions, such as muscle spasticity, can develop which may get better over time, get worse, or remain the same. Cerebral palsy is not communicable. It is not a disease and should not be referred to as such. Although cerebral palsy is not "curable" in the accepted sense, training and therapy can help improve function.

Story 2 - Unisys
Art Michalak is blind. Art works for Unisys in Plymouth, Michigan. Disabilities Today was able to spend a day with Art to see how he overcomes his disability at work and the steps that Unisys has taken to help him. For more information visit www.unisys.com.

Story 3 - Broe Choir - Lansing, Michigan
The Broe Choir is a group of brain injured persons that sing to show people that brain injury is a disability that can be overcome and celebrated. October is Brain Injury Awareness Month and The Broe Choir was invited to sing at the State Capitol in Lansing, Michigan to mark this occasion.

Show 701
Re-Aired February 11 - February 18 2007
Originally Aired November 12 - November 19 2006
Story 1 - The Fast and the Furious
Dwayne Pingston is an auto enthusiast. He has been racing cars since he was a teenager. Disabilities Today caught up with him at a Figure 8 race. Dwayne is parayzed but he doesn't let that hold him back. We talked to him about what adaptions he had to make in order to race. He talked about how he had to show that he could get out of the car in an emergency and showed us how much fun racing is. If you are interested in learning more about Figure 8 racing we came across an interesting site that can help point you in the right direction www.figure8fury.com. So get out there and rev your engine!

Story 2 - Boystown Research Hospital
Each year, thousands of children with hearing loss and communication disabilities come to Omaha, Nebraska, from across the U. S. and around the world for treatment at Boys Town National Research Hospital. Countless others are touched by the hospital's advances in diagnosis and treatment, early intervention programs, and world-class research. At the hospital, leading physicians and clinicians collaborate to provide state-of-the-art diagnosis and treatment for children with hearing loss so they may communicate in the world around them. Disabitlites Today sent a crew out to Omaha to see this innovative center. To learn more visit www.boystownhospital.org and www.babyhearing.org.

Story 3 - Pheasant Ring
Pheasant Ring is an organization in Michigan that provides homes and respite care services for people living with autism. We spoke to the founders of Pheasant Ring and learned more about this unique community. To learn more contact Lisa Wilkins at (248) 236-9222.