Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts

Fundraising at Wal-mart!

2011-06-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

Hello again! So... this is not going to be the post promised but I have an event too special not to share with you ASAP! I "canned" outside of Wal-mart Quincy this week for two days. I know what you're thinking, "canning isn't an event." Well I don't necessarily disagree!I had seen other people canning, mostly high school kids for their sport teams and I just felt kind of silly just sitting there all day with a can asking for donations. I knew it would bring in a lot though so I couldn't pass it up without giving it a try!

So I MADE it an event. I grabbed a TV tray table, tapped a poster with our logo to it. dressed an empty coffee can with some blue construction paper and our logo also, laid out brochures and a picture of myself in my crown and sash ( I know I was already there and dressed like that but people ate up the professional shot of me!) and set up outside the exit door. I never once asked for someone to donate. I just sat and waved. That seemed to get people to stop....and give!

My first day I arrived about 11AM and stayed until about 5PM. I thought for sure that by 2ish I would be so bored! Not true! I had so many people stopping to donate and ask questions the day just flew!By the time my ride got there at 3 I wanted to stay longer due to my success!!Luckily he was willing to stay with me!

My second day started at about 9:30AM. I knew I was in for a long day but I was motivated! If I needed a break I had the Subway (sandwich shop) to stop in if needed.This time I stayed until 7:30PM.

Among all the people I met was two former Ms Massachusetts USA contestants. It was exciting to talk to them. They are beautiful but there was more to them than that!They were both very nice, smart and very hard workers!It was interesting to discover that they are also judged on simply their looks. Not by the judges I mean but by the rest of us!!And to boot not a whole lot of us have sat down and watched a competition!

All kinds of people donated!A few Wal-mart associates also!My favorite donors were the mothers. Each child would get a dollar to put in my can. You could see the twinkle in the little girl's eyes when they looked at my crown! There was one girl that really stole the show for me though! I am broken hearted that I don't remember her name. She had down syndrome her mother had explained to me. The little girl had asked just that week "what was a wheelchair?"!I was more than happy to be a part of such a lesson! I hope down the road they will remember me because I will never forget them!

Once in awhile things got slow for me but that was ok. I had Wal-mart associates spending their breaks hanging out with me. That meant the most to me! I didn't expect such an interest!!!The crown and sash seemed to open up people that must have had questions for awhile!I am glad I got the chance to talk to them!

Well that's it for now!Lots to do in the coming weeks!!!Nationals is coming faster than I could have ever imagined!!!!Stayed tuned!

Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts 2011!!!!

2011-06-04T20:30:00.000-07:00

So, it's been about two months now since the Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts 2011 Pageant. It has been a crazy two months but I now get to tell you about one of the most important days of my life this far!!!

Pageant prep started first thing in the morning with Mom and Pam (my PCA). Mom got there first and we started right away with hair and make-up. I knew mom would do my hair perfectly and I am still learning about make-up so she was a big help!I have to say, getting all done up with mom is my favorite part of the day even still!

Pam arrives and outfit selection is finalized. Now we are on our way to the Pageant with just a quick pit-stop at DnD's for coffee.

The event then kicked off with check-in and set up. This wasn't hard for me seeing as I know alot of the behind the scenes stuff from being involved previous years in one way or another.

I quickly found my table and set up my display. I felt kind of bad setting it up and leaving it to mingle but that feeling didn't last long. Conversation I was having with the crowd quickly turned from "tell my more about you" to "whose that girl over there showing off your board" I was relieved and so proud!!

I had invited my mentee from PYD's Mentor Match Program. I figured she would love it but I would have never guessed she would have so ready to promote me!!!I was loving it to say the least!Mingling also gave me a chance to meet some of the wonderful vendors we had that I didn't already know. We had many great vendors this year!

Things were not all fun and games though!There were private interviews for each contestant with a panel of three judges. Personally this scared me the most. Don't ask me why, smaller crowds just always did. Too intimate I guess! I was in luck though, we also had an interview session infront of everyone in attendance that day. Both sessions were nerve-wrecking because you never know what the judges will come up with so you can only be so prepared!

Then lastly (this was before being crowned of course!) and the most important part! The platform speeches! Even without a win I have been waiting for these two minutes for my entire 30 years of life!In these two minutes I get to tell my audience who I am (as a person NOT a wheelchair), about the things I have done and most importantly of course what I hope to do as Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts 2011.Giving that speech was a dream come true!

Now the moment has come!They are about to call the runner-up! It had been just me and one other contestant for the whole pageant so I know this will be quick. My mind was racing with a million things all at once!There could have been ten different girls up there with meand I wouldn't have been half as nervous as I was competing along side this one girl! We had met a few years ago when I first became involved with Ms W/C Mass. She is smart, passionate and has done so much that would qualify her for this and she had run before!As involved as i have been in the past this was my first time running.

So you can imagine my shock when they call her as the runner-up! After that things seemed to be in slow motion. They called my name then and there was a sudden rush of commotion all around me. The sash is pinned on me, the crown is placed on my head and flowers are laid in my arms. Hugs and kisses are coming from everywhere. I see the flashes of a camera I never knew was there all day come from somewhere behind the crowd

Lastly I gave my thank you speech. This is not something I wanted to overly prepare for fear it would jinx me.On the spot I feel is more heart felt anyways.

I rode home with Pam who had gone through the entire day and all the prep with me. We drove into my neighborhood and I noticed everyone looking at me. After 30 years as a disabled person I am used to people looking at me but this was different. People normally looked away when I caught them staring. Some even pointed!I just hope they went home and googled it!

In closing I would just like to thank everyone that was and is a support to me. Everyone that listened to my speech a million times. Everyone that were part of a memory that built my board. Everyone that was there in person or spirit. I thank all of you so much!!!

Well that is all I have for now. I hope you stay tuned!I have alot to fill you in on about the past two months and just when you think we are all caught up, I will have new things to share!

All Good Things Eventually Must Come to an End

2011-04-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

During my final month as Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010, I participated in two events in Boston. The first event I participated in is called the BLIN’G Camp (Better Living in Girls) on March 4th, 2011 from 6-9pm, which was an event put together by the Spina Bifida Association of Massachusetts (SBAMass) and the Myelodysplasia Clinic at Children’s Hospital Boston (the Spina Bifida Clinic). This was an overnight girls camp where ten girls (Ages 11-17 years old) along with one parent had the opportunity to participate in the BLIN’G Program, which consisted of an overnight stay at a hotel in Boston (the Omni Parker House on School Street near the State House), so they could learn about healthy living with Spina Bifida.

Among the guests for the program were a nutritionist, a reiki massage therapist, and a hair stylist and make-up artist who came to give the girls makeovers. The evening started with the nutritionist speaking about healthy eating and what we should/should not be eating to be healthy, which of course is always challenging to get all the nutrients we need in order to be healthy but it helps to have someone willing to advise us on it. Then, for our icebreaker activity to get to know people we got to play human BLIN’GO (BINGO), where the coordinators of the event put together BINGO cards based on a list of 10 things about ourselves that we all had previously submitted. Our task was to of course get BINGO, by figuring out who had which clues by going around and talking to each other. Prizes were awarded to the first three people who got BINGO, but everyone got some kind of token for their participation in the game, which was nice. Also, being Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010 I had the opportunity to speak to the girls and the mothers for about 10-15 minutes or so about college, Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts/America, life with Spina Bifida/disability, achieving your goals etc. I really loved this event even though it was short because I really felt like I was able to make a difference and not only be an advocate for them but in this case I was also acting as a role/ “roll” model as well. I have been looking forward to this event for a while because I remember the challenges associated with that age range for myself, living with a disability but I really think that is a challenging transitional time for people in general. That is why I thought this was such a great idea. Everyone was truly appreciative of the time I had spent with the girls. Some of them even asked me for the website information which I gave out while explaining some of the things that are on there. I also mentioned to everyone the upcoming Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts Competition so I hope that some of them will be able to come and check it out! I just wish I could have spent the entire weekend enjoying the fun with them, but I had to take an MTEL exam in Somerville the next day. Maybe I will have more time to help out next year.

The other event I went to was the “Stepping Forward-Staying Informed Evening Lecture Series for individuals living with spinal cord injury, their caregivers & healthcare professionals”. This event took place at Boston Medical Center, BU School of Medicine and lasted from 4:30-8:00pm on March 14th 2011, and Judi Zazula was the coordinator of the event, whom I had met at a previous event back in October, during Spinal Cord Injury Awareness month. Patrick M. Tigue, Community Catalyst was the presenter and the topic of the lecture was “The Affordable Care Act and People with Disabilities: Policy and Politics”. Immediately preceding each lecture that they have is a support group meeting where people who have spinal cord injuries gather and get to know one another, which is great for networking and making friends. It’s always great to have people in your life who truly understand the challenges you must face on a daily basis and who are willing to talk to you about questions or concerns.

This was such an important topic to learn about because we all need accessible and affordable healthcare. Too many people today are struggling without proper health insurance or healthcare needs. As a person with a disability, I know how much this affects us because our needs are just so complex and it is scary to think what some of us would do without insurance and good medical treatment. There is just so much to consider including surgery, follow-up appointments, going to different specialists, hospitalizations, equipment and so much more. For that reason this was a really informative lecture which I enjoyed very much.

So ends my time as Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010. This was truly a very enjoyable experience where I got to learn so much and help so many different people by participating in a variety of events each month. I will be looking to pass on the title at the 2011 Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts Advocacy Competition where the next titleholder will be crowned and given a chance to advocate on behalf of those in Massachusetts living with a disability. Although I will be passing on the title of Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts, this does not mean that my work as an advocate comes to an end now. There is still so much to do before people who have disabilities and people who do not have disabilities are seen as the same, and a group as a whole. By working together to support each other and spreading the word about the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation and our mission, one day we will be able to come together as a whole and people with disabilities will not be singled out due to their differences. One day at a time we will prove that the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts program is not about exterior beauty, “celebrities” or royalty (crown/sash) but about helping people with disabilities live better lives and advocacy. As a final thought I wanted to remind everyone that with resources, support and encouragement that “Yes We ALL Can!” live our lives just as successfully as our peers who do not have disabilities. It’s all in the attitude, so let’s all stay positive!

Thank you for letting me be a part of such a wonderful program. I truly enjoyed every minute of it and know that this will open up the doors to new and exciting opportunities in the future. I want to wish the contestants in the upcoming pageant the best of luck and hope that I can continue to help out this wonderful organization in any way I can. YAY MWMA 2010!

2011-02-23T11:03:00.000-08:00

5K for the MDA!!
This month I participated in the MDA Muscle Walk 2011 to help the Muscular Dystrophy Association raise funds and awareness about Muscular Dystrophy as well as other disabilities. In order to participate, I fundraised $100 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. This event was held at the Natick Collection in Natick, MA. Upon arrival we met the event coordinators, got our t-shirts and were asked to sign waivers in order to participate in the Walk. Then we got to mingle and see everything, have snacks and also got the opportunity to enter the raffle which had many different prizes including gift cards to UNO’s, Margarita’s and the Natick Mall.
The Walk itself, which was a 5K (a longer distance than I had previously imagined, especially since I was in my manual wheelchair…) was held indoors (thank goodness! :) ). Before it was time to start the Walk there was a yoga instructor who came to demonstrate a brief exercise in breathing and stretching in order to prepare us for our trek around the mall. The emcee was really nice and the music was really fun and included songs like YMCA, Shout and the Chicken Dance. He took a few minutes to talk to me about my being Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts and the upcoming pageant which he mentioned during the day and asked if I would answer questions for people about the event, which of course I was happy to do!
The leader of our Walk was a local firefighter who was dressed up in a Scottish outfit and playing bagpipes. There were people of all ages at the walk including children, teens, young adults and older adults. So once we got the signal, off we went three times around the first floor of this big mall. After the Walk, we had the opportunity to get team photos taken, and then the top fundraisers were given awards. Finally, the raffle numbers were announced and the winners were given their prizes. Unfortunately, somehow I misplaced my tickets sometime in between getting them and the numbers being announced, so I didn’t win any of the prizes I signed up for which were mostly the restaurant offers. At the end of the morning, I took the opportunity to relax and chat with friends and other people who were also at the event. There were many photos taken of the participants during the Walk and I was given one of them to keep too.
So ends another month as Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010. Overall, this was another good event where I got to make a difference and help others through my efforts. With each walk I have participated in, there has also been the responsibility of fundraising at least $100 and each time I try to learn something that I didn’t know the last time about fundraising tips, what works and what does not work. One thing has been the same about all of these events though—fundraising takes a lot of patience and energy! I am happy to have been able to participate though and meet new people along the way. Finally, I was thankful for the opportunity to tell more people about the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation and the upcoming pageant.

2010-12-15T08:03:00.000-08:00

This month I attended the Massachusetts Conference for Women at the Boston Conference and Exhibition Center which brought together a total of 6,500 participants from our state to come together and learn more about empowerment, wellness, and to provide us with the inspiration, guidance, courage and direction that we all need to be successful business and career women in today’s constantly changing world. There were two keynote sessions, the opening session as well as a keynote luncheon in the middle of the day, which included a variety of inspirational speakers all through video streaming and internet services including Mrs. Angela Menino, Glenda Hatchett (aka Judge Hatchett on television!), and first lady Diane Patrick as well. All of these women were so inspiring and shared very powerful messages about how they started their careers, where they were coming from and where they are today. There was also a man named Michael A. Guglielmo who was the founder of Save Giovanni’s Friends, which is a non-profit organization that stress the importance and significance of organ and cord blood donation because of his wonderful story about how cord blood saved his son’s life.

What was a little different this year was that there was an award presented called the “Be the Change Award” presented by Candy O’Terry from Magic 106.7’s Exceptional Women program. “The Be The Change Award, created in conjunction with our generous award sponsor, Canyon Ranch, has recognized a Massachusetts woman who personifies compassion for her community and commitment to improving the everyday lives of those around her.” This year’s recipient was Johanna Crawford who created Web of Benefit which is an organization that helps women who have been victims of domestic violence get out of those situations and find housing and jobs and other resources to help them become independent people living in the community.

There were also three seminar sessions where we got to choose different seminars to attend, each having a panel of speakers and a moderator. Each seminar session presented lectures in the following categories: leadership, personal development, professional development, finance, health and wellness, and finally small business/entrepreneurship.

The first session that I went to was the health and wellness one entitled “The CEO of Your Health: Are You Ready to Lead the Charge?” which talked about tips if you are a caregiver and taking a family member to doctor’s appointments but also gave tips to help yourself make your own doctor’s appointments more effective with the little time you have during your visit. They talked about what questions you might want to ask and why it is important to ask questions, and of course working with your doctor to optimize your own health and wellness to live a long and healthy life. Finally, they were asked questions both from the audience as well as from the moderator as a panel and individually about pressing healthcare issues of today ranging from dealing with insurance to their opinion about our current healthcare system and the changes being made to serve our population, and also about where to obtain the resources you need to make informed choices about your health and your healthcare providers. Personally, I found this session to be a really informative and well-done presentation and I learned more about my own healthcare situation and things that I can be doing better or differently with regards to my own healthcare than I have been so for that reason, I am glad to have chosen to attend this one.

The second session that I went to was the personal development one and it was entitled “Making a Difference: Finding Your Unique Way to Give Back” which was all about finding a cause to stand up for that you are passionate about and the practical skills you need to build your passion and your dreams and to turn them into a reality, to be able to earn a living and make a difference at the same time. For me, this was another practical session because of how many organizations I’ve already been involved with giving my time and pursuing my many passions including working with children with and without disabilities, promoting disability advocacy and helping people with disabilities find their callings and helping them and their families live happy and successful lives. It also once again confirmed what I already know which is that I think my “unique way of giving back” is choosing teaching as a profession, as well as being a counselor, mentor, leader etc. All of my roles have helped shaped my ultimate career goal, which is to become a teacher in the public schools system, and that is what I am still working on…one day at a time!

The last session that I had chosen to attend was for personal development and it was called “Practical Tools to Live an Organized Life and Control Your Chaos”. It talked about how to balance things in everyday life including home, kids and work as well as to plan for unforeseen circumstances and major events like weddings, moves and birth. In college during my years as an undergraduate student I found myself making up for lost time not being involved in as many things as I wanted to be in high school, so I often found myself over-extended and over-tired from over-piling my plate and still continue to live the same way most of the time. This last session was great because it was all about prioritizing and finding that balance between the things you want to do and the things you need to do. They recommended just choosing a few things or even just one thing and being able to give 100% of your time to that instead of just giving some of your time and energy to multiple organizations because then you’ll never really be happy with what you are doing because what you’re doing isn’t really your best. This was a really valuable lesson for me and also probably one of those lessons I’ll be learning over and over because I am the type of person who wants to give to everyone and give it all, even when I can’t.

In the exhibit hall there were so many different tables for exhibitors which again provided another opportunity for networking and getting to know people. There was information about colleges, healthcare facilities, medical equipment companies and more. We also had the opportunity for book signing by many of the keynote speakers of the day for their most recent books as well as a career fair which included resume critiquing which I also wanted to participate in as well as a mentor match session, working with someone to help you get started on achieving your goals in life. I did get to see some familiar faces from the Spina Bifida Association of Massachusetts and from Compass Healthcare which was really nice too.

This was another wonderful opportunity to meet some great people and also once again reflect on the challenges of being a woman with a disability in today’s world. However, as the theme of this year’s conference states: “Your Time is Now!”—to be fearlessly resilient, to rebound with purpose and power, to lead with intention and to discover what you want and go get it! This conference teaches you how and inspires you to do just that and it was a wonderful opportunity to be one of the 6,500 participants that attended the conference. I hope that I can attend this event again next year and gain even more from it all.

Spina Bifida and Disability Awareness Month for Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010

2010-11-02T12:34:00.000-07:00

For the month of October, I participated in two events. The first one was an appearance at my old elementary school, the F.A. Cleveland Elementary School in Norwood, MA on October 22nd, where I got to speak with the entire second grade about my life and the advocacy work I do for Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts and other organizations. During the summer I contacted the current principal of my elementary school briefly explaining about being Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010 and how one of my goals was to mentor children with and without disabilities to pursue their dreams no matter what obstacles they may face and also to teach them that people with disabilities are exactly the same as people without disabilities. I had requested to speak to a first or second grade class because I am going to be going into Early Childhood Education and I will be certified from PK-2nd grade, and I think the younger the better. A few weeks later, I got in contact with one of the second grade teachers who had showed great interest in my request for an appearance and we communicated through e-mail and coordinated a date and time for me to come in, and I was very excited it all worked out. At the same time, I was nervous about going back to the school I haven’t set foot in since 1995. Overall, I was happy and grateful to finally be able to give back to a school that did so much for me.

My plan was very specific about what I wanted to do, but I did have to do a little re-organizing at the last minute because I hadn’t realized I would be talking to the entire second grade at the school. Originally I thought it was just one class, but this was even more exciting! I talked a little bit about my life and the physical and attitudinal challenges I face day to day and about how I advocate for other people with disabilities, through the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation. I also wanted to leave time to answer any questions that they might have for me. Finally I ended my visit by reading to them the Dr. Seuss book, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!!” which I think carries a really positive message about overcoming obstacles and having patience and perseverance to achieve all of your goals in life.

Overall, I just wanted them to learn a little bit about disability awareness, how to treat others who are different from them and for them to see for themselves that people with disabilities are exactly the same as people without disabilities. In the end, I feel great to have been able to teach children such an important lesson at a young age. It is so important to have good “roll”/role models in life.

One thing that really amazes me about children is how much more willing they can be to learn about people who are different from themselves than adults usually are and that they always come up with great questions to ask out of curiosity. Often times they seem to be more willing to give people who are different a chance than adults are, but of course they need to be taught to respect differences in others. If no one teaches them, then the same attitudinal barriers will remain about people with disabilities, not giving them equal rights. It all starts with children; if they learn at an early age to accept diversity and to treat everyone with respect regardless of their differences then they will continue that practice as adults and pass that quality on to future generations there by making a great impact on the world around them. As a future educator, mentor and role model to my prospective students I definitely plan on teaching my students about this very important topic and help them make good decisions about others. I enjoyed the short time I got to spend at my old elementary school making a difference.

The second event that I participated in was the Boston Spinal Cord Injury Conference (Stepping Forward- Staying Informed 2010 Consumer Research Conference) which was held at the Boston Convention Center on October 23rd from 9-5pm. With October being Spina Bifida Awareness Month and being born with Spina Bifida, it was very important for me to attend this conference to promote awareness of all those who have some sort of spinal cord injury. This was another event that I got to participate in along with some of the other women involved with Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts which was really fun being able to advocate together for people with disabilities. The woman who was organizing this event was Judi Zazula, who was our main contact person for the day. Upon arrival to check in I saw that my cousin who works with kids with disabilities too was helping out with sign-in and registration which was a nice surprise, and a good opportunity to catch up with her too. The topics presented ranged from life with a spinal cord injury to medical conditions associated with it, and health promotion for people with spinal cord injuries. The speakers were all nice people who were very knowledgeable and overall it was an informative meeting with a lot to learn about the progress with spinal cord injury research.

There was also an excellent opportunity for networking as well because there were many different exhibitors who had tables, just like the vendors at our Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts pageant. They ranged from wheelchair companies to independent living centers to fitness facilities, all the way to adaptive sports including sailing and hand cycling. I got to learn about ILC meetings in my area and also got some contacts for the fitness facilities as well. We had a table for the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation with information about the pageant and although we didn’t seem to recruit many more contestants (there were a few interests here and there), we seemed to have a couple of vendors interested in our program which was great.

So ends another great month as Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts. I hope to continue to meet more wonderful people and make more connections and friendships with this great opportunity. Stay tuned for updates during the upcoming months as I continue my adventures with advocacy and meeting new people during my reign as Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010!

Ms.Wheelchair America 2011…A glimpse of my adventure in Michigan

2010-08-18T15:14:00.000-07:00

So this was finally it—the month that I competed in the Ms.Wheelchair America 2011 pageant representing the state of Massachusetts. It was not only my first time competing but also my first airplane adventure in my electric wheelchair, so I was very interested in how that whole process works. My family and I arrived at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel on Monday evening just shortly before dinner was about to be served. This was the time that all the contestants and state coordinators introduced themselves and as orientation began we also got our red binders which were named our “bible” for the week, as they were very important in telling us where and when we had to be at different places throughout the week. This was also the time when the expectations for us were set for the week as far as how we should present ourselves as representatives of our home states and contestants. Little did I know, this was the beginning of the ride of a lifetime, as I met 27 of the most amazing people ever who were all so positive, radiant, and friendly. We all became very close very quickly.
The next day we got up bright and early (as we did every morning) to begin our Fun Day, which consisted of visiting the Gerald Ford Presidential Museum and afterwards breaking up into teams with the coordinators acting as our team leaders to go on a scavenger hunt of different things that we could find in the city…with a little help from the locals. Later that evening our team was given the “Most Determined” award for completing everything on the list, including all the bonus items! This announcement was made later that evening when we all went out to dinner at Mojo’s for a night of good food and fun entertainment. I even got to sing karaoke a little bit, along with a few of the state coordinators who were also called up to sing as well. It was fun to loosen up and be a little silly. The term “Fun Day” definitely suited the day!
Throughout the week we attended many different workshops when we were not in our judging sessions (interviews). The topics ranged from hearing inspirational stories of other men and women with wheels to learning some self-defense and learning more about the ADA and what things are acceptable and which are not when it comes to disability issues. These workshops were all very interesting, but I do wish that they could have incorporated more interactive material, as far as things to do with the other contestants in groups as another chance to get to know all the ladies that you are competing with throughout the week.
The interviews were Wednesday, Thursday and Friday ranging from five to fifteen minutes long and were in somewhat of a random order depending on the day. The judges were all nice people.
On Wednesday and Thursday night we had theme nights which were “At the Movies”, which meant dressing up as our favorite actor/actress or movie character and “Cruisin’ to Motown” which meant thinking of famous Motown singers and dressing like them. I (and about four other people-haha) thought alike and all dressed up in Dream Girls costumes. With mine I even got the make-up accessories and a toy microphone. There was also a Temptation Review band that came to sing for us that night which was really awesome. Due to my love and slight obsession over the Harry Potter series, I decided to dress up as Hermione Granger for movie night. They gave us a murder mystery to work together with people at our table on to try to solve where we had to go to the other tables and gather clues to help us solve it. It was both fun and challenging, but more importantly it got us working together to solve it.
Friday and Saturday night consisted of the main events of the week, the platform speeches and the crowning ceremony. My platform is “Discrimination and Stigma Associated with Disability” and I talked about some of the different references I have heard about people with disabilities and why it is wrong to assume things with us…or anyone else for that matter. This is one thing I am very passionate about is breaking down the misleading ideas and allowing people to see that we really are just like everyone else in every way and that “Yes We ALL Can!!”. Even though I was really nervous I did get the majority of my ideas and the main idea across, which was a really big accomplishment for me. Everyone was really supportive and understanding so I tried really hard not to be too hard on myself, even though it was difficult.
Finally on Saturday night was the crowning ceremony. To be really honest I was still feeling a bit down, but in the end with the support of my new amazing friends, as well as the old ones, I was able to pull myself together and adopt a positive attitude. By the time the crowning ceremony rolled around (no pun intended hehe), I decided to think of it this way: “If nothing else, I have made 27 wonderful friends in a week. Not many people can say this.” and I truly meant it-I was really grateful for the opportunity to meet everyone and share the experience. I am looking forward to staying in touch with them all and hopefully we will all meet again soon.
At the end 0f the night after dinner, I made my rounds to all the tables to say goodbye to everyone, as my family and I had to leave early in the morning before breakfast to make it to our return flight home. This was really bittersweet. I was happy it was all over and was ready to return to my normal life back home, but at the same time I was really sad to let go of all the awesome people I met throughout the week. It was time to return to The Bay State.
I will still be representing Massachusetts as the current titleholder for a few more months and as they say “Life Rolls On”. Of course I will continue to update my blog with all of my adventures as Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010. Again thank you so much to everyone who was a part of making Ms.Wheelchair America such a huge success and congratulations to Alexandra McArthur, Ms.Wheelchair North Carolina 2010 and the newly crowned Ms.Wheelchair America 2011! You will do our country proud for sure!!!

ADA Day at Boston Common

2010-08-03T11:25:00.000-07:00

This month I attended another great event, the 20th Anniversary Celebration of the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Act of 1990, which was held on Boston Common on July 26, 2010 from 12-3pm. This event was sponsored by many different disability advocacy groups including Disability Policy Consortium (DPC), the Spina Bifida Association of Massachusetts (SBAMass), Boston Center for Independent Living and of course the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation. This was an important day in disability civil rights history because the passing of this important piece of legislation was the beginning of more civil rights for all people with disabilities, thus more opportunities for us in the community, with school and employment. It was the beginning of access to an otherwise inaccessible world.

The Hosts for this event include the Boston Center for Independent Living, the City of Boston, and Disability Policy Consortium, the Institute for Human Centered Design and the New England ADA Center, and the Statewide Independent Living Council. Live entertainment included comedian Jonathan Katz, the Matt Savage Trio, the Tommy Filiault Band, and speaker John Hockenberry. There was a short march that left Boston Common heading down Tremont Street to kick off the day that left from the corner of Tremont and Boylston at 11:15am that day. To get there I took the commuter rail to South Station and then took the Red Line down to Park Street, which was a bit confusing even though I have been there lots of times already, but I got there eventually.

There were many board members from the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation present that day and we had a table to showcase the Foundation and what it is all about. Of course as Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010, I was there ready to enjoy the day and the events. I even got to sign pictures at the table and take pictures, which was really exciting! I had gotten a chance to catch up with a former professor of mine from Bridgewater State University who works for the ADA New England. I had taken a class with her on Disability Issues and that was when I got the chance to do a video about life with a disability and how I negotiated accommodations and an independent life as a college student, as an example to other people with disabilities who might be wondering how it’s all done and looking for advice or support.

It was great to see so many people with disabilities and supporters of people with disabilities at this great event that day. The main idea or “slogan” of my platform is: “Yes We ALL Can!!” meaning that people with and without disabilities can participate in the same activities and be just as successful and happy. It is at events such as this where we really get to show everyone just how true this really is. It really was a great day with great people, including others from the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation and a day to remember for sure.
So this ends another month for Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010. I am excited because Nationals is only about a week or so away and my family will be there to cheer me on. I am really looking forward to meeting everyone, making some new friends and having a lot of fun! Also, looking forward to exploring a new state and my first official plane trip with my electric wheelchair. The countdown is down to seven days!! Michigan-here we come!

Walkin’ the Walk, Rollin’ the Roll, and Talkin’ the Talk!

2010-06-14T06:47:00.000-07:00

So this month I continued my walk/roll spirit and signed up to participate in the NStar Walk for Children’s Hospital which took place at the DCR Hatch Shell in Boston. It was a little difficult to find a partner because this is the time when so many other walks are happening and many people had signed up for other walks, which was great as well—so I decided to do the walk and represent Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts myself and show my support to Children’s Hospital. It was nice though that my dad decided to join me in time for the actual walk.
There were two in-person distance options- 2 miles or 7 miles and a virtual option for anyone who could not be at the actual event. So I decided to do the 2-mile option, mainly because I wasn’t sure my chair would support a 7 mile walk. So our start time was 12pm from the Hatch Shell, as opposed to the 7-mile walkers who started at 11am. For the event, it was required to fundraise a minimum of $150.00 to participate, which I ended up making it. I decided to spread the word on Facebook on my page as well as the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts page, and Ms.Wheelchair America 2011 page to get the word out quickly. And quickly the word spread, as I made $55 in less than 24 hours time since I posted the link to my page! The money started rollin’ in! It was quite a bit of money and I wanted to see how much I could raise before I asked my dad for any money. He was very supportive of the cause because they really have done a lot for me and my family over the years, and we are grateful for all of it!
On the day of the Walk, I decided to go to the Cambridge Galleria which was the closest location with an address that the Ride would drop off, so it made sense to meet there and take their shuttle bus, which was free. The weather report for that day was not the best for a walk, as it was supposed to thunderstorm, but it was a rain or shine deal with the NStar Walk…so I was there to support my Hospital and participate! As it was, the rain held off. We were asked to be there 30-45 minutes early to register, get our shirts and bibs and enjoy the pre-walk activities. Everyone there was really nice and it was great to see so many people out there supporting Children’s Hospital Boston! I even got to see a former doctor of mine who took care of me when I was inpatient a few years back. Overall it was a very enjoyable day and I’m glad I got to be a part of it and help them help the thousands of children who come to the hospital every year.
I came across a man who was taking pictures for the Boston Herald, so I may end up making a debut in the paper! Also, I found it cool that I was not the only person with a crown and sash, as there was a whole team full of ladies with crowns and sashes. Also another person with a crown wanted to take her picture with me which was really sweet. I also got some good pictures at different landmarks on the route. The entertainment was awesome as there was a band and a couple of doctors who dressed up as clowns and some characters who posed with the kids who were there. It was of course great to see so many other kids in wheelchairs there for it.
The journey home was a little on the adventurous side as we had decided to venture off to a nearby Au Bon Pain…and ventured away from the shuttle buses that brought us to the Hatch Shell. So we had no way back to Cambridge where the Ride was going to pick me up. Luckily we were near the Red Line MGH Station and so we were able to take the train home, and my dad ventured back for the car…oops! Oh well…all’s well that ends well? 
It was important for me to be able to do this walk. I’ve grown up going to that Hospital and they have done so much for me and still continue to do so, as well as for thousands of other children each and every day, year after year. This was my way of finally being able to give back to all of the amazing people at a wonderful healthcare facility, as well as meet other families who also look up to Children’s Hospital Boston and their staff. I know I would not be doing as well as I am today had it not been for the doctors, nurses and everyone I’ve met at Children’s Hospital Boston. I was very proud to wear my MWMA 2010 crown and sash and come out and support everyone who was involved with this amazing event.
So this ends another wonderful month of Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010 events. Next month I am looking forward to another big event, the 20th Anniversary of the ADA Celebration which will be held on Boston Common on July 26th, 2010 from 12-3pm. Can’t wait! Hope to see everyone there! (55 days until Nationals! Who’s excited?! Who’s ready? )

Run in the Falmouth Road Race to Support Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation

2010-05-31T08:50:00.000-07:00

You Can Help To Support the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation by Running in the Falmouth Road Race

 Sunday, August 15, 2010
 Race begins at 10 a.m.
 Course is 7 miles in distance
 Begins in Woods Hole, Cape Cod
 Runs along the coast to Falmouth
 Runners receive free t-shirt

You can run in this lottery-entry only race
to raise money for Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts!
Runners Needed

Each runner must commit to raising $400 for our non-profit program.

Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts is a 501 c3 non-profit organization
The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Program gives women with physical disabilities
a forum to promote the achievements as well as the needs of mobility impaired persons.

Unlike traditional pageants, the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Program is in no way a beauty contest. It is instead a competition to select the most accomplished and articulate spokesperson for women with disabilities in Massachusetts.

Requests to run MUST BE RECEIVED BY JULY 2, 2010

For more information or to apply, contact Autumn Grant at 774-501-1185 or email: mswheelchairmass06@yahoo.com. Please stop by our website at www.mswheelchairmass.org for more information on our organization.

I Wanna Walk n Roll All Day!

2010-05-27T07:41:00.000-07:00

This month I got to attend one of the biggest events of my reign- the Spina Bifida Association of Massachusetts’s 1st Annual Walk n Roll on May 23, 2010, which was held at Endicott Estates in Dedham which is a really beautiful property. The weather was somewhat gloomy in the morning but in the afternoon the sun came out and it was gorgeous! It served as a great fundraising and awareness event.
Although the kick-off party in March was a small gathering, there were definitely many more people at the actual event. Ellen Heffernan-Dugan was in charge of organizing it, among many others in the Association as well and they all did such a great job. There were over 100 walkers/rollers spread out over 15+ teams, which was really great to see, not to mention that we fundraised over $28,000 through this amazing event which will no doubt be put to good use for future programs and services for people living with Spina Bifida in Massachusetts.
There was a DJ and the kids got to play games like limbo and musical chairs which was fun for them. I didn’t end up making a team after all, but instead I just went to cheer everyone on and meet the families and others with Spina Bifida. I did get to address the crowd at the beginning along with the Association’s President Cara Packard and Ellen Heffernan-Dugan who is the Executive Director of the SBA Mass, telling my life story and getting everyone fired up to have a great walk which was incredible!
While thinking about what I was going to say, I got to reflect on all my accomplishments and challenges over the years that I don’t think about on a daily basis which was really cool because I realized I have accomplished more than I feel like I have most days. I also wrote a story about my life and Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts in their press release, and was told that I would be appearing in the Dedham News Transcript the next day, which was really exciting again being able to share my story. Also I got to get my picture taken with some of the teams and families and meet them. They were all impressed by my speech and my story and how far I have come.
I’m really happy to be so involved with the SBAMass, not only because I have Spina Bifida but because of the difference that I’m making for people with SB, and expanding my leadership skills while meeting some really great people in the process. I realize now that I’m not as alone as I think I am most days and that there are people out there who understand what life with a disability is really like.
Being Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010 has really given me the opportunity to get involved with and help out so many different people; I’m really enjoying every minute of it and really looking forward to meeting everyone at Nationals! :) (74 days left!)

Santara

2010-05-03T17:17:00.001-07:00

April Update

2010-05-03T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, Santara here with another update. April was a pretty laid back month. I did participate in one event along with Autumn called LAUNCH which was held at Bristol Community College in Attleboro, MA. At this event, we had a table to showcase Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation with the pamphlets and business cards etc. There were also different workshops to attend all about promoting STEM Literacy and incorporating it into other fields like Early Childhood Education for example. I got to attend two different workshops to learn more about it. The first one was called “STEM Literacy & the Education Model”. It was run by a woman named Joan Ricci, who is the Director of The Literacy Center and also an Early Childhood educator. She talked about the effects of the STEM model between birth to age 5, which was really important to me because I too want to be an Early Childhood teacher. At first she asked us all general questions like: Who has read to a child before? Who has bought a book as a gift for a child/mother? And then she spoke about how those early moments in a child’s life are so crucial to children’s success and the likelihood that they will pursue careers in mathematics or engineering because of our efforts.
The other workshop that I attended was called “Like Herding Fish-Managing the Startup Process” and this one was all about effective business management and leadership. The two people running the workshop talked about all the different tools a person needs to start your own business, the importance of finding the right people to help you succeed in your business, making tough decisions-like when you should hire or fire a person and not worrying so much about other people’s feelings and what others think, but instead doing what is right for your company.
Well, that’s pretty much it for this month. Next month I am looking forward to two great events: a forum for the candidates for Governor at Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown on May 18th and Spina Bifida Association’s First Annual Walk n Roll on May 23rd at Endicott Estates in Dedham. There is still time to sign up for the Walk n Roll if you want to sign up as a team or individual walker. It is going to be a great event both for fundraising and raising awareness of Spina Bifida and other disability issues. If you are interested in building a team or being an individual walker, please go to walknrollsbamass.org to sign up. Also if anyone wants to build a team with me feel free to let me know. If you cannot make it out to Dedham that day for the event but would still like to participate, there is an option to sign up as a virtual walker as well.
Thanks!
Santara

Forum with the Candidates for Governor

2010-04-12T10:08:00.000-07:00

Perkins School for the Blind and the Disability Policy Consortium, in Collaboration with many Disability Organizations invite YOU to Attend

Forum with the Candidates for Governor

May 18, 2010
12:30 – 3:30
Perkins School for the Blind
Dwight Hall, Howe Building
175 North Beacon Street, Watertown, MA 02472

Treasurer Tim Cahill
Governor Deval Patrick
Grace Ross
Jill Stein

Moderator: Bob Oakes of WBUR-FM’s “Morning Edition”

Join your colleagues and friends to hear the candidates for Governor discuss disability policy issues. Bring a friend!

For more information, please contact DPC at 617-542-3522 or info@dpcma.org. To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact DPC before May 12th.

President’s Volunteer Service Award

2010-03-19T14:46:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release
The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation Joins With the Council on Service and Civic Participation to Deliver President’s Volunteer Service Award
Prestigious Award Honors Outstanding Commitment to Volunteer Service

Raynham, MA – The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation today announced it has teamed with the White House to become a Certifying Organization for the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD, a national program recognizing Americans who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to volunteer service. Established in 2003, the AWARD was created by President George W. Bush to give Presidential recognition to individuals, families and groups who meet requirements for volunteer service, measured by the number of service hours performed over 12-months.

The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation is one of thousands of organizations that have joined forces to deliver the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD and honor the volunteers who strengthen our Nation. As a Certifying Organization for the AWARD, The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation is responsible for verifying service hours, nominating potential recipients and delivering the AWARD.

“The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation is extremely proud to recognize our most outstanding volunteers with the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD,” said Autumn Grant State Coordinator. “The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation volunteers are “roll” models in our community, donating their time, energy and talent to bring us closer together as neighbors and a Nation. The AWARD is our way of thanking these volunteers and inspiring everyone in our community to make volunteering a central part of their lives.”

The AWARD is issued by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation, a group convened by President George W. Bush to help foster and encourage a culture of volunteer service and civic participation among Americans. Chaired by two-time Super Bowl Champion Darrell Green, with former U.S. Senators Bob Dole and John Glenn as honorary co-chairs, the Council is composed of leaders in government, media, entertainment, business, education, nonprofit and volunteer service organizations and community volunteering.

For more information about volunteering with The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation, Contact Autumn Grant at mswheelchairmass06@yahoo.com or got to www.mswheelchairmass.org. For more information on the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD and to find out how to identify additional volunteer opportunities in this area, visit www.presidentialserviceawards.gov or call 1-866-545-5307.

###

Launch

2010-03-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010 Santara Sen will be participating in
LAUNCH – moving ideas to the next level
Friday, April 9, 2010 – 11:00AM-4:30PM
Registration: 11:00AM-12:00PM
Bristol Community College, Attleboro, MA

LAUNCH is a conference that brings together entrepreneurs, inventors, and innovative thinkers who want to find out how to develop and protect their ideas and who seek to develop 21st Century skills for people of all ages, in particular, science, technology, engineering, math (STEM) skills.

http://www.museumatthemill.org/Sessions__Sessions.html

March Madness!

2010-03-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

March Madness!

Wow-it's been an incredibly busy month for me! A lot has happened that I want to share. First, the WBZ radio interview that I finally did at the end of last month aired and I got to listen to it which was cool. It was OK for my first radio interview; I know I'll get better as I do more. Second, I was profiled in the Quarterly Newsletter for the Spina Bifida Association of Massachusetts. I wrote a one-page story for them about the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts/America programs and how they work, and of course explained how I came to be involved with the program. As an adult with Spina Bifida, I was happy to do this and to be a positive role model for my community.
Third, with the SBA Mass, I attended their kick-off party for their First Annual Walk n Roll which will be on May 23rd in Dedham MA. For more information or to sign up as a team or individual walker, go to www.sbamass.org. This event was on March 11th at Boston Beer Works. Originally the plan was for me to speak at this event in order to get everyone excited for the walk, but the turn-out wasn't what was originally expected so I just went to enjoy myself, which was fun too. Instead, I will be speaking at the actual event, which I think is much cooler!  I also hope to put together a team, whether it's with family and friends or co-workers from Horizons for Homeless Children where I volunteer. If you're interested feel free to let me know so I can sign us up; I'd be willing to be the team captain! Anyway, I got to meet Ellen Heffernan-Dugan who is the Director of the SBA Mass as well as other Board Members, and it was just a nice casual evening. I even played pool with some of the kids that came along with the adults which was comical to say the least! …I have photos of that, which I hope to post for everyone.
I also got connected with this woman named Krittiya Wongtavavimarn who is a graduate student at Emerson and also a news reporter in Boston. She is a journalism student doing a big project on women with disabilities and empowerment/inspiration and such, and she wanted to focus on Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts as her project, which will eventually become a website providing inspiration and empowerment for women with disabilities. She describes it as "not just school work" as it will be on the Boston News website. She's had previous experience with people with disabilities in Thailand where she's from, and she then learned how grateful people with disabilities are for what they do have, which sparked her interest in this area. I believe Laurel and Ashley also helped her out-thanks! She came out to Norwood where I live which was really helpful for me, as I'm not super comfortable using the subway and didn't know exactly how to get to Emerson. What she did was she interviewed me regarding my life and my disability, as well as the Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts program and how I came to be involved and some of the things I hope to accomplish while I have the title for 2010. Then we went out to the school playground next to my house, where she took lots of pictures as well. I thought this was nice and convenient as well as a huge open space to use while the kids were in school. I really enjoyed this and I can't wait to see the final product, which will consist of pictures, the interviews and of course her own text!
So this ends another month of my title…I can't believe how quickly it's going! This was a great month with lots of things going on…it will be hard to top it. Of course I'm still doing the usual fundraising for Nationals, which is going well. I'm hoping to put together a fundraiser soon to raise some big money, as my whole family still wants to attend the event to cheer me on. More details on that later though…Thanks everyone!

The Disability Policy Consortium

2010-03-17T07:55:00.001-07:00

The Disability Policy Consortium is excited to be sponsoring two great events this week, in honor of the Census. Both events will have great food and be lots of fun. All are welcome to attend! Please share with your networks. We hope to see everyone there!

Community Census Awareness Day

Saturday, March 20, 2010, 11am-3pm
Prince Hall Grand Lodge - 24 Washington Street, Dorchester, MA
Filled with music, food and family fun!
Come and bring your 2010 census form.
Census partners will be available to help you fill out your form.
A kids corner will be provided with lots of fun games.
ASL Interpreters will be present
DON’T MISS THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY!!
Remember the United States Census 2010 is in OUR HANDS

B.Y.O.C. Party!

What: Bring Your Own Census Party!
When: Friday, March 19, 2010, 12:00pm-3:00pm
Where: DPC Office, 59 Temple Place, Suite 669, Boston
Snacks, many free giveaways, and much more!
Please bring your Census form (which you will soon receive), and we can help you fill it out!

For more information, call 617-542-3522 or email rpowell@dpcma.org.
For more information on the Disability Policy Consortium or the 2010 Census, visit www.dpcma.org

2010-02-26T15:58:00.001-08:00

Hello from Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010

Hello Everyone!

First off, I wanted to introduce myself as the newest Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts for 2010, Santara Sen. I apologize for posting so late after my crowning but was undergoing some pretty big health issues during the holiday season-Thanksgiving, Christmas...all the way up to New Year's Eve...then I was good for a while and again back in the hospital the last week of January. Anyway, just wanted to explain that. I appreciate everyone's patience and support during this time, especially Autumn's, our state coordinator.

Well, I've done a few things already. I was interviewed by WBZ radio regarding Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts, which will be airing soon-she's going to let me know when. I wrote up a profile for the Spina Bifida Association of Massachusetts's Quarterly Newsletter regarding Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts, and I'm going to participate in the kick-off event in March for their First Annual Walk n Roll, which is on May 23, 2010. (For more information on that, go to their website (www.sbamass.org) and you can sign up on their volunteer page.

For my February event, I went to the Massachusetts State House for the first time ever, which was really exciting! It was for an event called "OUR Day" for the Disability Policy Consortium (www.dpcma.org) , advocating the needs for deaf, hard-of-hearing and deaf/blind constituents. (FYI-please go to their website to join this group to help us change legislation for the millions of people with disabilities! You can also join their cause on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.) We started the day hearing from different senators and such from the State House about what they do, and thanking us for being there...and sending out the message that we need to be there often to remind our senators and representatives of our needs. After that we went off to lunch, and then the afternoon was all about meeting with our senators and legislators. So...off I went to find Senator Marian Walsh to speak with her about the needs of this population. She wasn't there actually, but we were told that if the person we needed to see wasn't there we could speak to whomever was there instead...so I spoke to one of the assistants. I spoke of many different subjects related to Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing/Deaf-blind awareness. I knew I wanted to advocate for many of the pressing issues such as the CART system (Communication Access Real Time), Independent Living, Emergency situations, and the overall need for more interpreters for American Sign Language. The woman I spoke to seemed pretty receptive and wanted to hear what I had to say. I have friends who are both deaf and blind and I know the challenges they face everyday due to lack of access so this was very important to me to be able to speak up for them, even though I do not fall into one of these categories myself. To me it doesn't matter because we all have needs that need to be addressed and changes that need to be made to legislation for the better.

So after Senator Walsh's office, my next stop was to Representative John H. Rogers, who again was unavailable to speak with me. (I knew at the beginning of the day that this was going to be the case because appointments were not scheduled with these two particular people for some reason--either I was the only one from my hometown of Norwood, MA or they just weren't available-not sure which...)...so again (after getting lost about eight times trying to find his office hehe), I found it! This time, however, I was simply asked if I had information for him to read, and I said yes and gave it to the woman at the desk. Something to definitely follow up on there!

Because my representative and senator were both unavailable, I had a good hour and a half or so at the end free. So I decided to tag along with one of the other groups who were not done with their meetings and participated in theirs. So off we went (once we found out how to get there--did I mention the State House is very confusing?) to Senator Montigny's office and a large group of us got to speak with the lawyer who works for him. There were some different issues brought up in this group such as After-Hours Emergency Interpreter Services at hospitals and such and the need for them. We also asked why it seems that they have a variety of other "spoken" language interpreters such as Spanish, but not American Sign Language in hospitals--it's not something they focus on but they should!

So, that ends my first official appearance as Ms.Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010. Overall it was a very enjoyable day and it was interesting to be seeing American Sign Language again after not taking the courses for some time when I was in college. I'm looking forward to many other events in the future this year.

Thanks!
Santara

Defend the PCA program

2009-11-23T11:44:00.000-08:00

Defend the PCA program!

As many as 1,700 people are targeted to be cut from the PCA program. These medically-necessary services will be eliminated for people receiving less than 15 hours of services a month. People will lose assistance with bathing, dressing, and toileting. These are people with back injuries, diabetes, cancer, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, progressive diseases.

Speak out against PCA cuts!
Thursday, December 10, 12:00 noon
Governor Patrick’s Office, State House

Event sponsors include MWCIL, Stavros, Disability Policy Consortium, and ILCNSCA. Contact Boston Center for Independent Living at 617-338-6665, bhenning@bostoncil.org to sign on.

Zola Center Holiday Bazaar and Rummage Sale

2009-11-22T11:03:00.000-08:00

Join the fight for the rights of people with disabilities in Massachusetts – join the DPC today for FREE at www.dpcma.org

2009-11-17T08:40:00.001-08:00

The Disability Policy Consortium (DPC) is the only non-profit, statewide, cross-disability organization that actively engages the lawmakers and policy-makers in the Massachusetts government to fight for people with disabilities. We are one of the best-kept secrets in the world of people with disabilities-working for our civil rights, dignity, equality, welfare, and freedom from discrimination.
Please add your voice to our efforts to impact state and local government. With your help, we can do more.
Please join today for FREE by visiting www.dpcma.org.
All of our efforts go into promoting inclusion, independence, and empowerment by guiding policies that ensure programs and services enable people with disabilities to participate in the political, economic, and social mainstream of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
All members will have access to:
• Legislative Advocacy Training - Understand how bills become laws and how you can influence public policy decisions that affect you.
• Lobbying Leadership - Learn new skills for communicating, sharing, and advocating for yourself and others.
• Legislative Alert Service (email and by phone) - Receive vital up-to-date information regarding legislative and budget issues.
• Information on Issues of Importance - Receive information on relevant topics such as healthcare reform, accessibility issues, emergency planning, long terms supports and Medicaid.
People may join—FREE—online at www.dpcma.org (click join DPCMA). Together, we can make a difference!

2009-11-12T06:38:00.001-08:00

Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010 Schedule of Events

2009-11-07T12:16:00.000-08:00

Please Join us for the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Crowning Gala and disAbility Expo on Sunday November 15th 2009 from 10:30 - 4:30

at Carson Place in the Bayside Expo Center Complex, 180 Mt. Vernon Street Boston , MA 02125
disAbility Expo from 10:30 am - 3:oo pm will feature
Invacare Corp
TiLite Wheelchairs
Rehab Marketing
Pride Mobility Products
Permobil Inc

Mariposa Press
Kathleen Johnson

Wheelchair Recycler
Partners for Youth with Disabilities
Disability Policy Consortium

at 1pm we will have a very special presentation "Women of Strength" by Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2007, Ms. Wheelchair America 2008 Kristen McCosh

Crowning Gala
3:30 p.m.– 4:30 p.m.
PLATFORM SPEECHES
Each contestant will present a 2 minute platform speech.
ON STAGE JUDGING SESSION
Following the speeches the contestants will have a brief on stage interview with the judges.
FAREWELL ADDRESS
While the judges confer, Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009 will give her final speech.
CROWNING CEREMONY
The runners-up will be named and the new titleholder crowned.
Crowning will be followed by desserts for the contestants, attendants, judges and guests.

The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2010 Pageant and disAbility Expo

2009-10-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

Disability Reframed: A Community Film Series

2009-10-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

Saturday, October 24, 2009
Time: 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Location: West Cambridge Youth & Community Center
680 Huron Avenue, Fresh Pond
Cambridge, MA

Come to a FREE matinee screening of Billy Golfus’ remarkable documentary, When Billy Broke His Head & Other Tales of Wonder.
This autobiographical film tells the story of Golfus’ recovery from a motorcycle accident and his entry into the world of disability culture and politics. Golfus is an award-winning radio documentary producer whose first film is an unforgettable tribute to disability culture. The film will be followed by open audience discussion, moderated by Naomi Pinson.This is a scent free event. Out of consideration for people with environmental illness or multiple chemical sensitivity, please refrain from using perfume or other scented products. For sign language interpreters or other accommodations, please contact the CommissionforPersons with Disabilities by October 19 at 617 349 4692 (voice) or 617 492 0235 (TTY) or email mmuehe@cambridgema.gov.

Celebrate Disability History Month

2009-10-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Disability History Month

State House Celebration
Please join us to recognize young advocates with disabilities who worked with
the Commonwealth to establish October as Disability History Month

Where: Massachusetts State House, Boston
Nurses Hall

When: Thursday, October 15, 2009
2pm to 3pm

· Join us and rally at the State House to advocate that public schools across the Commonwealth recognize October as Disability History Month
· Show your support for the next chapter of the Disability Rights Movement

This event is sponsored by Senator Steven A. Tolman & State Representative Barbara A. L’Italien

Act Today Influence-Tomorrow

2009-10-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

Act Today Influence-Tomorrow celebrates
Disability History Month
Join us on Saturday October 17th for another celebration of this great achievement, and way to learn more about Act Today Influence Tomorrow.

Where: Easter Seals Boston
89 South Street, Boston

When: Saturday, October 17, 2009
1pm to 3pm

The Final Days

2009-08-29T11:43:00.000-07:00

The last few days have been quite a whirlwind. First of all, I have been battling a stomach bug all week and unfortunately it caught up to me yesterday. I woke up to a racing heart and shortness of breath. I had to be taken by ambulance to Rapid City Regional Hospital and was given fluids. They also “paced” my heart by overriding my pacemaker so my heart rate is back to normal. I am very fortunate because the doctors took very good care of me. I missed my judging yesterday but the judges were gracious enough to let me make it up later this afternoon. So I’ll bring you up to speed on what’s been going on:
Thursday was the second day of judging. I was judged second at 8:30 a.m. Boy, was it an early morning! Then I went to a few workshops on what to expect if you win Ms. Wheelchair America and how to relate with the media. The first workshop was run by the current titleholder, Michelle, who had done more than a great job representing all people with disabilities! She gave some great tips on fundraising, PR, and what kinds of events to expect. It sure was great to hear all about her reign and how much she accomplished in only a year. The next workshop was on media and a local television anchor ran the workshop. It was a great discussion group and we all gave our opinions on what the responsibilities are of the media. The day wasn’t over then though.
We all lined up and walked to downtown Rapid City which was about 3 blocks away. There was a reception for all the state titleholders, companions, friends, families, and other supporters to celebrate what a great week we were having. After that, my mom and I went to dinner with Ms. Arkansas and Ms. Washington and their companions to a local restaurant that used to be a firehouse. We had a great time. By the end of the day, I was exhausted. I didn’t sleep well and had to go to the ER the next day. But everything worked out because I felt better and was able to do my platform speech last night. I spoke about how important it is that people with disabilities vote. We all have a voice that statistics show we are not utilizing. We may face barriers but not much has stopped us so this shouldn’t either. Everyone did a great job with their platform speeches which is a difficult thing to accomplish so we can all hold our heads up high.
Today we had rehearsal for the crowning ceremony. They will pick the top five finalists in random order. The top five will then have to perform their platform speech again (not judged) and will be asked a hard and “light hearted” question. There will be several awards given out, including Ms. Congeniality, and then the winner will be announced. I am so proud of all the women and whatever happens, we all have won with the experience of the week. I have to go get my hair and makeup done and get ready for tonight! I’ll let you know what happens!

The Judging Begins!

2009-08-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

Today was the first official day of judging so it seemed like everyone was both excited and nervous. The judging sessions for today was determined by alphabetical order of the states. So my session was the first after lunch. But the start of the day began with a workshop. It was headed up by Crystal, the state coordinator of Nebraska and Autumn, our very own state coordinator from Massachusetts! They planned a “team building” workshop. We began by getting assigned an animal. We had to then make the sound of the animal to find our partner. Luckily, or unluckily, I was a cow so I put out my best moooo to find my partner who ended up being Danielle, Ms. Wheelchair Ohio. We filled out a questionnaire and presented it to our group. We then partnered up with Ms. Wheelchair Texas and New York to come up with some great ideas of what we believe should be the future of the Ms. Wheelchair America pageant. It happened to include a flying wheelchair.
After lunch, I went to wait outside the judges room to be called in. An exciting part of this week that I forgot to mention yesterday is the entire pageant is being taped for a documentary! So I was filmed before and after my interview. Although I cannot reveal the questions, I felt confident in my answers as they were true to myself. It felt relieving to get the first session over with. The second half of the day we were treated to a presentation by Dallas about how he can up with the accessible campground “Meeting the Need” and his other disability organizations. He was very inspiring. The next and final workshop of the day was taught by several martial arts instructors who showed us some interesting self defense maneuvers. I learned that there are pressure points behind both your ears that would drop to you to your knees if I hit them in the right spot. So watch out!
The day ended with the 50’s sock hop night. Everyone looked wonderful with their poodle skirts and colorful scarves. “Shelvis” performed some Elvis/Grease hits and got everyone out on the dance floor. All the contestants danced the night away and seemed to have a great time. I’m off to bed because I have an early judging session and more workshops. I’ll let you know how tomorrow goes!

South Dakota Day 1 and 2

2009-08-25T20:39:00.000-07:00

My mom and I started our voyage to S. Dakota yesterday at 6:30 a.m. I had the unfortunate bad luck of being up since 2:00 a.m. since I did not feel good. My mom came over early to help me finish packing and looking at me, asked, “Do you still want to go?” For a second, I did not think she was serious. There would be nothing short of death to prevent me from traveling to the competition. We left at 7:58 a.m. and flew into Denver, Co and met two of the contestants while we waited to board our flight into Rapid City. We were fortunate enough to share our plane ride with Ms. Wheelchair Washington and Arkansas. We finally got to the hotel and settled in while we waited for dinner. We had dinner and orientation and got prepared for the next day.

Today was our “fun” day excursion through S. Dakota. We all traveled in accessible vans and even had a police escort through town! I think we all felt like royalty. We first laid eyes on Mt. Rushmore as we drove around the final of many bends in the road and the monument looked like it was almost not real. We gathered for our group picture which was fabulous yet chaotic. Seeing the monument close up was breathtaking. It truly is a treasure of the United States. As a politics junky, seeing such a great historical masterpiece was absolutely fantastic. We then had lunch and went to the gift shop. My favorite part of the day was when multiple Massachusetts-ites came up to me and wished me good luck. They all were happy to see their home state represented and I was proud to be their representative. We then were treated to a great show by a local Native American young woman who shared her extraordinary story with us. We also were given a brief history of Mount Rushmore. Did you know that the monument was originally supposed to be a carving of the Presidents’ body as well? I did not!
We packed back into the vans and were taken to “Meeting the Need” which is an all accessible old tin mine which has been turned into a campground. We had a big “cowboy” style meal with our meat and potatoes along with a delicious dessert. Our entertainment for the night was an all-female group called T.R.A.S.H. (Truly Rational and Sane Humans) who put on a great show and even sang an original song for us and did a roast of the current titleholder. By the end of the day, we were all exhausted and are getting prepared for tomorrow. The competition is officially going to start so I guess it’s time to put the game face on :)

Welcome Ms Wheelchair America 2010

2009-08-25T14:00:00.000-07:00

A HUGE Thank You to All!

2009-08-14T07:06:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I wanted to thank everyone who was able to attend my fundraiser on August 1st, 2009. It was a great success and I had a lot of fun. We held it at Bostonville Grill in Lynnfield, MA which happens to be where my sister works. The owner, Dawn, was very gracious in letting us use one of their function rooms and made sure everything was accessible. She even wrote “Congratulation Ashley!” on the sign out front.

It was so inspiring to see all my friends and family who attended. We had 62 people come to the event! From long time friends, former and current co-workers, family, kids I used to babysit for, and more, it sure was a night to remember. We also had a 50/50 raffle which raised an additional pot of money. Everyone stuffed themselves with pizza, chicken pasta, salad, and soda. I even saw a few friends on the arcade games and they returned with huge smiles with the cool prizes they had won. I really feel blessed to know that I have so many people that support and love me. I also appreciate all those who were not able to attend who still donated. A big thank-you to all of you as well!

Autumn and I are gearing up for South Dakota! It is less than two weeks away now and the stress is starting to build up. It is the kind of stress though that excites me because I am so anxious to meet all the wonderful women who are such great role models for women with disabilities. I am preparing my speech and hope to convey my message of how important voting is for people with (and without) disabilities. With everything happening with health care reform, no matter what your opinion is, make sure it is heard! This time is so important in our lives and we must not be left out of one of the most important discussions of our time! And as always, feel free to email me with event ideas/questions/concerns at mswheelchairma09@yahoo.com. See you all soon!

Free Soccer Clinic

2009-08-13T15:45:00.001-07:00

Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital is offering a free soccer clinic for youth with disabilities and their siblings on Friday, August 28 from 2:00 – 4:00 at Gillette Stadium Game Field. It’s a great opportunity to play soccer and meet the NE Revolution players and coaches.

To attend, please contact:

Glenn McKenney
pccevents@partners.org
617 573 7177

Forwarded on behalf of Partners for Youth with Disabilities

Wheelchair Football Clinic

2009-08-11T07:37:00.000-07:00

Wheelchair Football Clinic
Date: Saturday August 22, 2009 Rain or Shine

Gillette Stadium Parking lot
1 Patriot Place,
Foxboro, MA 02035

Wheelchair football is an adaption of American football that gives people with physical disabilities such as SCI, amputees, spina bifida, etc as well as the able-bodied a chance to play in this exciting sport.

The purpose of the clinic is to introduce participants to wheelchair football and to organize a wheelchair football program. Event is FREE!

To register for clinic, please contact NEPVA at 508-660-1181 or see www.nepva.org for registration forms.
10:00 - 10:30am Registration
10:30 - 12:30pm Mobility skills, Rules of the game, and football drills
12:30 - 1:30pm Lunch
2:00 - 4:00pm Exhibition Games against NY Giants Wheelchair football team

Check out there website http://www.nepva.org/files/Football_flyer_BW.pdf

Sponsored by New England Patriots and New England Paralyzed Veterans of America
For more information, please check www.nepva.org or contact
Thomas Dodd
Assistant Sports Director
New England Paralyzed veterans of America
508-660-1181
ThomasD@nepva.org

Originally posted by CHD's Disabilty Resource Program

Happy 19th Anniversary ADA

2009-07-24T16:57:00.000-07:00

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release

July 24, 2009
ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, 2009
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Today we celebrate the 19th anniversary of the enactment of the historic Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Signed into law on July 26, 1990, this landmark legislation established a clear mandate against discrimination on the basis of disability so that people with disabilities would have an equal opportunity to achieve the American Dream.

Our Nation is once again poised to make history for people with disabilities. I am proud to announce that the United States will sign the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in New York on December 13, 2006. The Convention is the first new human rights convention of the 21st century adopted by the United Nations, and it represents a paradigm shift in protecting the human rights of 650 million people with disabilities worldwide. We proudly join the international community in further advancing the rights of people with disabilities.

As we reflect upon the past and look toward a brighter future, we recognize that our country has made great progress. More than ever before, Americans with disabilities enjoy greater access to technology and economic self-sufficiency. More communities are accessible, more children with disabilities learn alongside their peers, and more employers recognize the capabilities of people with disabilities.

Despite these achievements, much work remains to be done. People with disabilities far too often lack the choice to live in communities of their choosing; their unemployment rate is much higher than those without disabilities; they are much likelier to live in poverty; health care is out of reach for too many; and too many children with disabilities are denied a world-class education.

My Administration has met these challenges head-on. We have launched the "Year of Community Living" to help people with disabilities live wherever they choose. We have nearly doubled the funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. I was proud to sign the groundbreaking Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act and the Children's Health Insurance Reauthorization Act, which provides health insurance to millions of additional children. I also lifted the ban on stem cell more research. These measures demonstrate our commitment to leveling the playing field for every person with a disability. My Administration will not rest on these accomplishments, and we will continue to focus on improving the lives of people with disabilities. I encourage States, localities, and communities across the country to cultivate an environment in which the 54 million Americans living with a disability are valued and respected.

Americans have repeatedly affirmed the importance of protecting the human rights and dignity of every member of this great country. Through the steps we have taken, we will continue to build on the ADA and demonstrate our ongoing commitment to promoting, protecting, and ensuring the full enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by people with disabilities.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2009, as the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I call on Americans across our country to celebrate the progress we have made in protecting the civil rights of people with disabilities and to recognize the step forward we make with the signing of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Inspired by the advances of the last 19 years, let us commit to greater achievements in the years ahead.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

originally posted http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/Presidential-Proclamation-19th-anniversary-of-the-Americans-with-Disabilities-Act/

Access To Theatre - Free Performances July 31st

2009-07-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

Access to Theatre
Boston Center for the Arts
Performances on July 31 at 2:00 and 7:30

BOSTON, MA – In partnership with the Boston Center for the Arts’ (BCA) Cyclorama Residency Series, Partners for Youth with Disabilities, Until Tomorrow Productions, and VSA arts of Massachusetts, Access to Theatre will present an original production on July 31, 2009 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm, in the Cyclorama at the Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont Street in Boston’s South End.

Created by, with, and for young people (ages 13-24) with and without disabilities, Access to Theatre (ATT), provides fully accessible participatory theater arts experiences, enabling youth to develop creative expression, self-esteem, friendship, and leadership skills. Participants work with professional artists to stage and create original theater productions.

A Cyclorama Residency Series Program at the Boston Center for the Arts since 1997, Access to Theatre has worked with over 600 young people in over 42 original productions for 30,000 audience members. Through these programs, participants explore movement/dance, music, spoken word and the countless combinations that can be created in an artistic experience that will be influenced by the audience.

Access to Theatre will be in residence at the BCA from July 13 – July 31, 2009, and will culminate in two performances of an original production on Friday, July 31, at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm. All performances are wheelchair accessible, ASL interpreted and Audio Described. Performances are free and open to the public; donations are accepted.

Originally posted by Alex Freeman Partners for Youth with Disabilities

My First Two Events!

2009-07-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

Going to my first event as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts emanated feelings of both excitement and nervousness. My first event was at Faneuil Hall in Boston to support the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) in their “fill the boot” fundraiser. Upon arrival, I met a friendly Boston firefighter named Dennis. Dennis was shouting “Help us fill the boot!”. I waited to meet Kate McTighe, who was the coordinator of the event, to find out how I could help. The weather was perfect—sunny and warm. There were streams of people continuously flowing toward Faneuil Hall. In these tough economic times, it seems hard to be able to fundraise since everyone is watching every nickel and dime. But, to my surprise, they were many people who came up to Dennis and I to donate. It was a testament to the generosity of people.

Kate arrived and told me to help out with whatever I wanted. I started off at the table with Dennis but slowly moved over to the antique fire engine where the little kids raced to be the next one to put on a fire fighters jacket and get in to “drive”. I brought my dog, Jackson, as an ice breaker to meet people and start a conversation. It worked and many people approached me to ask me questions. I try to be as open as I can so I shared my story of being diagnosed with MD and how it has affected my life thus far. The event seemed to be a success and many people were able to give to a great cause. I hope to work with Kate and the MDA again.

My second event happened to occur the next day. I traveled to Boston again to the Children’s Museum and their “Access Ability” exhibit. I met with Ellen Thompson who brought me up to the exhibit and showed me around. The exhibit was fantastic! There were all kinds of sensory and interactive ways to learn about people with disabilities. My personal favorite (and maybe I’m biased) was when kids could sit in a child-sized wheelchair, wheel up a ramp, open a door, and then try to retrieve something on a shelf. Kids seemed to have fun with this but also experienced first hand what it’s like to be in a wheelchair. I met many kids from all over—North Carolina, Virginia, even Great Britain! The kids were so enthralled with the exhibit and seemed to gain knowledge about people with disabilities (even if they didn’t realize it!). Ellen also explained that this exhibit would be traveling the country to give other museums an opportunity to expose kids to the experience. It was a great event and something that is very important to disability awareness.

As Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts, I am grateful to be able to participate in such great events. I look forward to seeing you all at the next one!

Ashley

Help Send Ashley to the Ms. Wheelchair America Pageant

2009-07-15T12:15:00.000-07:00

Ashley's family and friends are putting on a fundraiser to send Ashley to South Dakota to compete in the Ms. Wheelchair America 2010 pageant in August.

When: 6-9 p.m. Saturday August 1st, 2009
Where: Bostonville on Rt. 1 in Lynnfield, MA
What: $20 for all you can eat pizza, chicken/broccoli/ziti, salad, and soda.
Why: Ashley has won the title of Ms. Wheelchair MA! Come out and support her quest to nationals in South Dakota. There is plenty to do: arcade games, watch the Red Sox in HD, and great food!

If you are unable to attend but would still like to make a donation, please mail check or M.O. to:
Ms. Wheelchair MA Foundation P.O. Box 168 Raynham, MA 02767-0168. Please include Ashley's name on the memo line.

Support the Disability History Bill

2009-07-15T12:07:00.000-07:00

The Disability History Bill hearing will be tomorrow at 12pm in Room B-1 at the State House in Boston MA.
Please spread the word and try to be there to testify in support of this bill.
Also contact both your Senator and Representative and ask them to go to the hearing and support the bill.

Orginally posted on Facebook by Stacy Rogers

Beware: Fraudulent Email Is Circulating About Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation regarding fundraising

2009-07-14T14:35:00.000-07:00

There has been a fraudulent email circulating about the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation (MWMF) in recent weeks.

Please disregard any emails you receive that say the Attorney General is investigating the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation for illegal fundraising (you may also want to ask the sender to remove your email from the spam list).

THIS IS NOT TRUE

The source of this email is claiming that MWMF has not registered as a "Public Charity," and therefore has no "Certificate of Solicitation" to fundraise. However, the MWMF is registered as a public charity, AG#049560 and does have a Certificate for Solicitation.

In addition, MWMF is actually exempt from having a Certificate of Solitation because we meet the requirements of section 2 below.

Please see the following statute which exempts our organization from needing this certificate.

Overview of Solicitation: "M.G.L. c. 68, s. 18, defines commercial co-venturer, professional fundraising counsel, professional solicitor, and solicitation.The following two categories of charitable organizations are not required to have a “Certificate of Solicitation”:

1. An organization that is primarily religious in purpose; or

2. An organization that does not raise or receive contributions from the public in excess of $5,000 during a calendar year or does not receive contributions from more than ten persons during a calendar year, if all of their functions, including fundraising activities, are performed by persons who are not paid for their services and if no part of their assets or income inures to the benefit of, or is paid to, any officer or members (M.G.L. c. 68, s. 20).

Please feel free to contact the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation if you have any questions regarding this spam, or visit www.mass.gov/ago . And remember, you can't believe everything you read in unsolicited bulk emails.

Help Ashley and Boston Fire "Fill the Boot"

2009-06-30T17:15:00.000-07:00

On July 11th from noon to 3pm Ashley will assist Boston Fire with a Boot Drive at Faneuil Hall to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association. In addition to Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009 , MDA State Goodwill Ambassador Emma Russell will be there. Entertainment will include bagpipers and an antique fire engine on display.

access/Ability

2009-06-30T15:54:00.000-07:00

From now until the end of August the Boston Children's Museum is offering an interactive exhibit called access/Ability

On Sunday July 12th from 11am - noon, Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009 Ashley Speicher will be available for a "Meet and Greet" at the exhibit. Please bring your family by to check out this informative exhibit and meet Ashley.

From the Boston Children's Museum website

access/ABILITY is a highly interactive, yet sensitive, disability awareness exhibit that delivers the message to visitors that as human beings, we are more alike than different. This unique exhibit presents people living with disabilities as participants in the world and features fun and engaging activities that show the similarities and differences in how each of us with or without disabilities go places, communicate, have fun, and learn. Visitors will have a chance to learn phrases in American Sign Language, type their names in Braille, try a hand-pedaled bike and take part in a multi-sensory City Walk.

Public Hearing on Evacuation Chairs for High Raise Buildings

2009-06-22T16:42:00.000-07:00

Public Hearing on Evacuation Chairs for High Rise Buildings

Joint Committee on Public Safety June 25, 2009, 11:00 a.m. Room B-2 SB961

- An Act to Improve Safety in High-Rise Buildings
Senator Joan Menard's bill would improve the safety of those with disabilities living in high-rise buildings by requiring that certain buildings have evacuation chairs.

Further information on bill is provided below. You are welcome to testify on your own experiences, especially if you live in a high-rise building.

Please contact Robyn Powell at rpowell@dpcma.org for guidance with your testimony.

An Act to Promote Safety in Multi-story building CHAPTER 148.

FIRE PREVENTION shall be amended by adding Section 26J as follows: Evacuation chairs required in certain residential and commercial structures; regulation; inspections; enforcement Section 26J.
(a) Every dwelling, building or structure, including those owned or operated by the commonwealth, occupied in whole or in part for residential, commercial or non-commercial purposes, that: (1) is over four stories in height or (2) has occupied space above the height of the tallest fire department ladder shall be equipped with approved evacuation chairs on each stair well or evacuation route.
(b) The board of fire prevention regulations shall promulgate such regulations as may be necessary to effectuate this section including, but not limited to, the type, installation, location, maintenance and inspectional requirements of evacuation chairs or evacuation equipment as the board determines appropriate. (More)

RATIONALE
The Disability Policy Consortium met with many people in small groups across the Commonwealth in 2008 to discuss emergency preparedness. One constant concern that was constantly raised by many people was the lack of planning for people who live in high rise buildings. People with disabilities, particularly those in power wheelchairs, feel particularly vulnerable when they live on higher floors above the reach of fire department ladders.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has installed simple, lightweight evacuation chairs in One Ashburton Place to facilitate evacuating people from upper floors. While certainly not a panacea, the availability of evacuation chairs and their live-saving potential can not be underestimated.

Orignally posted by Robyn Powell on the Disability Policy Consortium Page on Faceback

Voters with Disabilities- Report from Goverment Accountability Office

2009-06-22T16:32:00.000-07:00

Voters With Disabilities: More Polling Places Had NoPotential Impediments Than in 2000, but Challenges Remain (GAO-09-685)

What GAO Found:
We found that, compared to 2000, the proportion of polling places without potential impediments increased and the most significant reduction in potential impediments occurred at building entrances. We estimate that 27 percent of polling places had no features that might impede access to the voting area for people with disabilities-up from 16 percent in 2000; 45 percent of the polling places had potential impediments but offered curbside voting; and the remaining 27 percent of polling places had potential impediments and did not offer curbside voting.

While the percent of polling places with multiple impediments decreased significantly from 2000, still a fair number-16 percent-had four or more potential impediments in 2008. The most significant reduction since 2000 was that potential impediments at building entrances-such as narrow doorways-decreased from 59 percent to 25 percent. Most polling places we visited on Election Day 2008 had features in the voting area to facilitate private and independent voting, while some had features that could pose challenges.

Virtually all polling places had at least one voting system-typically an accessible voting machine in a voting station-to facilitate private and independent voting for people with disabilities. However, we found that 29 percent of the voting stations were not arranged to accommodate a wheelchair. Seventy-seven percent of polling places had voting stations with accessible
machines that offered the same or more privacy than stations for other voters, while the remaining polling places had stations that offered less privacy. For example, some voting stations were not positioned to prevent others from seeing how voters using the accessible machines were marking their ballots.

The report is available at:PDF Version:http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09685.pdf
Accessible text version:http://www.gao.gov/htext/d09685.html

2009-06-22T16:29:00.000-07:00

Ashley Speicher is 23 years old from Lynn, MA. Ashley grew up in Beverly, MA with her younger sister, Lisa, younger brother Jamie and parents Jim and Diane. She lived a normal childhood playing soccer, softball, and cheerleading until May 1996 when she became ill. She was diagnosed with glycogen storage disease, a form of muscular dystrophy (MD). She had a heart transplant on January 4, 1997.

In 2004, Ashley began to use a wheelchair due to weakness in her legs caused by the MD. Since then, Ashley has become an active advocate for people with disabilities. She has spoken on several disability awareness panels and served on the A.D.A./504 committee at her alma mater, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) where she graduated magna cum laude in 2007.

Her volunteer work includes travels to Pass Christian, MS and Pecan Island, LA to help with Hurricane Katrina clean-up, serving in the Governor of New Hampshire’s successful re-election campaign in 2006, and with the American Red Cross in 2005. Her awards include the Emerging Leader of the Year (2006) from SNHU and Youth Leadership Award (2007) from Independent Living Center of the North Shore and Cape Ann (ILCNSCA).

For almost two years, Ashley worked at ILCNSCA as a Peer Guide and later as their Community Transition Coordinator. She currently works at Action Inc. in Gloucester, MA and is a volunteer for the New England Organ Bank. She remains committed to giving people with disabilities a voice through voting and participating in the shaping of public policy.

Ashley is available for appearances please contact mswheelchairmass06@yahoo.com for more details.

Congratulations Ashley

2009-06-21T09:24:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Ashley Speicher Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009! To book Ashley for appearances please contact Autumn Grant at mswheelchairmass06@yahoo.com

2009-06-18T17:37:00.000-07:00

June 16, 2009

For Immediate Release

Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation Welcomes New Titleholder

The Board of Directors of the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation (MWM) is pleased to introduce our new state titleholder, Ashley Speicher, 23, of Lynn. Ms. Speicher is a committed advocate for persons with disabilities. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BA in Political Science from Southern New Hampshire University, and currently works at Action, Inc. in Gloucester. She will travel to South Dakota in August to compete in the national Ms. Wheelchair America 2010 competition.

Ms. Speicher, who originally placed as first runner-up in the state pageant in March, has assumed the position of titleholder after the original winner, Maryan Amaral, was released from her contract.

The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation is a non-profit organizations that seeks to promote the accomplishments of women with disabilities. It is in no way a beauty pageant; rather, it is a competition to select the most articulate spokesperson to communicate the needs as well as the achievements of women who use wheelchairs.

Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009 Ashley Speicher is available for local apearances and events throughout the state.

Please contact MWM State Coordinator Autumn Grant at mswheelchairmass06@yahoo.com to schedule an appearance.

Disability History Month Bill Hearing

2009-05-12T11:10:00.000-07:00

Event: Disability History Month Bill Hearing
"Come Testify and let the Legislature why we NEED disability history month in public schools"
What: Protest
Host: Act Today - Influence TomorrowStart
Time: Thursday, May 14 at 11:00am
End Time: Thursday, May 14 at 2:00pm
Where: State House hearing room A1

The State Rehabilitation Council Artists with Disabilities Task Force presents “OPEN STUDIOS”

2009-04-21T15:45:00.000-07:00

“OPEN STUDIOS”

Featuring artwork by the State Rehabilitation Council Artists with Disabilities Task Force

When: Saturday, May 2nd 2009
Time: 11:00AM to 3:00 PM

Where: Center Communities
1550 Beacon Street, 3rd Floor
Brookline, MA

We will provide many fun activities including storytelling, musical performances, balloon animals, and opportunities to meet with each artist and learn about the specifics of their craft. You may purchase artwork at any time during the event.

ASL Interpreters are available if requested. Please give at least two weeks notice if requesting an interpreter.

For more information please contact:
Lisa Weber
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
Consumer Involvement Program
Telephone 617-204-3638 (V/TTY)
Email: lisa.weber@mrc.state.ma.us

Int'l exchange and disability event on May 1 in NYC

2009-04-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange Mobility International USA www.miusa.org

Disability Community Seminar: Accessing the World through International Exchange New York May 1, 2009

People from the U.S. disability and Deaf community are invited for this one-day seminar and luncheon in New York City as we discuss the ‘Who, What, Where and Why’ of international exchange, including overseas cultural, educational, professional and volunteer programs, for U.S. students, teachers, professionals and others with disabilities.

* Presenters with disabilities will share personal international exchange stories and talk about accommodation strategies for navigating abroad, what to bring, what to expect and more.

Participants will receive practical tools and resources on using VR and keeping SSI benefits, while also learning about scholarships available for international exchange.

* Representatives of international exchange organizations will present about programs to apply to, such as Fulbright fellowships, and best inclusive practices in the international exchange field.

When: Friday, May 1, 2009, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Where:Institute of International Education (IIE) 809 United Nations Plaza 12th Floor Conference Center New York, NY
Cost: $40(includes lunch).
Scholarship for a reduced rate is available byrequest.Wheelchair Accessible. Sign language interpreter, alternative formats andother disability-related accommodations provided upon request.

For More Information and Registration, go to:http://www.miusa.org/ncde/seminarnyc or contact MIUSA at:Email: clearinghouse@miusa.org Tel/TTY: (541) 343-1284

This event is co-sponsored by Mobility International USA, the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State and theInstitute of International Education.Registration deadline: April 17, 2009 - Space limited to 50 participants, so register early! http://www.miusa.org/ncde/seminarnyc

The National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange provides freeinformation and referral services related to the participation of peoplewith disabilities in international exchange programs. The Clearinghouse issponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S.Department of State, and is managed by Mobility International USA, which is celebrating its 28th year as a U.S.-based non-profit organization.
Our mailing address is:
Mobility International USA
132 E. Broadway, Suite 343
Eugene, Oregon 97401 USA
Our telephone/tty:541-343-1284

A National Teleconference and Webcast Presented by the

2009-04-11T14:16:00.000-07:00

Advocate!! Spread The Word!!
Help Young People With Disabilities Talk About Education!!

A National Teleconference and Webcast Presented by the
National Youth Leadership Network (NYLN)

When: Tuesday, April 14, 2009
8:00pm Eastern Time

What: Please join us as the speakers will be discussing the following issues:
Ø Independent Living: Links to life after high school, post-secondary and beyond!
Ø Transition: Links between school and career goals!
Ø Education for all: Individuals with cognitive disabilities succeeding in post-secondary education!
Ø Guest speaker: Micah Fialka-Feldman, Disability Rights Advocate
Ø Guest Speaker: Jeff Moyer, Public speaker and Human Rights

How:
1) Go to www.nyln.org <http://www.nyln.org <http://www.nyln.org/>
2) Click the teleconference link.
3) Register your information.
4) Press send!

This teleconference is presented by the National Youth Information Center of the National Youth Leadership Network. Thanks to Independent Living Research Utilization (ILRU) for supporting this event!

Making History And Breaking Barriers

2009-04-11T14:14:00.000-07:00

The Museum of Science and Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital present

Making History And Breaking Barriers:
A Discussion With Ernst Van Dyk, The Seven-Time Boston Marathon Men's Wheelchair Division Champion

Friday, April 17, 2:30pm
Museum of Science: Science & Technology Stage

Ernst van Dyk is the seven-time Boston Marathon Men's Wheelchair Division Champion. Over the years, Ernst has become a world-renowned motivational speaker, speaking about overcoming adversity, setting goals, making sense out of setbacks in life and living a dream. He instills hope in audiences of all ages and abilities about finding meaning in life and making the best of the cards you got dealt. This year he will be going for his record-breaking eighth win in Boston. Some of Ernst's other accomplishments include: First Wheelchair Racer to break 1h20 for the marathon, only athlete to medal in 2 sports in Beijing at the 2008 Olympics, and World's Best Time for the marathon of 1:18.27 (2004). Ernst is also the captain of Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital's Race for Rehab Marathon Team. The Spaulding team was one of six selected by the Boston Athletic Association(r) to be an official charity in 2009. For more information please visit www.spauldingrehab.org.

Free with Museum admission. A limited number of free admission passes are available.
Contact Maria Cabrera at 617-589-0418 or mcabrera@mos.org for more information.

Bowling Fundraiser for The Wheelchair Recycler

2009-04-05T08:17:00.000-07:00

The Wheelchair Recycler a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit online at wheelchairrecycler.org

Independence Roll

Join Us
Saturday May 16, 2009
8pm - Midnight

A fun night of bowling for a great cause! Raffles, door prizes and more.

Located at Ryan Family Amusements 1170 Main Street, Millis MA

A charity bowling event to benefit The Wheelchair Recycler Inc.
Admission is $20 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Includes shoe rental and lanes fee.

RSVP with Facebook at www.independenceroll.com or email event@independenceroll.com

Raffle and door prizes include gifts from:
Adamaunt Diamonds, Newton Cranberry Real Estate, West Dennis Astro Imaging Ink & Toner, Malden Starbucks & more

Career Expo for People with Disabilities

2009-03-19T12:02:00.000-07:00

Boston, MA

Date:April 3, 2009
Time:10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location:Boston Marriott Copley Place Hotel 110 Huntington Ave.Boston, MA 02116

Register for the Annual Career Expo to meet with Fortune 500 Companies and Government agencies looking to recruit new talent. You must pre-register in order to attend the event at http://www.eop.com/exporegistration.html

Easter Seals Assistive Technology Conference

2009-03-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

EASTER SEALS MASSACHUSETTS ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY 2009 SPRING CONFERENCE & EXPOSITION

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Radisson Hotel Plymouth Harbor

Plymouth, MA

April 9, 2009

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Exhibitors and advertisers:
Advocacy Plus

Children's Hospital Autism Language Program

Cotting School, Inc.

Daniel Trask

Elizabeth Struss M.Ed.

Massachusetts Equipment Distribution Program

TLC Trust

Adapti Vision

Adaptive Driving Program

Adaptive Technology, a Division of Perkins Products

Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts

Cambium Learning Technologies:

Kurzweil & IntelliTools

Center for Living and Working/MAEDP Telephone Program

Children's Hospital Autism Language Program

Class Inc.Cotting School, Inc.

Disability Law Center

DynaVox and Mayaer-Johnson

Freedom Scientific

Massachusetts Commission for the Blind

Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Massachusetts Equipment Distribution Program

National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Northeast Passage

Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic

Ride Away

Talking Book Library/Worcester Public Library

Texthelp Systems, Inc.

Tobii ATI

Wheelchair Escapes

Advocacy Day April 15th

2009-03-18T17:03:00.000-07:00

Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009 Pageant and disAbility Expo

2009-03-18T16:42:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release

The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009 Pageant and disAbility Expo

Contact:
Autumn Grant
Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts State Coordinator
The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation
mswheelchairmass06@yahoo.com
774-501-1185

Boston, MA, March 18, 2009 – The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts Foundation presents The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009 Pageant and disAbility Expo on Saturday, March 29, 2009, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Carson Place in the Bayside Expo Center Complex.

The purpose of the pageant is to find a state and national spokeswoman for the disabled.

“I am very excited about this year's pageant as all seven contestants are extraordinary. I know that whoever is selected as Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009, she will carry on our tradition of excellence at the national level,” says Autumn Grant, Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts State Coordinator. “All of our four previous titleholders have received special recognition at the national pageant through Courage Awards, top five finishes and two National Titleholders.” Grant was crowned Ms. Wheelchair America 2007 and Ms Wheelchair Massachusetts 2006.

“By running a disAbility Expo concurrently with the pageant this year, we are hoping to expose more people in the community to this wonderful program of advocacy, education and opportunity,” continues Grant.

The crowning ceremony is from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. The disAbility Expo is from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and features the following:
Mobility Product Vendors
Works of Artists with Disabilities
Non-Profit Organizations
General Vendors

Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.mswheelchairmass.org/expo.html, call 774-501-1185 or email http://us.mc337.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=mswheelchairmass06@yahoo.

About The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts 2009 Pageant
The Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts pageant is not a traditional pageant; it is a competition based on personal interviews, platform speech presentations and on-stage interviews to find a state and national spokeswoman for the disabled. The mission of the Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts is to provide an opportunity for women of achievement who utilize wheelchairs to successfully educate and advocate for individuals with disabilities. Ms. Wheelchair Massachusetts is much more than a sash and a crown.