Return to Newsletter Archives

SPIRIT NEWSLETTER - June 2002

K-W Access-Ability A Community of Equal Access and Equal Opportunity

Staff Members

Executive Director

Chris Hodnett

Bookkeeper

Wayne Kaiser

P.H.I.R.S.T LINK Manager

Ronald Fleming

Social Work Exchange Student

Jolee Joseph

P.H.I.R.S.T LINK tutor

Joyce Nieuwesteeg

Recreation Programme Coordinator

Stephanie Schultz

Resource Information Person

Brad Ullner

Computer Acquisition Person

Dana Bentley

Contributors

Randy Barrett

Chris Hodnett

Ronald Fleming

Joyce Nieuwesteeg

Stephanie Schultz

Brad Ullner

Dana Bentley

Jolee Joseph

Linda Ryan

Christine Wahl

Erin Anderson

Lauren Circelli

Amanda Baumann

Contact Us

75 King St. South, Waterloo, Ontario, N2J 1P2

Phone (519) 885-6640, TTY (519) 885-4526, Fax (519) 885-4526

Hours Mon -Fri 9AM-5PM

kwaa@kwa.on.ca

www.kwa.on.ca

CHAIRMAN'S ADDRESS

Greetings to all our members. Spring is here, or so the Weather people say. As I looked out the window recently I saw what is hopefully the last winter blast of the year. Even so, things are moving right along down at the office. Our tax clinics have been busier than ever and we even have new staff in the office working on some old and new projects. For the past few months, one of the new/old staff, Stephanie Schultz has been busy keeping Chris and the rest of the office running smoothly. She has also been busy with recreation work and this newsletter.

Our Annual Wheelchair Ice Hockey fundraising game with Conestoga Rovers & Associates was held on April 13, at 6:30, at the new RIM park complex. It was a good chance not only to see some local athletes play hockey, but also to take in the sights of this amazing complex. We do however; have to some comments to make to the City of Waterloo concerning accessibility as a result of our visit.

Back to the Game, the K-W Rangers were triumphant again this year, defeating the CRA team 5 - 1. We wish to thank Frank Rovers, and the CRA Management and staff for their hospitality and generous donation to our agency.

Speaking of fundraising, we will be having our next meeting soon. We have goals we need to meet in order to pay for some of our programmes. Any ideas and offers of volunteer help are greatly appreciated.

Now that the weather is warmer, I hope, people are itching to get going and enjoy some more outdoor activities. So am I. So have fun and enjoy yourselves. The more active you are, the better you will feel. Happy Spring Everyone!!

-Randy Barrett

Executive Directors Address

It is great sadness that I begin by informing you of the recent death of Ronald W. Grant. As many of you know, Ron was a long time member of K-W Access-Ability and most recently staff person for the Self-Employment Programme.

Such feelings of loss and shock were expressed when people heard of Ron's death that we felt the need to hold a Memorial Service. Supported by Steve Comeau owner of the Westmount Funeral Home, who volunteered the use of their chapel, an informal Memorial Service was held. Friends and co workers took this opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings about Ron, through personal reflections and an array of poignant and amusing anecdotes. The service ended with Scottish music playing in the background and the sharing of Arrowroot Cookies, Ron's favourites

In addition to being a driving force as staff person in the Self-Employment Programme, Ron was a shining example of the dedication of volunteers, working with both the Canadian Mental Health Association Help Line and the John Howard Society Youth programme, as well as the Barrier Free Advisory Committee. He will be sorely missed!

If you have called the office over the past few weeks, you will have noticed a number of new voices answering the telephone. Beginning with the information area, Brad Ullner has accepted the challenge of the Resource Information Person position. After over a year and a half without anyone to fill this position, Brad has vowed to bring this area back to near Kathryn Cowan levels of enthusiasm and efficiency. So if you are having trouble finding some information, or if you just want to say hello, give Brad a call. Welcome aboard Brad, and Good Luck!!

Another addition is Stephanie Schultz. Stephanie worked with our summer programme last year. She continued working in the fall on a part-time basis with the modern dance/martial arts group, and will be helping us on a full time basis in a recreational capacity until the end of August. Stephanie has already begun meeting with members about the summer programme and we hope to get a big head start this year on planning and organizing.

The final addition to this staff crown is Dana Bentley, Computer Acquisition Person. We have been loaning computer to our members for over two years now and to date have placed over 60 computer systems in people's homes. Dana's role will be to expand and formalize this programme. Our sincere thanks to the Region of Waterloo and theGood Foundation, who have provided the funding for this Project.

We are extremely honoured and gratified to have a Social Work placement student, Jolee Joseph with us three days a week. . Jolee is the first exchange student between the University of Arizona and University of Waterloo, Renison College. Jolee will be involved in the initial planning meetings for the summer programme. Speaking of which I am pleased to announce that we have received funding to hire four students, three of whom will be working on the Summer Programme and one who will be working on a special project.

I look forward to seeing you all at our Annual General Meeting on June 20th. We have a very exciting programme in store for you, so don't miss it.

Chris Hodnett

P.H.I.R.S.T. LINK NEWS

Greetings once again! P.H.I.R.S.T. LINK continues to meet the needs of our student members through one-on-one tutoring, on-line technical support, workstation assessments, ADP training, and house calls.

Denis Henderson, P.H.I.R.S.T. LINK's computer repair person recently secured full-time employment at Peace Works, a local organization that supplies computer support services to agencies on a sliding scale. Despite the fact that he worked to a large extent behind the scenes, many of you knew Denis, and he will be missed. We wish you continued success Denis in all your future endeavours. It may take us a little longer to get computers out to eligible members now that Denis is gone, but we'll keep you posted as we put new systems in place.

Spring is just around the corner, so be sure to check out the Spring Tune Up information in this issue's Computer Corner. Also, our Internet columnist, Joyce Nieuwesteeg has a different sort of article this time. Happy Spring...and Happy Computing.

Now it's time to give your computer a spring tune up. The following are basic procedures that you should perform at least once a year.

Consider deleting files on your hard drive that are taking up space. Don't forget to check your e-mail programme as well, and delete any old mail that you don't need to keep. Take any icons that you don't use off of your desktop by highlighting them and hitting delete. (But only delete those icons that have a little arrow in the bottom left hand corner.)

Copy files that are on your floppy disks to newly formatted floppies. If you do this, your files will last much longer. Has your computer been slowing down? When was the last time that you ran the defragmenting utility? Begin by typing, "defrag" at a DOS prompt, or go to Disk Defragmenter off of your Start Menu. Choose Full defragmentation, and follow the prompts. Over-heated power supplies are one of the main causes of computer failure. Consider buying a can of compressed air from a computer or electronics shop to blow out all the dust that has accumulated in your computer's fan and power supply over the winter. With your computer turned off and unplugged, just fire the stream of air into the fan vent at the back of your computer to blow out the dust. If you haven't updated your virus checker in a long time, this would be the time to do it. A free one is available at www.grisoft.com

Finally, why not clean your computer screen and consider adding spring wallpaper to your desktop. Your computer will appreciate the tune up, and work more efficiently for you.

Ronald B. Fleming

TO TRAVEL OR NOT TO TRAVEL: THAT IS THE QUESTION

I was recently discussing with a friend the issue of travelling with a disability and all the planning that is necessary. She thought this might be a good topic for a newsletter article.

Over the past six years it has become increasingly clear to me how complicated travelling can be if you use a power wheelchair. You need to choose a destination where there are wheelchair-accessible accommodations, tourist attractions, restaurants, washrooms, and entertainment venues. I am sure many of you have encountered the following situation.

You phoned a location, perhaps a restaurant or theatre, to ask if it was wheelchair-accessible. You were told it was, so you decided to go. When you got there, you discovered that, although the main area may have been on one level, there was a huge step at the entrance, which your wheelchair could not climb. Or perhaps the entrance was accessible, but when you needed to use the facilities, you discovered a huge step at the washroom's entrance. No one wants to have these problems, especially while on vacation.

As you gain experience in this area, you learn that asking if a certain location is "wheelchair-accessible" is not enough. Everyone defines the term differently, depending on his or her perspective. What you need to do is break the question down into several more detailed questions. Ask if there are any stairs at all leading to the entrance. If the person you are asking sounds unsure, ask them to check while you wait on the phone. Ask if the location is all on one level. If it is not, ask if the washrooms are on the main level and ask if there are any steps in front of the washroom's entrance. Again, if the person on the other end sounds unsure, ask them to check while you wait. Eventually you will learn which questions to ask to obtain accurate information about whether or not a location is accessible enough to meet your needs. A traveller who has a disability will have to go through this process when arranging a travel destination, accommodations, entertainment venues, restaurants, etc. Gathering this information is a time consuming, arduous task, but it can help you prevent situations like the one mentioned above. If I wanted to travel, I would want to be sure that my holiday was as hassle-free as possible. So I would try to think of every possible problem I could encounter, and come up with a possible solution. However, some problems are harder to solve than others.

Many people need attendant services. If such a person wants to travel, he or she must arrange to have these services available. If a person arranges for an attendant to accompany him, he is responsible for paying the attendant's expenses, such as transportation to the destination site, accommodations, and food. How can a person with a disability, who might also have very little income, afford this? Yet if a person cannot manage without attendant services, does this mean that he or she can never take a vacation?

Some bus lines allow a person with a disability to bring an attendant free of charge. The traveller must apply for this service in advance. However, a bus trip may not be appropriate for some travellers with disabilities. A bus trip means a much longer journey than a plane trip and, if the journey includes one or more overnight stays at hotels, this can greatly increase the total cost of the trip.

Some airlines offer a 50% discount for an attendant travelling with someone who has a disability. This discount can make a big difference in the total cost of the trip but the traveller is still responsible for the attendant's accommodations, food, and all other expenses while on the trip.

It seems to be common practice for the airlines to seat a traveller with a disability near the window. While this is supposed to be a safety measure in case of an emergency, the inference here is that people with disabilities do not need to get out of their seats to use the facilities. For some people, this is not the case. However, if the traveller uses crutches, for example, it is difficult, if not impossible, to "climb" over other passengers to get to the aisle.

When an airline receives a request from a traveller to have an aisle seat to prevent this problem, the traveller is often asked to provide a doctor's note explaining the reason for the request. This can be done quickly and easily but your doctor could charge an administrative fee for providing such a note. When the traveller actually approaches the door of the facilities, he will find that, even though there is a wheelchair symbol on the door, the washroom is anything but wheelchair-accessible. While a person using crutches does not necessarily need a wheelchair accessible washroom, he often needs a bit of extra room to manoeuver, and a place to put his crutches. This can become a big problem. There is a way around this issue, though.

If the traveller has a long flight in store, he can choose to fly to a location halfway between his departure location and his final destination, and continue the flight later that day or the next day. If the entire flight is seven hours long, the halfway point should be about 3.5 hours and this might eliminate the need to use the facilities on board the plane. It also allows for a chance to rest up and not get stiff and sore from sitting in one position for too long. However, this could cost more than one longer flight going directly to your destination.

If a person wants to take a cruise, he must consider the ports of call that are included in the cruise. If the traveller wants to "see the world" he will likely want to get off the ship. At some locations, this is not always easy for a person in a wheelchair. Sometimes the ship cannot dock and must anchor away from shore. In such cases, a tender, or small boat will transport passengers to shore. Getting into one of these smaller boats with a power wheelchair can be difficult. Another factor to consider is whether or not a power wheelchair can manoeuver around the area where the ship has docked. The best way to deal with these situations is to make inquiries about wheelchair-accessibility of the different ports, and whether the ship will be docking or tendering passengers to shore. If the traveller uses a power wheelchair, he has to have a battery charger as well. This means either bringing his own battery charger, or renting one at the destination. If he goes to another country, he has to consider that this country might have a different electrical situation than will work with his battery charger.

There are no easy answers to these issues, but that does not mean there are no solutions. If the traveller has a friend at the destination site, he can ask the friend to make some inquiries and gather some information on accessibility and services for people with disabilities. If the traveller does not know anyone at the destination site, he can contact organizations dealing with such issues. He can also search for information on the Internet. There are people who do not have disabilities who automatically assume that a person with a disability is incapable of doing the day-to-day things in life, let alone travel. They might try to discourage you from travelling for fear that you might encounter difficulties. It is true that having a disability can create difficulties in life, but do not let those difficulties stop you from doing what you want to do. With better weather just around the corner, many of you might be thinking about taking a trip. With proper planning, which should begin well in advance of your trip, you can prevent many of the difficulties mentioned here. I hope that all your plans fall smoothly into place and that you enjoy yourself. In the next issue of the newsletter, I will once again write about computer-related topics. If you have any suggestions, please call me at the office or e-mail me at jn1@kwa.on.ca.

Joyce Nieuwesteeg

The Recreation Beat

Hi it's Stephanie Schultz again. I am back at Access-Ability not only teaching the dance class once again but I have taken a position first as the Information Resource Person and now as the Recreation Programme Coordinator. These new jobs have been interesting to say the least. During my initial employment here I had the task of rearranging the office. With Chris and the help of others lifting furniture we managed to give the office a whole new look, including a new entrance, an archives of accessibility history and a park bench out in the hall. Many people entering the office have defiantly noticed the changes, and as far as I know the change is a positive one.

I have been so pleased to be able to come back to Access-Ability to work with some of the members from the summer programme and offer winter and spring recreation events. So far we have been able to get bowling back into the swing of things and the dance group. And we have started a social lunch club that meets every two weeks at various restaurants in the area. I hope that these events along with others continue into the coming weeks.

I encourage those of you interested in our upcoming summer programme and perhaps to give a lending hand to plan this year's programme to give me a call at the office or come talk to me when you're in the area.

Stephanie Schultz

Information Corner

Hi. My name is Brad Ullner. Many of you may have met me through my previous involvement as a PHIRST LINK volunteer tutor or on the agency Board of Directors. I have been involved with K-W Access-Ability since October 1998. What keeps life interesting is the ability to move on to new challenges, and as of April 15, I am thrilled to be joining the staff of K-W Access-Ability in the position of Resource Information Person. I am sure that I will meet many more of you in this new capacity. (I've telephoned a few of you already.)

In my new position, I look forward to learning even more about various disability issues and to being an additional resource for you. Advocacy has been a personal interest of mine for a number of years. Before joining the staff of K-W Access-Ability, I was Chairperson of the K-W Barrier Free Advisory Committee. This is a committee comprised of agency reps and people with disabilities who advocate for greater physical access in city facilities and on the streets of Kitchener and of Waterloo. They also keep both Councils informed on issues that impact people with disabilities. I have also completed research about disability policy in various countries as a requirement for my Master of Arts degree in Political Science, which I received in October 2001. Ask me sometime about employment opportunities for people with disabilities in Sweden. I look forward to meeting many of you as we journey together to try to answer many of your questions. Call or drop by the office and say hello.

Brad Ullner

New Computing Staff Message

My name is Dana Bentley and I have joined on as the new Computer Acquisition Person. I will be trying to locate new, bigger, and better sources of computers for KW Access Ability. I have a very diverse background, from an English degree to a diploma in Electronics Engineering. I have worked assembling metal detectors, doing sales and support for computers and factory equipment. I look forward to the challenges of this new job, as well as the new people I will be meeting. We will be having more computers coming available shortly, so if you require a system, please contact us at 885-6640 and we will do our best to get one out to you!

Dana Bentley

Foreign Exchange Message

Hello, My name is Jolee Joseph. I am a foreign exchanged student in the college of Human Services at Arizona State University. I am in the social work programme and I am a senior entering my field practice this fall. I am a member of the largest Indian tribe in United State who live in northern Arizona. My people are called Navajo (Dineh) meaning the people, which we prefer to be called. I consider myself as a modern traditional Dineh who practices the traditional cultural beliefs and values of my people and also live and practice the dominant European culture. I speak my native language fluently and I am looking forward to returning to my home community to work with my people with a degree in social work. There is a great need for people who can understand and relate to the culture, values and beliefs of my people to bridge the cross over of the western medical practices and the traditional native medicine.

I live in Phoenix, Arizona, six hours away from my family and home to attend college. So, when people ask me how I like living so far away from my family, I tell them it really is no difference. However, the culture here is different and it is cold here! I am used to 100 plus degrees by now in the states! I hope to learn while here about the social services of Canada and get a general over all idea about the types of community resources available and what K-W Access-Ability services have to offer its client population.

Jolee Joseph

Afternoon Crafts

The craft group with instruction by Mary Culliford has been extending their creative talents making ceramic pieces, and preparing spring flowerpots. We thank Mary for all the hard work she puts into making this group a success. We would also like to encourage others who are interested in crafts to participate. The group runs every Friday afternoon from 2 to 4 pm. It seems only fitting that we should take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank all the volunteers who have worked with our agency over the past year.

Recreation

Lauren Circelli, Erin Anderson, Amanda Bauman, Aaron Shipway, Mary Culliford, Megan Gagner

P.H.I.R.S.T. LINK

Darryl Brocheau, Pamela Johnson, Alaric Clark, William Pensaert, Pejman Maralani, Brad Ullner,

Ann Reilly

Internet

Kay Beifer

Messages from our Volunteers

My name is Amanda Baumann and I am a student at Wilfrid Laurier University. I started volunteering with the bowling league, which runs on Tuesday mornings as part of a field placement for my Clinical Psychology class. This has been an incredible experience for me. I have learned far more than I would have imagined and have made some great friends in doing so. I would like to thank all of those who I have worked with this term who have made this a wonderful experience for me. Mike, Starr, Linda and Rhea were the regular bowlers and I would like to thank them for all the laughs and fun times. Bowling every Tuesday has truly been the highlight of my weeks and I will miss it greatly. I look forward to continuing to volunteer with KW Access Ability in the coming school year!

Amanda Baumann

My name is Erin, and (in case we haven't met already) I am a new volunteer at K-W Access-Ability, I've been involved in a few of the diverse programmes that you all enjoy. I have been to luncheons, dance classes, swimming, and crafts; it has been fun getting to know all of you active and spirited members. The events are a great way to meet new friends and to socialize with long-time pals, so I hope I can count on seeing you all over the next few weeks!

Erin Anderson

Hi, my name is Lauren Circelli and I have been volunteering here at K-W Access-Ability since January 2002. I am a student at Wilfrid Laurier University and completing this placement as part of a credit for my Clinical Psychology course. I have been working with many people over the past few months, helping them develop their computer skills, as well as attempting to blow out egg yolks as means of our Easter craft experience. Which was an adventure in itself!!! I would just like to send out my thanks to all those that I have met over the past few months who have made this experience extremely memorable for me

Lauren Circelli

A Message of Thanks

Access-Ability has been very fortunate to be part of a volunteer placement programme with Wilfred Laurier University. Students in the Psychology programme are required to volunteer with a local organization for the semester to gain hands on experience in the community. We have been fortunate to have four of those students with us this past winter.

Many thanks goes to Erin Anderson who has come out with the winter recreation group to social lunch outings and has assisted in teaching some tae-bo boxing moves at our weekly dance group and Lauren Circelli who has been assisting with computer tutoring and crafts. As well Amanda Baumann who assisted with bowling and some lunch outings, and Aaron Shipway who has become known as "craft boy" for helping out with crafts and some of our social lunch outings. These students have been a big help to me and the members have enjoyed their company. Thanks to all of them for their assistance.

It is with pleasure that we also mention Heather Granger a placement student from Georgian College in Orillia, Ontario; this is also where Jodie DeGonzague our Summer Recreation Supervisor from last year is going to school.

Heather was with us for a week assisting with various recreational events including bowling, shopping, dance and crafts. Heather is working towards a diploma in recreation therapy and is looking forward to finishing her programme in the next year.

STRIKE!!!

Once again the bowling group has started up at Sheraton Four Points hotel and the members of this league are in full swing! Each week our bowler's goal is to increase their scores as well as to have some fun. This group has put serious effort into making their bowling games a success.

Amanda Baumann, one of our Laurier student volunteers has been a big part of this bowling group with her assistance and encouragement every week. We thank Amanda for the great job she has done with this group and hope she comes away from this experience with a feeling of positive contribution.

A Word from Linda

We have a bowling team that bowls at Four Points Hotel on King Street in Kitchener. We use the Recreation Centre in the lower level of the hotel. There are five people on the team. Recently, one of our bowling members Pearl Clarke was ill, but she is better now and back with us. Mike is the only male bowler on our team; Starr is a big helper taking the balls to the bowling ramp for people to roll. Rhea is our newest bowler. She just started about a month ago. I am the scorekeeper.

We have a University student by the name of Amanda who is helping us. She is from Wilfrid Laurier University, and one of her courses requires her to volunteer to get credit towards her course. She is very helpful to our group. We would like to say "Thank You" to Amanda for all her help in the past few months.

Personally I like meeting with the other team members each week bowling and talking with them. I haven't bowled in 13 years and it's great to get back into it. I hope that we continue to bowl each week.

Linda Ryan

Update on Dance

The Dance/Boxing group is now in its 3rd season, and we have moved locations. Thanks to Rita at Union Lane for opening up the community room to us to run our classes. Once again we have upped the expectations for this group, adding Tae-Chi and some karate moves to the class. These students have more energy then ever before. I feel very honoured to be able to work with this group. They challenge themselves with difficult routines and strive to perfect each and every movement and exercise. They don't know the meaning of the words "give up", and this inspires me. Not only are they reaping the rewards of physical activity and learning about various aspects of performance art, but they are also promoting therapeutic wellness for themselves by participating. I thank everyone for their hard work once again and hope they continue to enjoy the benefits of this class.

Stephanie Schultz

One Dancer's Message:

I met Stephanie this past summer when K-W Access-Ability had it's summer programme. Due to work commitments, etc. I was only able to attend one specific activity on a consistent basis, that being "Dance." I have always loved music and the ability of our bodies to move to the rhythm of it. This particular form of expression has no "right" or "wrong" to it. It gives you the freedom to just "BE". I am finding, as I get older, my body is fighting me, as I try to maintain the level of independence I have acquired during my lifetime. This is why I also enjoy the stretching and relaxation that Stephanie has incorporated into the programme as well. I find that the specific steps and formations that are required is challenging because it works my brain to remember things in sequence. All this concentration, therefore, doesn't leave any time for thoughts of other stresses in my life.

I have so much fun doing this and it is for the most part because of Stephanie. She is so easy-going, and light-hearted. It is quite obvious to me that she enjoys teaching us as much as we enjoy learning. On a personal note, Stephanie has gone far beyond her job description to give us access to all sorts of recreational opportunities and for that I will be forever grateful to her. So, if you have been looking for a fun activity to do and the only requirement is that you forget your worries for a couple of hours once a week, then maybe this is for you. We are currently meeting Thursday afternoons, in the Community Room at Participation House, Union Lane. Hope to see you there.

Christine Wahl

SPRING FOOD DRIVE!

The Food Bank of Waterloo Region sponsored a spring food drive to provide food for 39 928 emergency food hampers, these hampers help to feed 22 068 different individuals in the region. Staff and members donated 59lbs of food!! Thanks to Genevieve Henry for so kindly putting items in the donation box we had in our office. We encourage you to donate items to the food bank year round. The following are most in need:

-Peanut Butter -Cold Cereal, -Dry Pasta -Tomato Sauce, -Canned Veggies -Canned Fruit, -Canned Stews

E-Donation can be made by visiting the Food Banks website at: www.foodbankwloo.org

Happy Donating!!!

Wheelchair Hockey News

The Brian Parker Memorial Hockey Challenge took place on Saturday, April 13, 2002. All the folks who attended were able to see the all the wonders (and a few of the problems) with the new RIM Park in Waterloo. The team from K-W Access-Ability was once again victorious in the wheelchair hockey game, although the game was not a shutout thanks to a CRA goal, assisted on by Frank Rovers. Following the games, food and beverages were enjoyed by all. A number of the CRA hockey players found the challenge game to be a "hair-raising experience", as members of the losing squad had their heads shaved. Everyone who came had a good time. Thanks again to the folks at Conestoga Rovers Associates for their continuing support of K-W Access-Ability.

WARNING: ALLERGY ALERT

We now have a new office policy around wearing colognes, perfumes or other fragrances in the office. We would ask that you refrain from doing this as a number our members are highly allergic. Thank you for your consideration.

WHO'S NEWS???

We would like to inform everyone that just recently Edward Fraruzel acquired his Wild Turkey Hunter Education Certificate. Edward wrote the exam in March and is now certified to go hunting for Wild Turkeys!!!

Congratulations Edward!

UP COMING EVENTS

K-W Access-Ability Annual Meeting is scheduled for Thursday June 20th at 7pm at the Country Hills Community Centre. For more information or to arrange transportation please contact Brad at 885-6640.

Wheelchair Clinic

The annual Wheel Chair Clinic sponsored by the Ontario March of Dimes, K-W Access-Ability and Shoppers Home Health Care was held Monday, June 3rd in the centre court of Waterloo Town Square. The clinic began at 10:30am and ran till 4:30pm. For anyone having mechanical issues with their chairs or wondering about steps towards keeping their chair in good condition, this clinic was the place to be.

INDEPENDENT LIVING AWARDS 2002

The 4th Annual Independent Living Awards acknowledging the positive changes towards greater independence for persons with disabilities will be held Wednesday, June 12th 2002 at the Country Hills Community Centre, 5:30-8:00 p.m. We encourage you to attend this event! Our own Kathryn Cowan has been nominated in the category of Influential Advocate. Come on out and support her!

The Spring 2002 Edition of the Access Files is now available.

This is the Newsletter from Inclusion Services at the City of Kitchener services for people with disabilities. Read about new opportunities for kids to attend integrated camps, and details about the K-W Golf Committee's fundraising efforts for accessible golf carts. The Inclusion Services Department also serves the City of Waterloo. The Access Files can be sent to you! Call 741-2224 or 741-2385 (TTY) or email barrierfree@city.kitchener.on.ca to be included on the mailing list.

Learn Save

Learn Save is a program to help low-income earners save money. Under this program, people who qualify open a bank account and receive a $2 credit for every dollar they save for up to three years. Up to $1500 can be saved by an individual. Therefore, a participant in the program may have up to $4500 for opportunities for education or starting a small business. Training and information on banking, budgeting, debt and credit are a part of this program. Participants will also receive support from program staff. Eligible people should be between 21-65 years old and cannot be attending school full-time. Income levels for qualified applicants vary according to family size. The program is being tried out across Canada. In Kitchener-Waterloo, Lutherwood-CODA looks after the program. Call De Rail at Lutherwood-CODA at 743-2460 ext. 411 for an application form and to find out about the next introductory information session.

Up, Up and Away!

Youth Flight Canada is a Registered Canadian Charity and they have been instructing young people to fly gliders for forty years. But what is gliding? Also calling soaring, it is often referred to as pure flight, for gliders, or sailplanes, although built like a powered aircraft, have no motor. Gravity is the engine, and altitude is the fuel. They fly forward by going down hill, like a bicycle with no pedals, but down a very gentle hill indeed, making forward progress of 20 to as much as 60 kilometers for each kilometer they sink.

If Aviation were a language, gliding would be its poetry. The art and the challenge lie in tapping the energy of rising air currents to lift the sailplane faster than it is sinking. With the right glider, the right pilot and the right conditions a sailplane can fly faster, farther and higher than any bird, and many powered aircraft. Most can attain speeds of 250 to 300 km/hr. The distance record for gliders is over 2,400 km., and the altitude record is almost 50,000 feet.

The dream begins in mid-July when they will have use of a glider with special hand controls. For two weeks they will give riders, and for those who have adequate upper body strength, we will offer flying lessons. Yes, they can become Pilots, - even Instructors!

"When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return" Leonardo Da Vinci.

For more information concerning this exciting opportunity, please contact Stephanie at the office.

Have you heard about the PAL Card?

The Personal Attendant for Leisure) Card allows a personal attendant to accompany someone with a disability to assist them to participate in designated City of Kitchener Community Services Department programmes..

With the PAL Card, the cardholder still pays all regular programme fees, however, the attendant will not be charged an additional fee. The PAL card does not normally reduce the price of programmes or events for card holders, however at the Kitchener Auditorium, the PAL Card gives those who must sit in designated seating the right to purchase tickets at same price as the least expensive tickets. Fee assistance is also available. Application forms are available at the K-W Access-Ability office.

Fee Assistance

The Leisure Access Card allows residents of Kitchener who feel that they cannot afford the registration fee, to participate in leisure activities offered by the City of Kitchener. The Card can be used to purchase a book of ten swimming/aquatics tickets or a summer swim pass. Interested people should submit an application two weeks prior to registering for the programme or activity that you wish to participate in. Applications for the Leisure Access Card are available in our office, at Community Centres and pools in Kitchener and on the 7th floor of Kitchener City Hall. Applicants will need to submit the application as well as supporting documents (such as pay stubs or statements from social assistance).

For information about fee assistance in Waterloo, contact Irene O'Toole at the Adult Recreation Centre at 579-6930. She interviews applicants over the phone and arranges for subsidies and/or payment on a case-by-case basis. In Waterloo, Minor Sports are also eligible programmes.

Sobey's

We are now collecting tapes from Sobey's grocery stores. Sobeys has a programme similar to the Zehrs one. so if you shop at Sobeys, or know anyone who does, please save the tapes and donate them to the agency. We would appreciate it.

Another feature of the Tape Saver programme with Sobey's is that there are boxes located in the stores where people can leave their tapes for designated charities. Our Agency has a box at the Weber and Northfield location in Waterloo and hopes to have boxes at the other Sobey's locations in town soon. We need people who shop at (or live nearby) Sobey's locations to regularly check these boxes for us. If you would be willing to help out with this, please contact the office.

IN MEMORIAM

On Sunday, March 3, 2002, Ronald W. Grant passed away. He was a long-time member of K-W Access-Ability and most recently, a staff member.During his employment at K-W Access-Ability, Ron was the Coordinator for the Self-Employment Programme. He saw his work not as a job but as a chance to help others. His presence in the office was like a breath of fresh air. His smile and laughter were contagious, and his sense of humour could make people forge all their troubles, even if only temporarily. He was a warm, compassionate, caring person who loved his family, friends, and his cat. He had a passion for photography and took pictures for a number of agency functions.

Ron volunteered his time with several organizations, including the Barrier-Free Advisory Committee, the Distress Centre, and the John Howard Society, just to name a few. "Ronald W. Grant, Esquire," as he often referred to himself with a chuckle, was many things to many people, and all those whose lives he touched will sadly miss him.

Joyce Nieuwesteeg

My sincere condolences on the passing of Ron W. Grant, I am just shocked with this news. Ron was the Man!! He had so many qualities about him; he lived his life to the fullest. A kind generous person, with so much enthusiasm. I was grateful to work alongside Ron; he was helping me to develop my resume. I will remember his generosity and his humour, and the "arrowroot cookies" only when they were available to have!!! "Ron your heart and soul are here and will remain here at K-W Access-Ability and your "angel" is in heaven! "We will remember you!" Thanks Ron for touching our lives! "Peace be with you always"!

Wanda L. MacKinnon

A Shared Memory

On March 27th a number of people spoke at the Memorial Service for Ron W. Grant. Ron was a member of K-w Access-Ablility as well as a volunteer and gentle person. Over the years I have had many contacts with Ron. the two of us attended the Barrier Free Advisory Committee and the Education and Assessment Sub-Committee's and various other "meetings". Ron was an extremely involved and dedicated community volunteer.

I would like to share my personal favourite Ron story with you. The first day outside with my new power wheelchair was (I now can admit) quite an "experience". I confided to Ron my "nervousness" at the time about crossing the streets! We were at Waterloo Town Centre on Regina Street, where after a meeting, we were having lunch at Waterloo Town Square, which is not far really!

Ron (remember) was a short and very round man. He walked right out into the middle of Regina Street AND stopped traffic (a crossing guard extraordinaire, bar none) so that I could cross the street more easily. And yes, I did thank him!

Sue Morgan

IN MEMORIAM

On February 18th 2002, Peter Ciszewski, late husband of Phylis Ciszewski and father of Mary Ciszewski passed away. Born on May 29th 1904, Mr Ciszewski would have been 98 years old this year.

He was an avid gardener, who cared for over 250 rose bushes in the back yard of the family home.

Mary remembers him as a wonderful father and a beautiful person. She will miss him dearly. Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with Mary in her loss at this most difficult time.

NOMINATIONS FOR THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF K-W ACCESS-ABILITY 2002-2003

Nominations are now being accepted for the Board of Directors of K-W Access-Ability. If you wish to serve on the Board or wish to nominate someone for the Board, please fill out the nomination form below. All nominations must be submitted in writing and must be received at our office no later than Friday, June 14th 2002 at 5:00pm. No nominations will be accepted after this time nor during the Annual General Meeting.

This form should be returned to:

K-W Access-Ability, Waterloo Town Square, Concourse #7, 75 King Street South, Waterloo, Ontario, N2J 1P2

I __________________________ nominate

________________________________ for a position on the K-W Access-Ability Board of Directors.

Candidate Information: NAME___________________________________________________________

ADDRESS________________________________________________________

PHONE____________________________________________________

Nominator Information: NAME___________________________________________________________

ADDRESS________________________________________________________

PHONE_____________________________________________________

Nominated by (please Print): ____________________ Signature: _____________

Seconded by (please Print): ____________________ Signature: __________________ I (nominees signature),

__________________________agree to be nominated for a position on the K-W Access-Ability Board of Directors. Nominations must be made and seconded by members of K-W Access-Ability.

Each nomination form should be accompanied by a short biography of the nominee.

***Nominee should be in attendance at the Annual General Meeting, Thursday, June 20th, 002, 7:00pm at the Country Hills Community Centre.

Return to Newsletter Archives