Newsletter for 10.21.10

DATO NOTES

A newsletter of the Disabilities Assistance Trust Organization

10. 21.10

Meeting was held despite low turn out on the 11^th.

I was some what disappoint by the lack of interests shown by the work that DATO has done for those whom we helped, I thought people would want to be part of this effort. Only three people was in attendance at our last meeting, some had legitimate excuses for not attending, but it does discourages those of us who do actually care about serving the people we try to serve when those who we help shows no gratitude by not showing up at our meetings. We meet just four times a year (quarterly) so its not to difficult to at least show up and participate in this group. It also shows a lack of respect to our efforts. I don't like having to start a newsletter in this way but I needed to get this off my chest, some of us were willing to stick our necks out on this I think showing a little gratitude isn't to hard to ask in return by being part of this organization. Okay, I'm done ranting now! Ha ha!

With that said we didn't have enough officers present during the meeting to vote on some issues, but nevertheless, I had to decide on my own on issues that could not wait, for example appointing new officers to willing to serve for yet another year, one new officer the new Vice President in charge of our fundraising activities, Earl Hubbord is replacing Debbie Braster who resigned due to medical issues.

Other officers include: Patty Dean Senior Vice President, Tom Eads, Treasurer, Celia Waalke`s-Duff, Secretary. We had to submit our annual tax exempt paper work for the state by the end of this month, and our next meeting won't be until January. So, I asked those members if they be willing to serve as officers for one year, they agreed to do so after the meeting ended when they became available to be asked. Thanks for willing to serve guys.

Rummage sale this weekend October 23^rd.

It is fortunate that I was able to talk to my officers whom weren't there at the meeting, afterwords to get their consent on some key expenses for the rummage sale, like placing the Classified ad in the Peninsula Daily News, and the cost of the doughnuts and coffee which we will be offering to the shoppers for free.

The PDN gave us a sales kit complete with signs to use, so no need to buy additional signs.

Last year we made close to $650.00 in sales, let's see this year we can meet or beat it!

I'll need volunteers to help set up and take down, also willing to mine the store for a few hours at a time.

To Spaghetti feed or not to spaghetti feed that the question. ,.

When this was first proposed two of the officers that were to plan this out are no longer part of the group, so next time we meet we have to see if we want to put this on or bag it. Also, next time we will have to submit our e-postcard to the IRS since our fiscal year ends on December 31, and we have to review our bylaws for the year as well, the only changes that I see that needs to be made in them are the list of officers. If any wish to get a copy of our bylaws see me.

Put this on your calendar and make plans accordingly, next meeting will be on January 10^th at 2PM we might need to change the time we meet so more can participate so email me or call me to tell me when is a good time for everyone, would 3PM or 4pm work?

DATO newsletter for 7.13.10
 

DATO NOTES

A newsletter of the Disabilities Assistance Trust Organization

7.13.10

 

 

SNAP Director attends DATO meeting Suggest how DATO can help with Sprout film festival, and ask for sponsorship from DATO.

 

Despite there was not a quorum of officers present during the July meeting of DATO, which only two officers was present, three officers were needed to approve any actions during the meeting. The meeting was held on Monday was an informational meeting. And the Director of SNAP, Janell DeMatteo came and spoke on the up coming Sprout Film Festival slated in October. For the last two years DATO held a disability awareness day during October, and provided videos for people to watch during the event. But since SNAP is hoping to make the film festival an annual affair, along with their plan to promote access, this gets DATO off the hook on this regard. Mind you DATO was doing the awareness days upon request to do so by others who saw what we done when we first held the awareness day event the first time around. I was thinking at the time once was enough, then DATO was asked to do the event again last year, we agreed to do so. Now that SNAP has stepped in, and plan and do basically what we were trying to do in regards to promoting access, and showing the films, I say let them have at it. We can get back to our main mission raising money for our group to help those who are in need. Discussion followed with the prospect of having a booth during the festival, and we can sell our candy bars there, along with information about DATO. They also requested a donation to the film festival and to become one of their sponsors. I suggested that DATO pledges $100. There was a consensus from those who were attending the meeting that we should donate the $100. so we can have a booth there during the festival, and have our name listed as a sponsor in their advertisement efforts. However, there wasn't a quorum present to vote on this matter, they need a decision by October. I told the Director that I will email the officers who weren't present and get their feed back, and okay to go ahead and make the donation of $100.

 

Speaking of which, Karla our secretary resigned her membership from DATO citing health issues, so we are once again without a secretary. So if any members out there be willing to serve as secretary until October's elections of new officers please let me know.

Summer activities: Debbie Braster, and Earl Hubbard will be selling our candy at the Safeway on Lincoln, August 6 & 7^th, and 13^th & 14^th, and Earl volunteered to sell the candy at the fair during the fair days. Anyone wishing to help with either those candy bar sales see either Debbie Braster, or Earl Hubbard.

 

Spaghetti feed is still on...

Karla, and Debbie was suppose to have been working on a plan for a proposed spaghetti feed however, Karla quit and Debbie was left to plan the dinner alone, but during the meeting, Earl Hubbard stepped in and said he be glad to assist in the planning of the dinner, so the dinner is back on the table, it should be held sometime after January, after the rummage sale we are planning to have again in October, and being involved with the film festival, January would be a good time to hold the meal, plan for 50 or more to start with.

 

Rummage sale will be October 23^rd Saturday from 8AM- 3PM. Letters of solicitation will be mailed out to key donors, and businesses in town via email or snail mail in September.

 

Next meeting will be October 11^th at 2PM at the Terrace Apt. Community room.

Decide to serv GCDE another term
With much consideration and even praying I decided to sign up for one more term on the Governors Committee on Disability Issues and employment (GCDE). I believe we are all given some God given talents and abilities to use them to serve the better good of our communities while we still roam this earth. And perhaps give us opportunities to share with others our hope, and faith in God, and our fellow humanbeings. If its God's will for me to serve on this board for another three years it will happen, if not then I go down the road to other avenues of service.

News from Olympia

Timberland Library has a great free program coming up this Saturday, May 22nd, at 5:30pm.  Authors and editors of the anthology, "My Baby Rides the Short Bus: the Unabashedly Human Experience of Raising Kids with Disabilities," will read essays and answer questions at an afterhours event at the Olympia Timberland Library from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters Roma Agny and Heidi Weber will interpret the readings. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing. The stories in the collection reflect the realities of parenting children with disabilities. They offer strength, understanding and some laughs as well to parents of "special needs" kids. The book's 30 contributors range from professional to novice writers. Their personal experiences provide authenticity and an antidote to stories that idealize, ridicule, or objectify disabled children and their parents. Seven of the writers will read at the event. They are: Chloe Eudaly, Alex Winninghof, Nina Packebush, Kerry Cohen, Andrea Givens, Sarah Talbot (also an editor), and Yantra Bertelli (also an editor). For more information, call the library at (360) 352-0595 or go to www.TRL.org <http://www.trl.org/> . --Kelsey I. Smith Adult Services Librarian Phone 360-352-0595 <mailto:ksmith@trlib.org>

Location:

Olympia Timberland Library, 313 8th Avenue SE

  

Wheelchair and Ambulatory Cycling on Saturday, April 17, 2010 at

Wheelchair and Ambulatory Cycling on Saturday, April 17, 2010 at Magnuson Park in Seattle.

 

Brought to you FREE by Seattle Parks and Recreation - Specialized Programs, Outdoors For All, Seattle Adaptive Sports and the US Paralympics.

 

This a great place to come learn more about Paralympic sports and meet other people who enjoy being active in sports. All ages are welcome.

 

Are you a person with a *physical disability or know someone?
Are you a school coach looking for more information on how to get a student involved in adaptive sports?
Are you a recreational, physical, or occupational therapist looking for activities to introduce to your clients?
 

There will be opportunities to get fitted in a cycle for your best abilitiy and ride along the lake trail at Magnuson Park.

 

 

 bikes, adaptive cycles or tandems. Outdoors for All has over 50 adaptive cycles in its fleet. Come learn about rides in your area with others who enjoy getting out and being active. Adaptive aspects include:

Handcycles for individuals with no or limited leg movement
Three and four wheel cycles for those who need more stability
Children's hand and foot powered cycles
Tandem cycles for individuals who want a guide while riding
Hand and foot cranked cycles exercising your whole body
Standard cycles
 

 

For more information about Outdoors For All, visit www.outdoorsforall.org 

Public forum on Independant living

The State Independent Living Council (SILC) will be hosting a number of public forums across the state to gather input for the 2011-2013 State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL).   The SPIL is an “blueprint” of the goals and activities that Centers for Independent Living, the State Independent Living Council and others will  attempt to follow in the next three years to promote independent living for people with disabilities in Washington state.

 

We need to the public’s assistance to help us with ideas on how to craft the SPIL.  These forums are  chance for you to come talk with the SILC about issues such as housing, transportation, transition, de-institutionalization, assistive technology, outreach to underserved populations, and CIL expansion in unserved areas. 

 

Please contact Rob Honan:  honanrw@dshs.wa.gov or 360-725-3695 with questions or accommodations requests.  ASL and CART will be provided at all events.  Spanish language translation will be provided at the Pasco Forum.  

 

If you are unable to attend, all events will be available by CART-stream (you will need access to the Internet) and by conference call. 

·         CART Stream:   http://www.streamtext.net/text.aspx?event=SILC.

·         Conference Call Information: (877) 216-1555 Passcode:  815648

 

You may also send information, comments or questions to Rob Honan at the above email address (honanrw@dshs.wa.gov) or by regular mail:  PO Box 45343, Olympia WA 98504-5343.  Or by video phone to Executive Assistant Barbara Hathaway:   (VP) 1-866-890-4539

 

Attached is the amended  2008-2010 State Plan for Independent Living for your review.

 

• April 21, 2010 (Tacoma) - Public Forum
       TACID
       6315 S. 19th Street
       Tacoma, Washington
       April 21  6:00pm - 8:00pm
        Public Announcement (pdf)
• April 22, 2010 (Seattle) - Public Forum
       Department Services for the Blind
       3411 S. Alaska
       Seattle, Washington
       April 22  10:00am - noon
        Public Announcement (pdf)
• April 22, 2010 (Bellingham) - Public Forum
       Whatcom Community College
       Syre Bldg, Room #108
      Bellingham, Washington
       April 22  6:00pm - 8:00pm
        Public Announcement (pdf)
• April 23, 2010 (Bellingham): Quarterly Meeting
       St. Luke’s Community Health Education Center
       3333 Squalicum Parkway
       Bellingham, Washington
       April 23  8:30am - 2:00pm
        Public Announcement (pdf)
        Meeting Agenda (pdf)
• May 11, 2010 (Vancouver) - Public Forum
       Housing Authority
       2500 Main Street
       Vancouver, Washington
       May 11  6:30pm to 8:30pm
        Public Announcement (pdf)
• May 12, 2010 (Ellensburg) - Public Forum
       Hal Holmes Center
       209 N. Ruby Street
       Ellensburg, Washington
       May 12  6:00pm to 8:00pm
        Public Announcement (pdf)
• May 13, 2010 (Pasco) - Public Forum
       Columbia Basin College (Gjerde Center/ Student Union)
       2600 North 20th Street
       Pasco, Washington
       May 13  6:00pm to 8:00pm
        Public Announcement (pdf)
• May 14, 2010 (Spokane) - Public Forum
       West Central Community Center
       1603 North Belt Street
       Spokane, Washington
       May 14  noon to 2:00pm
        Public Announcement (pdf)

small business owners with disabilities

Free Business Planning Webinar Series  for People with Disabilities

Are you an entrepreneur with a disability who needs a Business Loan for your small business?  Need help writing your business plan? Then sign up for Washington Access Fund's (formerly Washington Assistive Technology Foundation) FREE accessible web-based meetings! The next series begins Tuesday, May 11th from 10:30am-12:00pm and runs weekly for 8 weeks.

To Register: Email: kathy@washingtonaccessfund.org Call: 206-328-5116 TTY: 1-888-494-4775 Please give 14 days notice of accommodations needed.

My experience attending the Webinars and networking with staff have proved to be very useful and I view the end results as a huge personal success.”  --  Webinar participant.

Leadership Networks

You are cordially invited to attend the Washington State Business Leadership Networks’ (WSBLN) Youth with Disabilities Career Exploration and Mentoring Month (in October) Kick Off Event!

 

·        Come find out about the opportunities to be a mentor for a student(s) to learn about your company and your career paths.

·        Hear success stories from other employers who have been mentors and from students who have received mentoring.

·        Training on “Respectful Interactions and Etiquette for Communicating with People with Disabilities” will be presented for participants.

·         Be sure to sign up to be a mentor and pick up your free toolkit to help plan your day with your mentee.

When:           Wednesday, August 26th from 9:00 am – 11:00 am

Where:         Bellevue College Main Campus Conference Center (Building N-201)

                        3000 Landerholm Circle SE, Bellevue, WA 98007-6484.

Directions:   http://bellevuecollege.edu/about/around/directions/main/

Campus Map:  http://bellevuecollege.edu/about/around/directions/maps/main-parking.asp           

Please RSVP:   Your Name, Company/Organization, Email Address and Phone Number to  karenwalters@att.net.  Please indicate if you need any accommodations for attending this event when you rsvp.

 

Something interesting to share

Rob McKenna
ATTORNEY GENERAL OF WASHINGTON
1125 Washington Street SE · PO Box 40100 · Olympia WA 98504-0100

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dec. 18, 2007

Wheelchair company agrees to comply with sales laws

 

OLYMPIA – A New Jersey company accused of making illegal misrepresentations while selling motorized wheelchairs to Washington consumers agreed to reform its sales practices, refrain from future violations and provide consumers with a 14-day cancellation period for any motorized wheelchair under a settlement with the Attorney General’s Office.

The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division accused Electric Mobility Corporation of unlawful trade practices, including misrepresenting the quality and characteristics of its products and consumers’ ability to be reimbursed by Medicare or Medicaid. The Sewell, N.J., company was also accused of using coercive sales tactics, misrepresenting its refund policies and failing to repair or replace defective merchandise.

Electric Mobility denied the state’s allegations but agreed to enter into an Assurance of Discontinuance filed today in Thurston County Superior Court. The company will pay more than $15,400 in attorneys’ fees and legal costs.

“The agreement helps ensure that consumers have all the important information they require to determine whether to purchase one of Electric Mobility’s wheelchairs,” said Assistant Attorney General Jim Sugarman. “If a consumer finds that the wheelchair is not suited to their needs, they may return the chair at no charge within two weeks. If the company fails to comply with required disclosures or violates any consumer protection law, the state can seek substantial civil penalties.”

Under the agreement, Electric Mobility promised to make certain disclosures in its sales documents. It must state whether and how Medicare or Medicaid may pay a portion of the wheelchair’s cost, disclose whether the chair is new or refurbished and provide a description of any warranty. All disclosures must be made clearly and conspicuously before the consumer is asked to sign a sales agreement. The company also agreed to assist each consumer in reading and understanding its sales agreements.

The company will also include certain disclosures on its Web site and in advertisements, contest forms and other promotions. Consumers must be informed that by entering an Electric Mobility contest they agree to receive telemarketing calls from Electric Mobility unless they specifically opt out of such calls.

Electric Mobility must provide an opportunity for consumers to evaluate products in their home prior to purchase, including determining whether the consumer will be able to maneuver the chair in and out of their residence (unless this evaluation is for some reason impossible).

If Electric Mobility arranges financing it must reveal all the terms of the loan at the time of the sale and whether the loan is provided by Electric Mobility or another lender.

Finally, the company must provide the Attorney General’s Office with copies of any complaints it receives from Washington residents during the coming year.

FLYER and Letter text

 D.A.T.O
Disabilities Assistance Trust Organization.
Our Purpose statement:
This organization is formed to provide people with physical disabilities who are at or below the poverty level in Clallam County with financial assistance in the maintenance, repairs, and or replacement of their electronic wheelchairs and or scooters; through procurement of federal, and or state grant monies, and donations from the community.

 Your financial support and participation to this organization would be greatly appreciated.

We meet once a month on the 3rd Monday of every month at 4:PM. At 114 E 6th Street, Port Angeles.

Please send your donations to:
DATO
c/o Peter Ripley, President & Founder
114 E 6th #102
Port Angeles WA, 98362
Our webpage: http://dato98.tripod.com email: dato98@lycos.com

  Disabilities Assistance Trust Organization
Peter Ripley, Founder & President

Dear Sir/Madame,

 Our organization is being established to assist those who use electronic wheelchairs and scooters in defraying the cost of repairs, or replacement of their wheelchairs.
 
 The board will review all those who qualify for assistance.

I’m writing to you today to consider two things; (1)  I would like to invite you to becoming a member of the board of DATO, and/ or (2) to consider contributing to our organization.

  Your donation will help many in our community who face financial burden paying  for the cost of repairs, or  replacement of their motorized equipment.  Many find themselves strapped financially and emotionally, when they have to seek assistance in getting the service they need.

  With your assistance, our organization hopes to be of great help to those who need this service in our community.
 

Thank you for your time,
Peter Ripley, Founder & President

 

 Please send your response to:
DATO
c/o Peter Ripley
114 E 6th #102
Port Angeles WA, 98362
Our webpage: http://dato98.tripod.com
Email: dato98@lycos.com