| Issues of the Day |
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| Arc Preview of Govs Proposed State Budget
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| Wednesday, March 10, 2010 |
The Governor's proposed budget is based upon five basic themes . . .
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| Budget Overview Slide Show
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| Wednesday, March 10, 2010 |
Here is the slide show of the Governor's proposed budget . . .
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| IL State Budget
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| Wednesday, March 10, 2010 |
The news for developmental disabilities is not good. The Arc of Illinois opposes the budget.
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| Arc Update March 9
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| Tuesday, March 09, 2010 |
I am on my way to the Capitol to learn about the Governor's proposed state budget. Stay tuned for updates the next few days . . .
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| Politics Over Good Public Policy
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| Monday, March 08, 2010 |
This week the Governor will release his proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2011. This is the beginning of the budget process so we are likely to see many changes, debates and grand old politics before the final state budget is agreed upon. I continue to hear that there is a possibility that a six month budget may approved and legislators will return after the election to consider a tax increase.
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| DDD Conversion Update
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| Monday, March 08, 2010 |
Memo from Director Teninty on Grants & Conversion.
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| Arc Disability Policy Seminar in DC
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| Monday, March 08, 2010 |
Let me know if you are going to attend the Disability Policy Seminar in Washington D.C.
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| Arc Candidate Forums - We Need Your Help
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| Friday, March 05, 2010 |
We are working with the Life My Way Coalition to organize and host Candidate Forums across Illinois this spring and summer. We also will host two Governor's Forums as well. I am asking you to assist us in this important venture in your local area.
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| FSN Advocacy Training Sessions Being Planned
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| Friday, March 05, 2010 |
Another part of our Life My Way Coalition is Advocacy Training provided by the Family Support Network. Please consider hosting one of our Advocacy Training sessions and please share this information with advocates in your area! We are targeting April and May for these sessions.
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| Direct Support Professional Awards
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| Tuesday, March 02, 2010 |
Please support AAIDD's efforts for Direct Support Professional's recognition at their Spring conference and I am hoping as many organizations as possible get the chance to honor their staff.
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| Budget Cuts Being Considered In The Senate
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| Tuesday, March 02, 2010 |
Tomorrow in the Senate Appropriations Committee it is expected that Senator Trotter will role out appropriations bills that cut 10% from human services and other parts of the state budget.
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| Let's Make Our Voices Heard
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| Tuesday, March 02, 2010 |
Governor Quinn last week posted information about the state budget, on a new website. The picture is very grim without any new revenue. The Governor is also taking public comment on the state budget and Mr. Sick & Tired are making their voices heard! We need to have our voices heard! See story below.
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| Important Opportunity for Future Advocates
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| Friday, February 26, 2010 |
Please share this important opportunity on the LEND Program with others.
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| Arc Update
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| Thursday, February 25, 2010 |
Tomorrow I'm back in the Capitol again. Advocates will meet with legislative staff to discuss Medicaid reform . . .
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| Bill to Delay Managed Care Pilot Passes Out of Committee
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| Thursday, February 25, 2010 |
House Bill 5086 passed out of the House Medicaid Reform, Family & Children Committee today! HB 5086, sponsored by Rep Linda Chapa LaVia, would create a broad based task force to assess the readiness of the Managed Care Pilot before this pilot could move forward.
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| CTBA Releases Human Services Special Report
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| Thursday, February 25, 2010 |
The Center for Tax and Budget Accountability has issued a significant report on "Human Services." The report summarizes the underfunding of the human service safety network and its impact on the state's economy and job loss in human services.
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| Arc Comments on Children's Waiver
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| Thursday, February 25, 2010 |
The Children's Support Waiver is up for renewal. Can you believe it has been three years? I understand that 200 new children will be added to the support waiver soon! Here are our comments to improve the Children's Support and Residential Waivers.
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| Budget Projections Go Online Today
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| Wednesday, February 24, 2010 |
I guess you could say that the state budget process is starting today. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride this legislative session! Know that our priorities this session are the budget and prompt payments.
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| More on Gov's Budget Website
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| Wednesday, February 24, 2010 |
I am hearing that the Governor is going to post two sets of budget numbers on the website today. One set will be with a 5% personal income tax rate and the other one will be without a tax increase. I am not expecting a lot of budget detail. That should come after the Governor's Budget Address on March 10th but we shall see at noon.
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| Preliminary Budget Includes $2 Billion in Cuts
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| Wednesday, February 24, 2010 |
Here is the information released today by the Governor's office about the preliminary state budget for fiscal year 2011. Please remember these figures are certainly subject to change but these cuts do set the tone for the need for new revenue including a tax increase.
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| Obama's New Health Care Proposal Released
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| Tuesday, February 23, 2010 |
President Obama released his new health care proposal today. This summary is from our Disability Policy Collaboration in Washington D.C.
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| Arc Disability Policy Seminar in DC
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| Tuesday, February 23, 2010 |
The Disability Policy Seminar is scheduled for April 12-14, 2010 in Washington D.C. This is one of the best policy seminar's you will ever attend.
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| Civic Federation Calls to Raise Income Tax
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| Monday, February 22, 2010 |
March 10th, Governor Quinn will unveil his budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2011. The Governor will call for new revenue in that proposal as well.
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| Arc and DHS Budget Briefing
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| Monday, February 22, 2010 |
March 10th at noon, Governor Quinn will make his budget presentation to the General Assembly. The Department of Human Services briefing on the Governor's FY 11 Budget will take place one hour after the Gov finishes his budget address. It will take place in the auditorium of the State Museum.
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| Managed Care Update
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| Thursday, February 18, 2010 |
It was standing room only at the Managed Care Pilot Bidders Conference in Springfield today. In my opinion, there was little new information regarding the request for proposals and services.
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| Arc Alert - New Community Services Available Through Class Action Lawsuit Agreement
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| Wednesday, February 17, 2010 |
Agreement on a very important lawsuit, known as Ligas, has been reached. The agreement will mean new community services availability but you will have to make a record of your desire for community services. This record is in addition to also being on the state's waiting list.
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| Sibshop Training Workshop
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| Wednesday, February 17, 2010 |
Please share this Sibshop Training Workshop with your friends!
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| Advocates Oppose Medicaid HMO Plan
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| Tuesday, February 16, 2010 |
Heading to Chicago today for meetings with advocates, Thursday, I'm off to the Capitol for the meeting on the Managed Care pilot and Friday, it's Rock Island for strategic planning.
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| Madigan, Cross Must Find Common Ground
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| Tuesday, February 16, 2010 |
Excellent editorial from the State Journal Register.
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| Illinois Announces Medicaid Managed Care Pilot
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| Thursday, February 11, 2010 |
I have been talking to a lot of reporters this week about Managed Care and individuals with developmental disabilities. Here is a story from Associated Press that has been picked up by newspapers throughout the state.
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| State Reaches Out to Private Health Plans for Managed Care
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| Thursday, February 11, 2010 |
This morning I got a call from one of our members. She had a conversation with a friend of hers who is a state employee. It turns out that her health care plan is part of the state's Managed Care HMO. The state employee needs surgery and the physician will not perform the surgery because of the state inability to pay their bills!
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| Governor's Budget Address Changed
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| Wednesday, February 10, 2010 |
The Governor's Budget Address will now be on Wednesday, March 10th, at noon in the State Capitol.
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| Secretary's Comments at Leadership Conference
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| Wednesday, February 10, 2010 |
It was our pleasure to have Secretary Michelle Saddler address the attendees of our annual Leadership Conference. I asked the Secretary to give us some insight to what drives her work ethic and how we can work together in these trying times. The Secretary ended up spending the entire day with us, along with Director Romano and Director Teninty.
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| Transition Funds Available for People Leaving Howe
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| Tuesday, February 09, 2010 |
Suburban Access has received a new grant to assist in the transition process for individuals at Howe. See details below.
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| Managed Care RFP Now Available
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| Monday, February 08, 2010 |
Here is the Request for Proposal, RFP, for the Managed Care of health and direct care services we have been discussing since just before the holidays.
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| Manged Care RFP in Word
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| Monday, February 08, 2010 |
Attached is a Word Document for the Request for Proposal, RFP, for the Managed Care of health and direct care services for adults with developmental disabilities.
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| President Obama's FY 2011 Budget Request
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| Friday, February 05, 2010 |
Thursday was a great first day at our Leadership Conference! Al Condeluci wowed participants with his practical and innovative focusing on social capital. Al will return at our state convention April 28-29! We were also joined by Directors Romano & Teninty. Today, we are joined by Tamar Heller and Secretary Saddler!
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| Can State Handle Two Recounts?
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| Wednesday, February 03, 2010 |
What an election night and it is still not over!
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| State's Economics Put Clients in Jeopardy
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| Wednesday, February 03, 2010 |
Advocates from across the state gather today at our Leadership Conference to discuss options for the future and issues of immediate concern. We will be joined by Secretary Saddler, Directors Teninty & Romano, ICEArc President Bob Okazaki and Arc Board President Jacki Neil Boss. Our number one priority continues to be prompt payments and new revenue.
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| Emanuel Apologizes
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| Wednesday, February 03, 2010 |
I am very glad to see this.
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| Erasing Fairview Horrors
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| Tuesday, February 02, 2010 |
We must never forget the history of segregation and isolation that many people with disabilities has been forced to live only because of their disability. The following story about Fairview reminds us of the horrors of the past and why we do what we do today.
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| Arc Condemns White House Aide's Use of R Word
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| Monday, February 01, 2010 |
The Arc of the United States scolds White House Chief of Staff for using the "R" word! See press release below.
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| Arc Update Feb. 1
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| Monday, February 01, 2010 |
Make sure you vote tomorrow in the primary election. This could be one of the most important elections in current times. The whole human service safety network is at stake if we do not get candidates who support the need for new revenue.
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| Enhanced Medicaid Match in Presidents New Budget Proposal
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| Monday, February 01, 2010 |
President Obama introduced his new budget today. According to our Disability Collaboration Staff in D.C., the President's FY 2011 budget includes $25.5 billion for additional Federal Medicaid assistance to help states maintain their Medicaid programs and ensure access to health care for millions of Americans.
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| MR Word Gets the Boot!
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| Friday, January 29, 2010 |
I am extremely pleased to report to you that the Division of Developmental Disabilities has announced that, effective February 1, 2010, it will begin replacement of "Qualified Mental Retardation Professional" with "Qualified Support Professional" in Division rules, regulations, training materials and all other communications.
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| CCDI Exec Position Opening
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| Friday, January 29, 2010 |
One of our partners in the Capitol is seeking a new Executive Director. Please share this information with others.
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| Arc/ICEArc Leadership Conference - Join Us!
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| Thursday, January 28, 2010 |
I believe our Leadership Conference is one of the best events we plan. Please join us this year. The Conference begins one week from today so there is still time to register.
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| Selling Out the State
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| Thursday, January 28, 2010 |
One of the few places in the Division of Developmental Disabilities budget that has been identified by national experts as inefficient and expensive has been taken off the table by a recent agreement between the Governor's office and the state's employee union. The agreement states that there will be no new institutional closing through June 30, 2011. This is terrible news for disability advocates and community providers. See today's Chicago Tribune editorial on this agreement.
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| Arc Meets with Govs Staff on Managed Care
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| Wednesday, January 27, 2010 |
We had a spirited and positive Managed Care discussion yesterday with Michael Gelder, Senior Advisor to the Governor on Health Policy. In fact, the meeting almost ran for two hours.
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| NO NEW INSTITUTIONAL CLOSING!
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| Wednesday, January 27, 2010 |
When I heard about a deal being reached yesterday, I wondered what the details would be . . .
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| Human Service Agencies Near Breaking Point
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| Wednesday, January 27, 2010 |
Human Service organizations gather in Bloomington to express their frustration with the states financial crisis and some legislators in this area are saying we need to cut taxes!
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| Dept. of Labor Listening Tour on Employment of People with Disabilities
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| Wednesday, January 27, 2010 |
US Dept. of Labor Assistant Secretary Kathleen Martinez is spearheading a Listening Tour to solicit ideas from employers and individuals with disabilities on more effective ways to employ people.
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| Arc Update January 25, 2010
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| Monday, January 25, 2010 |
I am delighted to inform you that Shirley Perez has been hired and will become a member of The Arc Team on Monday, February 1st! Shirley assumes the position of Special Project Advocate under a new grant we have received. She is a member of The Arc and a strong family advocate. Welcome Shirley!
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| Budget Deficit Now Totals $12.8 Billion
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| Monday, January 25, 2010 |
More bad news on the State's budget deficit, this time from the Civic federation.
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| Arc Board Nominations 2010
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| Monday, January 25, 2010 |
Nominations are now being accepted for positions on The Arc of Illinois Board of Directors. Deadline for nominations is February 15, 2010.
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| Supreme Court Ruling Will Affect Charities
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| Friday, January 22, 2010 |
The recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling on campaign spending may also apply to nonprofit organizations. If you are a 501 C nonprofit, those rules may not change very much but other nonprofits - the rules have changed.
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| Director's Memo on Conversion Issues and Payments
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| Friday, January 22, 2010 |
Director Teninty's memo below.
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| Illinois Enters a State of Insolvency
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| Thursday, January 21, 2010 |
Crain's Chicago Business did this story on the worsening financial conditions of the State of Illinois.
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| Managed Care and the Lewin Report
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| Thursday, January 21, 2010 |
Here is some more information on Managed Care and the 2005 Lewin Report "Assessment of Medicaid Managed Care Options in Illinois."
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| ICEARC Leadership Conference - Feb. 4 - 5
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| Thursday, January 21, 2010 |
Two weeks from today is the opening session of The Arc/ICEARC Leadership Conference. Featured speakers include:
*Al Condeluci, Ph.D., "Leadership in Critical Times". *Tamar Heller, Ph.D., "From Research to Practice." *Secretary Michelle Saddler, "Leadership & Moving Forward in Illinois." In addition, networking opportunities, dinner at Maggiano's Little Italy and much more!
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| The Battle for Health Care Reform is About to Change
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| Wednesday, January 20, 2010 |
Now that Scott Brown has won the Senate seat of the late Senator Edward Kennedy, the battle for health care reform is about to take a new turn.
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| Managed Care in Momspeak!
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| Wednesday, January 20, 2010 |
Charlotte Cronin does an excellent job of taking complicated issues into what she calls "Momspeak"!
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| Arc and Important Employee Transportation Survey
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| Tuesday, January 19, 2010 |
Please take a moment to participate in this important employment survey.
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| Payment Squeeze Continues
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| Tuesday, January 19, 2010 |
Last week the Senate squandered a chance to borrow funds for human service providers so the payment delays continue!
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| Howe Closure Advisory Committee December Minutes
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| Tuesday, January 19, 2010 |
Here are the December minutes for the Howe Closure Advisory Committee.
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| Effort to Pay You Falls Short!
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| Thursday, January 14, 2010 |
I am sorry to report to you than an effort to advance payments to human service providers failed in the Senate yesterday afternoon . . .
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| Kennedy Public Policy Fellowship Program
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| Thursday, January 14, 2010 |
This is an excellent advocacy opportunity to learn about public policy by working with the Kennedy Foundation.
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| Arc Call In Reminder for Wednesday
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| Tuesday, January 12, 2010 |
Legislators head back to Springfield for session this week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. They will not return then until Wednesday, February 3rd, the day after the Primary Election. The Responsible Budget Coalition has scheduled a CALL IN DAY for Wednesday, January 13th!
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| State's Unpaid Bills Hit Record $5 Billion
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| Monday, January 11, 2010 |
Tomorrow I head back to Springfield for a House hearing on managed care and on Wednesday, the Gov gives the "State of the State" Address at noon . . .
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| ARC ACTION ALERT - Call Your Legislators on January 13
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| Monday, January 11, 2010 |
Legislators head back to Springfield for session this week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. They will not return then until Wednesday, February 3rd, the day after the Primary Election . . .
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| Arc Testimony on Managed Care
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| Monday, January 11, 2010 |
Here is my testimony for tomorrows hearing on managed care in the Capitol.
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| Remember Your Passion
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| Friday, January 08, 2010 |
For a moment, put aside your concerns about the state budget, the waiting list, managed care and take a moment to smile by viewing this clip . . .
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| CEO Position Opening at Progressive Housing Inc.
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| Friday, January 08, 2010 |
Please circulate this CEO position opening to interested individuals.
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| Help Us Remove the MR Word
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| Friday, January 08, 2010 |
Help us remove the "MR" word from federal laws. This is from our Disability Policy Collaboration in Washington D.C.
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| Comptroller Says IL Owes $9 Billion
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| Thursday, January 07, 2010 |
This was on NPR yesterday. Can you believe this?
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| New Information on Managed Care Pilot
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| Thursday, January 07, 2010 |
We were delighted to have Representative Patti Bellock as a featured speaker at the monthly meeting of the Illinois Conference of Executives of The Arc. Rep Bellock is the Chairperson of the House Medicaid Reform, Family & Children Services Committee. As you might have expected, most of the conversation with the Representative was around managed care . . .
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| House Committee To Hold Hearing on Managed Care Pilot
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| Wednesday, January 06, 2010 |
The Medicaid Reform, Family & Children Services committee will hold a subject matter hearing to review the Governor's Proposed AABD Managed Care Pilot Program.
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| Arc Comments & Concerns on Managed Care Pilot
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| Wednesday, January 06, 2010 |
Because this came over the Holidays and the memo was discussed with our Exec's today with great interest, it was recommended that I resend this memo.
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| Shapiro Hires 92 for Howe Transfers
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| Wednesday, January 06, 2010 |
Oh great! Shapiro is about to become one of the largest state institutions in the country with 100 people moving from Howe! So much for our vision!
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| Life My Way Shares Personal Stories
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| Tuesday, January 05, 2010 |
LifeMyWay, a project by the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities, was featured on ABC-Chicago last week!
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| Arc Leadership in Critical Times Conference
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| Tuesday, January 05, 2010 |
"Leadership in Critical Times" is the theme of this years Leadership Conference to be held at the Hilton Hotel in Lisle, Feb. 4-5 . . .
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| Woman Found Chained in Filth
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| Tuesday, January 05, 2010 |
Here is an awful story about a woman with intellectual disabilities being chained to furniture in a filthy home and a two year old child inside as well. Story from the Chicago Tribune.
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| Arc Update and Tax Policy Clearly Divides Gov Candidates
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| Monday, January 04, 2010 |
Happy New Year to all of you! 2010 is going to be a year for leadership. I appreciate your membership in The Arc and pledge to work even harder for the people we support!
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| New Medical Director Appointed at DDD
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| Monday, January 04, 2010 |
New Medical Director appointed for the Division of Developmental Disabilities.
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| Managed Care Issues and Recommendations
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| Tuesday, December 29, 2009 |
Let me thank all of you for your comments on managed care. They have been very helpful. We have had a number of meetings with the Governor's office, the Department of Human Services and the Department of Healthcare and Family Services. As a result, we have put together the following document to share with Jerry Stermer, the Governor's Chief of Staff . . .
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| Kim Peek Passes
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| Tuesday, December 22, 2009 |
I am so sorry to inform you that Kim Peek has passed. Kim came to many of our events in Illinois and "wowed" us all. We really go to know Kim and his father Fran very well. So sad.
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| A Way Out of This Financial Nightmare
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| Monday, December 21, 2009 |
President Jacki Neil-Boss will lead a delegation of Arc Board & Staff for a meeting with Secretary Saddler and Director Teninty. Our top agenda items include payment delays, managed care and Howe.
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| The Arc of U.S. Legislative Alerts |
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| Action Alert - Remove the Term Mental Retardation from Federal Laws
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| Monday, December 21, 2009 |
Do You Want the Term "Mental Retardation" Removed from Federal Laws? Take Action! New federal bill would replace this stigmatizing term with "intellectual disability"
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| Issues of the Day |
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| No Way to Refer to the Vulnerable
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| Friday, December 18, 2009 |
I am off to Chicago today to continue our battle to stop managed care for individuals with developmental disabilities at the Medicaid Advisory Committee. Important commentary from today's Chicago Tribune.
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| Managed Care Update & Gov. Makes Appointments to Human Services Commission
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| Friday, December 18, 2009 |
I learned a couple of things today about the managed care initiative that is being proposed for people on Medicaid including individuals with developmental disabilities . . .
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| Disabled and Out of Work
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| Thursday, December 17, 2009 |
The following story is from today's Chicago Tribune. It features Mark Karner, a good friend of mine, about his quest to find employment.
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| Comptroller Looks Like A Fussbudget
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| Thursday, December 17, 2009 |
The Human Services Coalition will hold a press conference today in the Capitol about the need for this short-term loan.
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| Report of Medicaid Impact on IL Economy and Howe
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| Wednesday, December 16, 2009 |
The Howe Transition Committee meets tomorrow morning. I was sorry to learn that eight individual have passed away in the Howe transition. Those deaths are being investigated.
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| Arc's Annual QMRP Leadership Conference
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| Wednesday, December 16, 2009 |
Please join us at our 8th QMRP Leadership Conference, January 26, 2010 at the Doubletree Hotel in Alsip!
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| Unionization of Home Based Workers
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| Tuesday, December 15, 2009 |
Here is some important information on the unionization of Home-Based Support workers from the Family Support Network.
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| The Benefits of Chocolate
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| Monday, December 14, 2009 |
Great story about our good friends at Esperanza! Nice job Diane!
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| State Must Pay Bills to Keep Services
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| Monday, December 14, 2009 |
ABC news story on the backlog of bills to human service providers gets worse!
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| Neumann Honors Senator Steans
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| Friday, December 11, 2009 |
Wow! What a night we had last night honoring Senator Heather Steans as The Arc's Legislator of the Year.
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| Arc to Honor Senator Steans
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| Thursday, December 10, 2009 |
Tonight, The Arc of Illinois will honor Senator Heather Steans as our Legislator of the Year for her leadership and advocacy!
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| Convention Survey on Post-Secondary Education Exhibitors
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| Thursday, December 10, 2009 |
Our convention committee asked me to send this survey to you. You can return it to me. Thanks for your consideration!
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| Important DDD Conversion Information
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| Wednesday, December 09, 2009 |
I am sharing with you some important documents from the Division of Developmental Disabilities who are working with you to convert grants to Medicaid funding.
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| Gov Will Seek Big Cuts
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| Wednesday, December 09, 2009 |
Story on possible 14% state agency budget cuts from Stltoday.com!
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| Dreaming New Dreams Webinar
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| Wednesday, December 09, 2009 |
I encourage you to register for this exciting new webinar being presented by The Family Support Network!
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| Impact of Managed Care in DD Sector
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| Tuesday, December 08, 2009 |
I have been talking to many legislators, in both parties, about managed care. What they have been telling me is that they do not want to see managed care imposed upon the developmental disability or mental health systems.
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| Leaders Need to Face Reality
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| Monday, December 07, 2009 |
Governor Quinn wants to take out another loan to pay the backlog of bills to human service providers. Comptroller Hynes says we need to increase new taxes and revenue now. Hynes does not want take out more loans and the Gov needs Hynes support to do another loan.
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| If You Can't Kill Needy, Slash Their Funding
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| Monday, December 07, 2009 |
Phil Kadner offer some powerful commentary in his column. Dan Strict, President, SouthStar Services is quoted!
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| New Commission on Human Services, Ligas Update and More
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| Friday, December 04, 2009 |
First, thank you for all of your comments on managed care and there were a lot! There are also three other items of interest we that I wanted to share with you - a Ligas update, the creation of a new Commission on Human Services and the State's new Prompt Payment Act.
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| Speaker Madigan on Income Tax Increase
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| Friday, December 04, 2009 |
Story from the Chicago Tribune.
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| DD Managed Care Services Heading Our Way
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| Thursday, December 03, 2009 |
Those of you who read my columns know I am no fan of managed care. Infants, children and adults with disabilities have unique individualized needs that do not fit nicely into the square pegs of a managed care system . . .
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| Introducing Aspire CoffeeWorks!
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| Thursday, December 03, 2009 |
Check out this new project at Aspire. I am ordering some right now!
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| DD Grants Conversion and More
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| Thursday, December 03, 2009 |
Wednesday, the Illinois Conference of Executives of The Arc met via video conference.I wanted to share with you some of the information regarding the grants conversion and our discussion with Rep Esther Golar and Senator Heather Steans.
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| Jerkovitz Appointed New Director of DSCC
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| Tuesday, December 01, 2009 |
Congratulations to Tom Jerkovitz and his appointment as the new Director of the Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC).
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| People Like Me
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| Monday, November 30, 2009 |
Excellent commentary by Ben Mattlin from the Chicago Tribune about health care reform and people with disabilities.
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| Arc Meets with Comptroller Hynes and more . . .
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| Monday, November 30, 2009 |
Wednesday, I was invited to meet with Comptroller Hynes to talk about the state budget and human services. The Comptroller wanted us to know his position on funding human services and hear about his three year plan to balance the state budget. He is concerned that we are harming human services because of delayed payments and he wants to change that . . .
more >> |
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| Managed Care?
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| Monday, November 30, 2009 |
I have been invited to this meeting on managed care below . . .
more >> |
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| Farley Files Residential Placement Lawsuit
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| Monday, November 30, 2009 |
Bob Farley has filed a lawsuit against the state for failure to provide timely funding for a student requiring a residential setting.
more >> |
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| Arc Flu Update and Reminders
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| Friday, November 20, 2009 |
Here is an important memo from Director Teninty about the outbreak of influenza in community settings.
more >> |
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| Arc Comments on Howe and Health Care Update
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| Thursday, November 19, 2009 |
Yesterday I met with the Coalition for Real Choice to discuss areas that we could collaborate on in the new year. It was great to meet with Barbara Pritchard, Nick Quealy-Gainer and Charlotte Cronin.
more >> |
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| Arc and Teninty Memo on Grants Funding
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| Thursday, November 19, 2009 |
Here is a memo from Director Teninty that grant funded services will be funded through February of 2010.
more >> |
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| Arc Update Nov. 17, 2009
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| Tuesday, November 17, 2009 |
Director Michael McRaith from the Illinois Dept. of Insurance addressed a crowd of 55 advocates at our "Private Health Insurance for Children with Special Needs" workshop today. The Director is a strong advocate for families and we look forward to working with him. Special thanks to Faye Manaster who put this seminar together as part of The Arc's Family to Family program . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and DOJ Report Condemns Howe
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| Monday, November 16, 2009 |
This afternoon, the House Disability Services Committee will hold a hearing about the transition of individuals out of Howe into other settings.
more >> |
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| Arc and Howe Hearing
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| Thursday, November 12, 2009 |
Please make sure you send me your success stories about people who have moved out of state institutions as I prepare for another hearing on Howe.
more >> |
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| Arc and Illinois Budget Among Worst in Nation
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| Thursday, November 12, 2009 |
No surprise in this new report but what I find surprising is the lack of urgency and support for new taxes from our legislators. We cannot cut our way out of this budget mess!
more >> |
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| Arc and Politicians & Union Fight to Save Howe
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| Wednesday, November 11, 2009 |
Another story about efforts to keep Howe open!
more >> |
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| Arc and Gov Quinn Freezes ADA Fares for Two Years
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| Wednesday, November 11, 2009 |
Governor Quinn announced today that ADA Paratransit Services will see no increase in fares for at least two years!
more >> |
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| Arc Update on Ligas and AFAA National Town Hall Meeting
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| Monday, November 09, 2009 |
Last week, Barry Taylor, Advocacy Director at Equip for Equality, gave a presentation on the status of Ligas v. Maram filed in 2005. The judge in Ligas did not dismiss the case. In fact, Equip and the State are now holding settlement discussions. Below is a fact sheet on Ligas. Later this week I will share with you more information on Ligas.
more >> |
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| Arc and Affordable Health Care for America Act of 2009
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| Monday, November 09, 2009 |
Here is a summary prepared by our Disability Policy Staff in D.C. about the Affordable Health Care for America Act of 2009. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives on Saturday and includes many provisions that are important to people with disabilities.
more >> |
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| Arc Update and Possible Reserves
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| Thursday, November 05, 2009 |
I talked to people today at the Department of Human Services regarding a possible reserve on your contracts. It is true that the Governor's office has contacted DHS about possible reserves but we do not know how much may be reserved from your contracts . . .
more >> |
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| ARC ACTION ALERT - YOU MUST CALL TODAY
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| Thursday, November 05, 2009 |
I strongly encourage you and other advocates to call your Representatives in Washington D.C. today!
more >> |
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| Arc and Health Care Reform Update
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| Tuesday, November 03, 2009 |
I know you have been reading a lot about the different health care proposals being discussed in Washington D.C. Here is status report on the newest Senate proposal and a short summary of the House bill including important provisions for people with disabilities.
more >> |
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| Arc and Seasonal Flu & Implications for Children/Adults with Disabilities
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| Tuesday, November 03, 2009 |
Flu season is upon us and it is important that we all take precautions to prevent the spread of the flu.
more >> |
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| Arc and More on Howe
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| Tuesday, November 03, 2009 |
One commentary from Phil Kadner and one story from the Daily Southtown.
more >> |
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| Arc Alert on Howe
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| Tuesday, November 03, 2009 |
Things are heating up at Howe again. Rep Ester Golar, the new chair of the House Disability Committee, is holding a hearing about the Howe transition.
more >> |
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| Arc Busy Week Ahead
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| Monday, November 02, 2009 |
Governor Quinn has called the RTA, Metra, CTA and Pace for a special meeting on Tuesday concerning continuing funding problems for mass transit including ADA Paratransit services. Service cuts and increased fares are being discussed. Lets see what the Governor has planned.
more >> |
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| Arc and Group Seeks to Stop Closing of Howe
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| Monday, November 02, 2009 |
Another effort is underway to keep Howe open! See story below.
more >> |
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| Arc Legislative Update - Paratransit Bill in Trouble
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| Friday, October 30, 2009 |
Senate Bill 941 ran into problems last night. I am unsure if it will be considered today. If SB 941 is not approved, ADA paratransit fares could rise! This is very bad news . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and DDD Memo on Medicaid Conversion Project and Voucher Respite Programs
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| Thursday, October 29, 2009 |
Reta Hoskin clarifies a mistake involving the Medicaid Conversion below. She states, "It was not our intention to include the Voucher Respite Grants (funded through Program 450) in the conversion project."
more >> |
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| Arc and Obama Signs Hate Crime Bill That Includes People with Disabilities
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| Thursday, October 29, 2009 |
President Obama signed hate crime legislation Wednesday that extends protections to people based on gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and disability. The Arc worked long and hard to get people with disabilities included in this important legislation.
more >> |
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| Arc Paratransit Update, National Town Hall Meeting and more!
|
| Wednesday, October 28, 2009 |
Paratransit update, SB 941, amendment #2, will be run in the House Executive Committee this morning. If approved, this bill will fully fund ADA Paratransit Services for two years . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Housing for Patients
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| Wednesday, October 28, 2009 |
Many of you have probably been following the Chicago Tribunes reporting on the problems of people with disabilities in nursing homes. Here is a Voice of the People response from Ben Wolf and Barry Taylor on that series.
more >> |
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| Arc and Woman Pleads Guilty in Torture Slaying
|
| Wednesday, October 28, 2009 |
You may recall the cruel death of Dorothy Dixon at the hands of her caretakers in Alton back in 2008. See story below.
more >> |
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| Arc and Tony's on the Radio Tonight
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| Wednesday, October 28, 2009 |
I will be on Disability Beat radio show tonight. My interview is about the current problems for people with disabilities because of the state budget deficit and the Veto Session of the General Assembly.
more >> |
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| Arc and Axelrods Hunt a Cure for Epilepsy
|
| Tuesday, October 27, 2009 |
David & Susan Axelrod share their story about their daughter Lauren in a 60 Minutes interview.
more >> |
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| Arc Veto Session Update
|
| Monday, October 26, 2009 |
The final week of the Fall Veto Session begins Wednesday and we are now 100 days from the primary elections.
more >> |
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| Arc and Lester Important to Galesburg
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| Monday, October 26, 2009 |
I thought this was an excellent story about Lester. Much of this information is new to me.
more >> |
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| Arc and State Must Face Up to Financial Problems
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| Monday, October 26, 2009 |
Here is a powerful and necessary editorial from the State Journal Register . . .
more >> |
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| Arc Alert: Stop Paratransit Fare Increases NOW
|
| Friday, October 23, 2009 |
Once again paratransit riders are facing increases in their rider fares!
more >> |
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| Arc and Lester Pritchard a Real Illinois Hero
|
| Friday, October 23, 2009 |
LifeMyWay has put together some stories about Lester Pritchard's life and leadership. Click on below to learn about a real hero in Illinois.
more >> |
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| Arc and Support HB 174
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| Thursday, October 22, 2009 |
Yesterday advocates met to plan events and strategies for the new state budget, the "Blueprint" and the elections. I cannot wait to share with you the strategies we need to put into action. It was a very good day!
more >> |
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| Arc and Union Vote Fails
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| Tuesday, October 20, 2009 |
I put on 480 miles esterday meeting with advocates and legislators in Marion and Champaign seeking support for House Bill 174!
more >> |
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| Arc and Ask Your Legislator to Support HB 174
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| Thursday, October 15, 2009 |
Advocates will once again converge upon the Capitol asking legislators to support House Bill 174.
more >> |
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| Arc Legislative Update
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| Thursday, October 15, 2009 |
The Capitol is crammed today as advocates push for support of House Bill 174!
more >> |
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| Arc and Lester Pritchard in Tribune
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| Thursday, October 15, 2009 |
I will be at Lester's funeral tomorrow. A great loss for all of us.
more >> |
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| Arc and Arrangements for Lester Pritchard
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| Wednesday, October 14, 2009 |
Lester Thomas Pritchard, 60, of Urbana, passed away at 10:33 A.M., Monday, October 12, 2009 at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Legislative Pay Raises
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| Wednesday, October 14, 2009 |
Can you believe that legislative pay raises are still up for consideration? Story from the Peoria Journal Star!
more >> |
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| Arc Update on Health Care Reform for People with Disabilities
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| Wednesday, October 14, 2009 |
You are probably aware that U.S. Senate Finance Committee passed health care reform legislation out of committee yesterday. Soon your U.S. Representatives and Senators will have to vote for or against health care reform. People with disabilities and their families have a lot at stake here.
more >> |
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| Arc and Important Paratransit Legislation SB 941
|
| Wednesday, October 14, 2009 |
An important paratransit funding bill passed out of the House Executive Committee this morning . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Parents Decry Care at Deicke Home
|
| Tuesday, October 13, 2009 |
Families express concern over unlicensed group home. Story from the Chicago Tribune.
more >> |
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| Arc and Low Key Veto Session Predicted
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| Tuesday, October 13, 2009 |
Advocates will be working to get co-sponsors for House Bill 174 during the veto session . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Is Gov Playing Politics with Care for Disabled?
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| Tuesday, October 13, 2009 |
Fox news story on unionization of home-based personal support workers. Pam Harris is featured . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Life Remembered - Pritchard Fought for Disability Rights
|
| Tuesday, October 13, 2009 |
Here is a good story on our friend Lester Pritchard. His funeral arrangements are still pending.
more >> |
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| Lester Pritchard
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| Monday, October 12, 2009 |
Lester Pritchard passed away this morning.
more >> |
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| Arc and Gov Names New DHS Secretary
|
| Monday, October 12, 2009 |
Sunday, Governor Quinn named Michelle Saddler as the new Secretary of the Illinois Department of Human Services. Michelle has been the Director of Policy for the Governor and that is where I came to know her . . .
more >> |
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| Service for Kathy Conour and Curtis MD Leaving
|
| Friday, October 09, 2009 |
A memorial service for Kathy Conour will be held at The Abe Lincoln Hotel, Springfield, Saturday, October 10th, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and DDD Update on Conversion of Grants
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| Friday, October 09, 2009 |
From the Division of Developmental Disabilities on the grants conversion. Make sure you attend the regional meetings.
more >> |
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| Arc and Howe Closure Advisory Council Minutes
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| Friday, October 09, 2009 |
Here is a copy of the minutes of the first meeting of the Howe Closure Advisory Council.
more >> |
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| Arc and RBC Rally Update
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| Friday, October 09, 2009 |
Here is an update from the Responsible Budget Coalition.
more >> |
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| Arc and DDD Conversion Q & A
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| Thursday, October 08, 2009 |
Attached is a Question & Answer Document on the Conversion of Grant Programs from Reta Hoskin.
more >> |
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| Arc and Cutting Meals for the Disabled
|
| Thursday, October 08, 2009 |
You go Phil! From today's the Daily Southtown.
more >> |
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| Arc Talking Points for Legislators on State Budget and More
|
| Thursday, October 08, 2009 |
As you already know beginning with the Fall Override Session which starts on Oct. 14th, we are going to be embroiled in a major political debate about the need for new revenue. I do not expect this debate to end anytime soon but we must be prepared to talk to our legislators about the need for new revenue, not more cuts to human services!
more >> |
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| Arc Q & A on Responsible Budget Coalition
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| Thursday, October 08, 2009 |
Some of you have been asking about the Responsible Budget Coalition and our membership in it. Here is a Q&A on the RBC which now has over 150 members.
more >> |
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| Arc Meets with Leader Cross and Other Issues
|
| Thursday, October 08, 2009 |
This morning advocates met with House Republican Leader Tom Cross to discuss the waiting list, House Bill 174 and including reducing the institutional funding bias in Illinois as a part of his reform package.
more >> |
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| Arc Update and Funding Opportunity
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| Tuesday, October 06, 2009 |
I head to the big city today to meet with disability advocates. Tomorrow I head to Pontiac to meet with the Illinois Conference of Executives of The Arc and Thursday we meet with House Republican Leader Tom Cross . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and New Budget Chief in Town
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| Tuesday, October 06, 2009 |
Governor Quinn named a new Director for the Governor's Office of Management & Budget.
more >> |
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| Arc and Chicago Premiere of Inspiring Documentary
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| Tuesday, October 06, 2009 |
This should be very good! I talked to Lane about this Chicago Premiere and would encourage you to attend.
more >> |
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| Arc and CDC Finds Higher Incidence of Autism
|
| Monday, October 05, 2009 |
Here is an important story on the incidence of autism from the Chicago Tribune.
more >> |
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| Arc and President's New Initiatives During National Disability Employment Month
|
| Monday, October 05, 2009 |
On September 30, President Barack Obama signed a proclamation designating October as National Disability Employment Month.
more >> |
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| Arc and Budget Problem Worsens
|
| Monday, October 05, 2009 |
Interesting editorial from Decatur.
more >> |
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| Arc and IL Backs Service Dog at School
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| Monday, October 05, 2009 |
Can you believe this?
more >> |
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| Arc Presents Michael Callahan and Access to Employment
|
| Friday, October 02, 2009 |
There is still time to register for Michael Callahan's presentation on "Access to Employment." Michael has consulted throughout the US, Canada and Europe in the areas of supported and customized employment. This is a great opportunity to learn about best practice in employment.
more >> |
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| Arc and Please Assist LifeMyWay!
|
| Friday, October 02, 2009 |
We need to support LifeMyWay! Please share this with self-advocates and families.
more >> |
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| Arc and IL Taxes Are Not High Enough
|
| Friday, October 02, 2009 |
Phil Kadner with the Southtown Star talks to Ralph Martire about the need for a tax increase.
more >> |
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| Arc Update Oct. 1st
|
| Thursday, October 01, 2009 |
I think I am finally catching up with my email after my vacation! Here are some items I thought you might be interested in.
more >> |
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| Arc and Responsible Budget Coalition Update
|
| Thursday, October 01, 2009 |
Here is an update on the good work of the Responsible Budget Coalition. As you can see we are very active. Both Phil Milsk and I are working on committees . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Sharing the Care Seminar in Springfield
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| Wednesday, September 30, 2009 |
Join The Arc of Illinois Family to Family Health Information & Education Center and The Autism Program are co-sponsoring another "Sharing the Care" seminar . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Responsible Budget Coalition Update
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| Wednesday, September 30, 2009 |
The Arc is working with a new coalition, the Responsible Budget Coalition. Right now coalition members are meeting with legislators asking them to become co-sponsors of House Bill 174 . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Chicago Flunks
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| Monday, September 28, 2009 |
I am back after a week off and ready to go! Today I head to Naperville to meet with advocates to discuss veto session and 2010 election strategies . . .
more >> |
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| Final Version of Assessment Tool for Conversion Project
|
| Thursday, September 24, 2009 |
The following message is from Reta Hoskin on the Final Version of Assessment Tool for Conversion Project.
more >> |
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| Arc & Kathy Conour Memorials
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| Wednesday, September 23, 2009 |
The following article from the State Journal Register is a tribute to Kathy Conour and her advocacy work together with Diana Braun. The article has a link to Kathy's obituary and her wishes.
more >> |
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| Arc and Kathy Conour
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| Monday, September 21, 2009 |
Illinois has lost a great advocate. I have lost a good friend.
more >> |
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| Arc and Black Caucus Human Services Forum
|
| Thursday, September 17, 2009 |
I was very pleased to be invited to the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Human Services Forum today. Many legislators attended including the Black Caucus Chairperson Will Davis, Rep Al Riley, Rep Art Turner, Rep Marlow Colvin, Senator Toi Hutchinson, Senator Donne Trotter, Senator Kimberly Lightford, Senator Meeks, Collins, Rep Andre Tapedi, Rep Deborah Graham and there may have been others I missed . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Send Your Ideas on New Legislation
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| Thursday, September 17, 2009 |
I wanted to invite you once again for your ideas for possible new legislation for the new session of the General Assembly in 2010. Our best legislative initiatives come from our members.
more >> |
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| Arc and Howe Provider Expo Arrangements
|
| Tuesday, September 15, 2009 |
The Division of Developmental Disabilities will be hosting a Provider Expo for people living at Howe and their families . . .
more >> |
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| Arc Sharing the Care Seminar September 23 - Time to Register
|
| Tuesday, September 15, 2009 |
The Arc of Illinois Family to Family Health Information Center is putting on another "Sharing the Care" seminar. Details are attached and please share this with others.
more >> |
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| Arc and the Responsible Budget Coalition
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| Tuesday, September 15, 2009 |
I wanted to update you about an important new coalition we are working with. It is the Responsible Budget Coalition. Its mission is building the support needed to solve Illinois' budget crisis, prevent harmful cuts to essential public services, save jobs, eliminate the state's long-term structural deficit and provide Illinoisans with relief from regressive taxation.
more >> |
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| Arc and The Law for Children & Adults with Disabilities
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| Tuesday, September 15, 2009 |
Please share with other advocates.
more >> |
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| Arc and New Exec at NADS & Ryg Replaced
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| Tuesday, September 15, 2009 |
Carol Sente has been named to replace Kathy Ryg as the House member from the 59th District. Carol is an architect from Vernon Hills and services on a local park district board. Her architectural firm is in Deerfield . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Girl Breaks Through Silence
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| Tuesday, September 15, 2009 |
Octavia Byars joins The Arc's Family to Family Health Education Center as a Transition Specialist. Welcome Octavia!
more >> |
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| Arc - Organized labor recruits in-home caregivers
|
| Monday, September 14, 2009 |
I have now heard of everything. The unions are attempting to organize family members in the Home-Based Services Program!
Remember, families can just say "no" with their vote.
Story from the Chicago Tribune follows. Charlotte Cronin, Executive Director of the Family Support Network is quoted.
more >> |
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| Arc - Illinois Holding Families Hostage
|
| Monday, September 14, 2009 |
Over the Labor Day weekend, Adapt Productions aired a special news story about the budget cuts in human services on CAN TV in Chicago.
Gaye Preston, CEO, Community Support Services, Chuck Nilles also from CSS and I were interviewed for this story, "Illinois Holding Families Hostage."
Here is a link to that story: http://www.blip.tv/file/2546822/
more >> |
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| Arc - Flu & Emergency Preparedness News
|
| Monday, September 14, 2009 |
Important information on the flu vaccine and the need for direct care professionals to be vaccinated as well from the Dept. of Public Health.
more >> |
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| Arc - Gov Says No Tax Hike Push Until New Year
|
| Monday, September 14, 2009 |
Gov says he will wait until Jan 1st before he pushes for a tax hike.
more >> |
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|
| Barry Taylor sends us an update on the Ligas lawsuit and a story from the Daily Herald.
|
| Monday, September 14, 2009 |
A civil rights lawsuit on behalf of Illinois adults with developmental
disabilities is winding through the federal court system in a complex
case that involves millions of dollars, hundreds of jobs, thousands of
people, unions, the usual political disputes, four years of legal
finagling and lifetimes of emotions.
more >> |
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| Arc - Employment Opportunities
|
| Monday, September 14, 2009 |
Here are two excellent opportunities available right now including an Executive Director and a Director of Development.
Please share these position openings with others
more >> |
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| Arc and DDD Conversion Update September 10, 2009
|
| Monday, September 14, 2009 |
The conversion work group met again today and will meet again as data from grant providers becomes available probably early November.
more >> |
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| Arc DDD Conversion Update September 2
|
| Wednesday, September 02, 2009 |
The 2010 Conversion Workgroup met today. Attached are draft documents on the plan and template for the conversion. Once again these are drafts which will be posted at the Conversions Website and subject to change.
more >> |
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| Arc and Status of FY 2010 Conversion Project
|
| Tuesday, September 01, 2009 |
Tomorrow I am hosting a video conference for Arc Exec's. Director Teninty will join us to discuss the conversion of the grant programs. Phil Milsk will give us a legislative update.
more >> |
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| Arc Legislative Platform - Submit Recommendations Now
|
| Tuesday, September 01, 2009 |
As members of The Arc, you are invited to submit ideas for new legislation or items we should consider for our legislative priorities.
more >> |
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| Arc and Home Based Union Efforts
|
| Monday, August 31, 2009 |
Important message from Charlotte Cronin and Illinois Parents of Adults with Developmental Disabilities United follows.
more >> |
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| Arc and Gov to Close Howe
|
| Friday, August 28, 2009 |
Governor Quinn announced just now that he will close the state institution Howe. The Arc sincerely appreciates his leadership by making this difficult decision . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Govs Press Release and Final Report on Howe
|
| Friday, August 28, 2009 |
Here is the Governor's press release on Howe and attached is Shannon's final report on Howe which lead to the closing.
more >> |
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| Arc and Quinn's Gutsy Call
|
| Friday, August 28, 2009 |
Arc President Jacki Neil Boss quoted in the Chicago Tribune story about the closing of Howe and an excellent editorial as well. Story from Daily Southtown as well follows.
more >> |
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| Arc Mourns the Loss of Senator Kennedy
|
| Thursday, August 27, 2009 |
I had the privilege of meeting Senator Kennedy a few times at Arc legislative events in Washington D.C. His death is a great loss to all of us concerned about individuals with disabilities.
more >> |
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| Arc and Sp. Ed. Parental Participation and Other Legislation Signed by Gov
|
| Thursday, August 27, 2009 |
Here is an update on recent bills signed by Governor Quinn.
more >> |
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| Arc and Attorney Bob Farley to Discuss New Transition to Adult Services Lawsuit Today
|
| Wednesday, August 26, 2009 |
Robert Farley will be on Disability Beat, today at 5:30 pm to discuss his new transition to adult services lawsuit . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Transition Lawsuit
|
| Tuesday, August 25, 2009 |
Here is the entire lawsuit filed by Attorney Bob Farley about transitioning from special education to adult services.
more >> |
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| Arc Update on DDD Medical Conversion
|
| Tuesday, August 25, 2009 |
Yesterday we had a productive meeting with Director Teninty and her staff about converting grants to Medicaid. The goal of this conversion is to avoid cuts to these grants and it is not going to be an easy process.
more >> |
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| Arc and Transition to Adult Services Lawsuit Filed Today
|
| Monday, August 24, 2009 |
Attorney Bob Farley has filed a transition to adult services lawsuit today. See information in Bob's press release.
more >> |
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| Arc and FY 2010 Conversion Project
|
| Thursday, August 20, 2009 |
Director Teninty is calling the advisory group for the FY 2010 Conversion Project together on Monday, August 24th . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and National Health Care Forum Today
|
| Thursday, August 20, 2009 |
Join us if you'd like. There is a lot of bad information out there about health care reform and lord knows children and adults with special health care needs already realize the problems with our current system.
more >> |
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| Arc and Paratransit Services Grants
|
| Thursday, August 20, 2009 |
Some of you who operate paratransit and other transportation might be interested in these grants.
more >> |
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| Arc and One Click to Something Amazing
|
| Wednesday, August 19, 2009 |
One click to something amazing! A new and exciting campaign, www.LifeMyWay.org, from our friends at Serafin & Associates in partnership with the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Learn About Microboards & Cooperatives Oline
|
| Tuesday, August 18, 2009 |
Today I head to Chicago to talk to CAN TV about a show on the recent budget cuts to individuals with disabilities and their families. Here is an interesting opportunity to learn about microboards and cooperatives tonight and Saturday.
more >> |
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| Arc and New Bills Signed Into Law
|
| Monday, August 17, 2009 |
The Governor took action on many of the bills we have been following last week. One disappointment was his amendatory veto or House Bill 758. Here is a report from Phil Milsk, our Governmental Affairs Consultant.
more >> |
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| Arc and DDD Medicaid Conversion Project
|
| Monday, August 17, 2009 |
The Division of Developmental Disabilities has set up a new website on their Medicaid Conversion Project . . .
more >> |
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|
| Arc and Rep. Ryg Resigns to Become Pres. of Voices for Illinois Children
|
| Monday, August 17, 2009 |
We are losing a great legislator but gaining a fantastic advocate! Best to you Kathy Ryg!
more >> |
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| Arc and Katie is Getting Married Today!
|
| Saturday, August 15, 2009 |
Congratulations to Katie and Gary who are getting married today!!!
more >> |
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| Arc Remembers Mrs. Shriver
|
| Thursday, August 13, 2009 |
I know you are all aware of the passing of Mrs. Shriver and all of her advocacy on the behalf of individuals with intellectual disabilities . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Last of Lincoln Employees Done
|
| Thursday, August 13, 2009 |
Update on the closed state institution in Lincoln.
more >> |
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| Arc and DDD Funding Letter Going Out Today
|
| Wednesday, August 12, 2009 |
Click on message title for details.
more >> |
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| Arc and Judge Sotomayor Good for People with Disabilities
|
| Tuesday, August 11, 2009 |
With all of this important work on restoring budget cuts and now managed care, we had an historic appointment to the Supreme Court!
more >> |
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| Arc and DDD Budget Update - Grants Restored, FAP and more
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| Monday, August 10, 2009 |
Grant programs, PUNS funding and other services are restored. See Director Teninty's memo below . . .
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| Action Alert on Health Care Reform
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| Monday, August 10, 2009 |
Arc Action Alert on health care reform and what you can do!
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| Arc and DDD Proposal on Grants Conversion to Medicaid
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| Wednesday, August 05, 2009 |
Rather than causing more harm to people getting services in grant programs by cutting another 30% or $22 million, Director Teninty is going to present a proposal to address the reduction without having to make direct funding cuts to grant programs. Part of this proposal is a conversion process for grants.
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| Arc and Private Health Insurance for Children with Special Needs Seminar
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| Wednesday, August 05, 2009 |
Save the Date! Join us on November 17th to learn more about new Illinois health insurance laws, health care reform, working with your insurance company, helpful resources and more!
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| Arc and DHS Social Service Advisory Committee
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| Wednesday, August 05, 2009 |
Phil is on the Secretary's Social Service Advisory Committee. Here is a summary of their meeting on August 3rd. See comments on contracts, back billing and Howe.
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| Arc and Government's Role as Protector of Disabled
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| Monday, August 03, 2009 |
Advocates will meet with Director Teninty this morning at 10:00 a.m. to discuss cuts to the Division of Developmental Disabilities budget . . .
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| Arc and DDD to Cut $22 Million
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| Monday, August 03, 2009 |
This week the Division of Developmental Disabilities will need to finalize a plan to reduce the Divisions budget by $22 million! The Director is forming a work group on this task.
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| Arc and Gov to Announce Budget Details
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| Friday, July 31, 2009 |
Today the Governor will lay out his cuts to the new state budget. Even this morning the people who have to implement this new budget do not know what the Governor will cut in their budgets!
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| Arc and View Govs Press Conference on Budget at 2:45 PM
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| Friday, July 31, 2009 |
You can view the Governor's budget presentation at 2:45, see information from Capitol FAX below.
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| Arc and DDD Cuts
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| Friday, July 31, 2009 |
This is a very quick review!
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| Arc and New Relief Loan Fund for Human Services
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| Thursday, July 30, 2009 |
Kresge Foundation is stepping up to help human services in these tough times! Visit the website for further information.
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| Arc and Class Action Lawsuit Filed for Medically Fragile Adults with Disabilities Today
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| Thursday, July 30, 2009 |
Attorney Robert Farley has filed a class action lawsuit on the behalf of medically fragile adults with disabilities . . .
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| Arc and Advanced Leadership Academy for IL Self-Advocates
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| Thursday, July 30, 2009 |
This is a great opportunity. Please share with others!
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| Arc Says Support HB 174
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| Wednesday, July 29, 2009 |
Ralph Martire, Center for Tax and Budget Accountability, states, "That the new state budget is overly reliant on debt and one-time revenue." In fact he points out this budget is has $5.6 billion in one time revenue! So if we think this budget is bad, wait until next year!
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| Arc and Budget Cuts Will Push Lives Into the Shadows
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| Tuesday, July 28, 2009 |
Little has changed in Illinois in the short time I was off last week. I was talking to Leader Cross's Chief of Staff Matt O'Shea and he told me that House Republicans interested in human services met with Governor on Thursday. The agenda was about budget cuts to human services and delays in payments to community providers . . .
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| Arc and Difficult Budget Decisions
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| Tuesday, July 28, 2009 |
Senator Heather Steans and Representative Kathy Ryg are two legislators we do quite a lot of work with; here are their perspectives on the newly revised state budget.
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| Arc and Housing Bill to Aid People with Disabilities
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| Tuesday, July 28, 2009 |
By a vote of 376-51, the House of Representatives passed the Frank Melville Supportive Housing Investment Act of 2009 (H.R. 1675) which will significantly reform the Section 811 program. Its new demonstration program will triple the number of units to be built through use of other federal or state funds . . .
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| Arc and When Services End
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| Tuesday, July 28, 2009 |
The Arc's staff have developed this brochure to assist individuals and families losing services in these difficult times.
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| Arc Meets with Governor's Staff
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| Monday, July 20, 2009 |
Phil and I met for an hour and a half today with Jack Lavin, the Governor's Chief of Staff for Operations, and Michelle Saddler, Policy Director for the Governor. Our objective was to talk about the new state budget . . .
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| Arc and We Must Continue Our Efforts!
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| Friday, July 17, 2009 |
I am going to take a few days off except for Monday when Phil and I will meet with Jack Lavin the Governors Chief of Staff for Operations. One thing that is very clear is that we cannot let up in our efforts to get legislators to do their jobs . . .
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| Arc and New State Budget
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| Thursday, July 16, 2009 |
The budget that passed last night is similar to what I had written to you yesterday. The Governor is expected to sign the budget.
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| Arc Update on New State Budget Being Considered
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| Wednesday, July 15, 2009 |
We have been talking to the Governor's office, Democrats and Republicans and the news is not good for us in the short term!
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| Arc and The Effects of the Current State Budget on Real People
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| Wednesday, July 15, 2009 |
This memo is from Arc Board Members Ellen Bronfeld and Brian Rubin. What makes this worse is these are the cuts we know of and there are many more that have not been identified!
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| Arc Update
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| Tuesday, July 14, 2009 |
When legislators get to the Capitol today, they will go into caucus . . .
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| Arc and Lawmakers to Take One More Try
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| Tuesday, July 14, 2009 |
I tried to send this earlier this morning but something is wrong with our system. The Governor and the Legislative Leaders met this morning and legislators are coming to the Capitol now.
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| Arc and Legislators Must Stop Campaigning and Pass a Budget
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| Monday, July 13, 2009 |
Call your legislators on Monday! Tell them its time to restore the cuts to human services including the grants!
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| Arc and Stories From the Front
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| Monday, July 13, 2009 |
We need to put a face on our important issues! The following stories are real and show that the budget situation is causing great pain!
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| Arc and In Budget Limbo, IL Agencies Begin Cutting Back
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| Monday, July 13, 2009 |
The Governor and the Legislative Leaders are scheduled to meet today to map out their strategy for the special session this week in the Capitol. Legislators return on Tuesday.
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| Arc Says Fully Fund Human Services NOW!
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| Thursday, July 09, 2009 |
Last night, I was the guest on two radio shows to talk about budget cuts to disability services: Disability Beat and MidWatch, both in Champaign . . .
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| Arc and Send Us Your Budget Cut Information Website
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| Thursday, July 09, 2009 |
I encourage you to send your information to Progress Illinois on the budget cuts. See below.
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| Arc Action Alert and Update
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| Wednesday, July 08, 2009 |
Phil and I met with Senate Republican Leader Chris Radogno this morning. We will have a similar meeting with House Republican Leader Tom Cross tomorrow . . .
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| Arc and Ligas Court Ruling Does Not Change the Facts
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| Wednesday, July 08, 2009 |
Attached is a fact sheet about the Ligas lawsuit. Equip, the ACLU and other legal advocates will redouble their efforts to give people choices in their communities!
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| Arc and Who Will You Cut?
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| Tuesday, July 07, 2009 |
I am meeting with the Officers of the Illinois Conference of Executives of The Arc, ICEARC, today to discuss our strategy for the Special Session next week.
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| Arc and DHS to Suffer $238 Million Cut
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| Tuesday, July 07, 2009 |
Governor Quinn's press conference on the additional $1 billion in cuts is set for 2:30 p.m. Yesterday the Governor met with House Democrats and Republicans from the Southern Suburbs to talk about the tax increase and new cuts to the state budget.
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| Arc and Budget Cuts Slam Programs for Vulnerable
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| Tuesday, July 07, 2009 |
Sparc is part of this story regarding budgets cuts in the Springfield area.
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| Arc and Ligas Thrown Out of Court
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| Tuesday, July 07, 2009 |
Judge Holderman threw the Ligas Class Action lawsuit out of court today! Lets hope this can be appealed.
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| Arc and Share the Pain Budget
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| Tuesday, July 07, 2009 |
Okay here is what I understand about the new cuts that the Governor is proposing. We are now without a state budget.
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| Arc and the Saga of Howe
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| Monday, July 06, 2009 |
Anne Shannon submitted her report on Howe to the Governor on June 30th . I cannot see that her recommendations would be any different from the other reports calling fo the closing of Howe. I'm not sure if this report will be made public.
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| Arc Letters to the Editor!
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| Monday, July 06, 2009 |
A slew of letters to the editors follow. Keep up the good work!
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| Arc and Happy 4th of July
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| Friday, July 03, 2009 |
I appreciate Ellen's leadership by sharing her personal story in this time of great need.
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| Arc and Please Think of My Son and Others Like Him
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| Friday, July 03, 2009 |
Thank you Brian.
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| Arc and Ligas Update on Fairness Hearing
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| Thursday, July 02, 2009 |
It was a strange day at the Fairness Hearing for the Ligas Consent Decree. About 200 people were crammed into two courtrooms for the hearing which lasted the entire day. U.S. District Judge Holderman stated that he had never seen so many individuals show up for a Fairness Hearing.
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| Arc and Letter to Gov on the Veto of the Doomsday Budget
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| Thursday, July 02, 2009 |
This letter was sent to Governor Quinn and the Legislative Leaders today.
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| The Arc of Illinois Legislative Alerts |
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| Arc Action Ideas on Cuts to Human Services
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| Thursday, July 02, 2009 |
This morning The Arc Board, Staff and Exec's met to discuss next steps in restoring the cuts to human services.Here are some things you can be doing as the Human Services Coalition crafts its statewide plan.
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| Issues of the Day |
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| Arc and Gov Threatens Veto
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| Wednesday, July 01, 2009 |
In case you were unable to hear the Governor's speech to the Senate and House members, it was a very good speech directed at legislators and what they need to do to solve our budget problems in Illinois.
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| Arc and Time to Regroup!
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| Wednesday, July 01, 2009 |
We need to regroup! This morning I was trying to make sense about the budget meltdown that occurred in the Capitol yesterday. The Senate failed to pass the $2.2 billion borrowing bill approved by the House and the Governor closed the door on a one month budget which would restore the cuts to your services.
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| Arc and Gov Vetoes State Budget
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| Wednesday, July 01, 2009 |
Here is a summary of the Governor's press conference. It was a good press conference and the Governor did the right thing!
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| Arc Alert on Doomsday Budget Override
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| Wednesday, July 01, 2009 |
Another thing we have to be extremely worried about is the possible override of the "doomsday" budget which Governor Quinn vetoed today, Senate Bill 1197. We cannot let legislators even consider this as an option!
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| Arc and Few Options Remain
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| Tuesday, June 30, 2009 |
As advocates held vigils around the state, the House voted to borrow $2.2 billion mainly to restore human services cuts. Even with the borrowing the cuts could be as much as 30%! The Senate is also expected to concur with the House later today, the final day of the fiscal year.
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| Arc and Possible Court Action
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| Tuesday, June 30, 2009 |
Legal advocates are working on strtegy's to prevent the "doomsday" budget from being implemented. Consider sending the declaration to Equip for Equality first thing this morning. See below.
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| Arc and Letter to Governor Quinn
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| Tuesday, June 30, 2009 |
Following is a letter I faxed to Governor Quinn this morning.
Call your legislators!
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| Arc and Equip Files Lawsuit and Gov to Speak to Joint Session
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| Tuesday, June 30, 2009 |
We expect the Senate to pass the borrowing of $2.2 billion later today. It is now being discussed in the Senate Executive Committee. These funds which will be directed at "community-based human services" will only fund us at 70%! We need 100% restoration!
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| Arc and Illinois Kicks Disabled Out of Wheelchairs Again
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| Monday, June 29, 2009 |
I am heading down to the Capitol to see if lawmakers can agree upon a full year's budget and restore all of the cuts to human services. They have many options but the one I think will prevail will be a short-term fix with some borrowing to restore most of the cuts. They will then head out of town and revisit the budget in the Fall Veto Session. Time will tell!
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| Arc Action Alert Call Legislators Today to Restore Cuts
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| Monday, June 29, 2009 |
Legislators continue to work on a band aid solution as they attempt to restore the cuts to human services. We need long-term new revenue such as House Bill 174.
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| Arc and State Budget Mess
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| Monday, June 29, 2009 |
This really is a big week for disability advocates. Not only are legislators returning to the Capitol to work on restoring cuts to human services but Anne Shannon will deliver her recommendations to Governor Quinn on the state institution Howe in Tinley Park.
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| Arc and People with Disabilities Caught in the Middle
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| Saturday, June 27, 2009 |
Front page of the Peoria Journal Star! Nice work Charlotte!
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| Arc Update and a Disgraceful Budget
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| Friday, June 26, 2009 |
Yesterday late afternoon I was able to attend a solemn vigil at Seguin Services in Cicero. About 100 advocates gathered to pray together to save our services. Clergy, people with disabilities, families and advocates were very powerful. They will be there until the end of the fiscal year on Tuesday, June 30th. The vigil is held twice a day at 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily. Join them if you can.
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| Arc Legal Action Being Considered
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| Friday, June 26, 2009 |
We have been talking to legal advocates about possible action against the "doomsday" budget.
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| Arc and Vigil for Human Care Planned in Capitol
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| Friday, June 26, 2009 |
A Vigil is being planed for Human Care at the State Capitol and the Thompson Center. See details below.
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| Arc and Deadline Schmedline Today's Chicago Tribune Editorial
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| Friday, June 26, 2009 |
Wow! What a day at Park Lawn today! About 350 families, individuals with disabilities and advocates showed up at our Legislative Forum! It was a positive give and take between the Senators and Representatives present with the audience. Hats off to Brendan McCormick and Jim Weise for putting this forum together.
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| Arc and Services on the Brink! MUST READ - ACTION REQUIRED!
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| Thursday, June 25, 2009 |
This morning Secretary Adams invited Execs from statewide associations to have an in depth discussion about the doomsday budget and other scenarios that are currently on the table. And there are many.
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| Arc Documents from Secretary Adams on Doomsday Budget
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| Thursday, June 25, 2009 |
This is what I was briefed on today by Secretary Adams and her staff.
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| Arc and What Did the Protesters Do?
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| Wednesday, June 24, 2009 |
What a day it was! Estimates of 5,000 or more jammed into the Capitol for the Human Services Rally. This was the first time I can remember that they closed admissions into the Capitol because the crowd was so big!
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| Arc Rallies, Petitions and Media Updates
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| Wednesday, June 24, 2009 |
You have been doing a fantastic job with the media and working with other human services organizations.
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| Arc and Hynes Says Quinn Inconsistent on Budget Problems
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| Wednesday, June 24, 2009 |
You may have heard about Comptroller's Hynes letter to Governor Quinn recommending less drastic cuts to human services and that legislators pass a 60 day budget. Then the Governor and the Legislative Leaders could build a full years state budget.
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| Arc and Mundelein Forum for Today Cancelled
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| Wednesday, June 24, 2009 |
This forum has been cancelled.
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| Arc and Lawmakers Leave Town - Set Up Budget Showdown Next Week
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| Wednesday, June 24, 2009 |
It looks like the Governor and the Legislative Leaders may be making some progress in the budget talks. They are however waiting until the last possible moment to act. Let's hope they keep working together and restore the cuts to human services. Time will tell.
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| Arc and Social Service Agencies Hope for Big Rally Turnout
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| Tuesday, June 23, 2009 |
Advocates are filing into the Capitol right now for what could be one of the largest rally legislators have seen in years . . .
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| Arc and State Budget Needs to Care for the Needy and Disabled
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| Tuesday, June 23, 2009 |
Deb Fornoff, Arc Staffer in our Life Span Program, made the Peoria paper today! Nice job Deb and very well said!
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| Arc and Nowhere To Go and No One To Help Them
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| Monday, June 22, 2009 |
Today there is another rally at the Thompson and tomorrow I head back to Springfield for the Human Services Coalition Rally with Governor Quinn . . .
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| Arc and Leaders Have Not Changed Minds on Tax Increase
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| Monday, June 22, 2009 |
Eight days to go until the end of the fiscal year and it sounds like legislators are not going to vote on new revenue! See story below.
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| Arc and Information on Human Services Rally in the Capitol on Tuesday
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| Monday, June 22, 2009 |
Here is the latest information on tomorrows Human Services Rally in the Capitol.
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| Arc and S.O.S. - Save Our Services
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| Monday, June 22, 2009 |
Here are some excellent interviews about the "doomsday" budget. Do not miss the S.O.S. youtube video below.
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| Arc and Court Says Public Must Pay for Private Special Ed
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| Monday, June 22, 2009 |
See story below.
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| Arc and Sample Appeal Letter if You Get Notice of Services Ending
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| Monday, June 22, 2009 |
Here is a template of a written appeal letter you should send if you get official notification that your services are either being terminated of reduced. Also attached.
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| Arc and This State is Sick!
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| Saturday, June 20, 2009 |
I had the opportunity to meet with Governor Quinn today because of an event the was hosted by Kristin MacRAE, President of CARC. There were also with many other disability advocates in attendance as well. Kristin and her team did an excellent job of stating the crisis we are facing in the human services community. Governor Quinn's message was clear and to the point, legislators have not finished their jobs and they need to return to the Capitol to support new revenue . . .
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| Arc and Rock Island Rally Monday
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| Saturday, June 20, 2009 |
Sorry, I almost missed this one!
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| Arc Important Info on Your DHS Contracts from Director Teninty
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| Friday, June 19, 2009 |
Some of you may be thinking that you should not sign your contract but rather wait and see what the General Assembly will do between now and July 1st. My advice to you is that you sign your contract with the cuts and know that should a new budget and new resources be approved, your contract will be amended. (See Memo below)
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| Arc and Legislators are Funding Lincoln!!!
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| Friday, June 19, 2009 |
I cannot believe this! With all of the chaos going on here in Illinois, we have discovered that there is $613,706 in the Capital bill for Lincoln!
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| Arc New Updated Rally and Legislative Forum List
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| Friday, June 19, 2009 |
You folks are terrific!!! This is a new and updated list of some of the rally's and media events I am aware of, sorry if I have missed any, I am running as fast as I can . . .
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| Arc and Forcing Needy Citizens to Beg for Help
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| Thursday, June 18, 2009 |
Excellent commentary by Phil Kadner in the Daily Southtown.
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| Arc and You Have the Right to Appeal Termination of Services
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| Thursday, June 18, 2009 |
All right now, damn it! We are not just going to sit passively by and let our services be taken away from us! We have some rights here!
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| Arc Rally Updates and Cuts Would Decimate Human Services
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| Thursday, June 18, 2009 |
You folks are doing a fantastic job! Rallies all over the state about the cuts to human services are drawing extremely large crowds!
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| Arc Media Coverage on Cuts and Rallies for Human Services
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| Wednesday, June 17, 2009 |
Below is some news coverage from Springfield and McHenry County about cuts to disability and human services.
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| Arc Updated Rallies and Legislative Forums
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| Wednesday, June 17, 2009 |
Governor Quinn will be attending some of the human services rallies below. Keep up the great work!!! This is a new and updated list of some of the rally's and media events I am aware of . . .
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| Arc and Vigil of Hope and Prayer
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| Wednesday, June 17, 2009 |
John Voit, Exec at Seguin Services and his team are holding a "Vigil of Hope and Prayer" at their main office. See additional information . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Holding Them Hostage
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| Wednesday, June 17, 2009 |
Arc Board Member Ellen Garber Bronfeld made the Chicago Tribune today!
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| Arc and Disability Budget Cuts and Budget Briefing on Your Computer
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| Tuesday, June 16, 2009 |
It was a shocking day yesterday as families and providers got notice that their programs were being eliminated or reduced by as much as 50%. One of our Exec's asked how do you provide 24 hour community living when you are told your rates will be reduced by 30%? Services funded by the Division of Rehabilitation Services were reduced by 50% . . .
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| Arc Media Tips and Lawmakers Need to Stop Playing Games with People's Lives
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| Tuesday, June 16, 2009 |
Human service advocates are rallying around the state to combat cuts to human services. We need the media in this effort because next to a personal visit, legislators look to the news media to determine important issues within their districts . . .
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| Arc Memo on Govs Budget Briefing and More Cuts
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| Tuesday, June 16, 2009 |
Here are the handouts from the Governor's budget briefing. If this budget is signed into law we will witness the demise of the entire human service safety network!
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| Arc and Sharing the Pain
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| Monday, June 15, 2009 |
We met with the editorial board of the Chicago Tribune last week. They picked up on many of our issues but they did not call for a tax increase. This is from Sundays Chicago Tribune!
more >> |
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| Arc and Govs Budget Briefing on Tuesday June 16
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| Monday, June 15, 2009 |
Please note the change of location from Saturdays memo. This is not a mass rally but a budget briefing.
more >> |
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| Arc and Is The Sky Really Falling This Time Gov?
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| Monday, June 15, 2009 |
Excellent column from Kristen McQueary at the Southtown Star.
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| Arc and Letters from Families on Budget Cuts
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| Monday, June 15, 2009 |
Here are three powerful letters to the editor from family members over the cuts to human services.
more >> |
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| Arc and Gov Calling for Public Budget Briefing
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| Saturday, June 13, 2009 |
This meeting is not confirmed at this time.
more >> |
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| Arc and Doomsday Cuts are Here! Time for Action!
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| Friday, June 12, 2009 |
The following memo from Director Teninty is being sent to regarding specific cuts to community services/supports for FY 2010.
more >> |
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| Arc and Lets Not Forget Our Supporters
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| Friday, June 12, 2009 |
Let us not forget those that supported the tax increase in the Illinois House of Representatives. We are going to need them again! I sent this letter to the 42 legislator that supported us today!
more >> |
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| Arc Legislative Targets for Doomsday Budget
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| Friday, June 12, 2009 |
Okay, here are the targeted members in the Illinois House. We need them to support an income tax increase and to not vote on any state budget that cuts disability or human services!
more >> |
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| Arc and Disability Advocates Rally Around the State
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| Thursday, June 11, 2009 |
Yesterday advocates held rallies to oppose the cuts to human services were held in Rockford, Danville and Mt. Vernon!
more >> |
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| Arc and Lawmakers Tell the Needy to Take a Hike
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| Thursday, June 11, 2009 |
Here is some press coverage from Richard Roper's Column (way to go Richard!) in the Chicago Sun Times and in Mt. Vernon on the budget cuts.
more >> |
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| Arc to Elect New Board Members
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| Thursday, June 11, 2009 |
I am delighted to inform you of our new slate of nominees for The Arc of Illinois Board of Directors which will be voted on Saturday.
more >> |
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| Arc Talking Points on Doomsday Budget Cuts
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| Wednesday, June 10, 2009 |
Human Services advocates met with the Editorial Board of the Chicago Tribune yesterday. We discussed the impact the "doomsday" budget would have on human services and it was not a pretty picture! It was an excellent exchange between the board and advocates. We met for over an hour!
more >> |
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| Arc Update and Social Service Advocates Predict Disaster
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| Monday, June 08, 2009 |
This week the Governor will meet with the Legislative Leaders to discuss reform and new revenue. Right now the Gov's staff is looking at different variations of budget cuts to human services if the Gov and the Legislative Leaders cannot reach agreement this week . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Pork & Priorities
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| Friday, June 05, 2009 |
Powerful editorial from the Chicago Tribune, "There's something very wrong when the state can find millions to provide better accommodations for the lions, tigers and bears while its disabled and impoverished citizens twist in the wind."
more >> |
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| Arc Action Alert on Budget Cuts & Legislative Targets
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| Friday, June 05, 2009 |
Please share this with everyone you know. This is also attached as a Word document. Massive budget cuts to direct services for infants, children and adults with disabilities will be going into effect July 1, 2009 unless legislators vote for new revenue to cover an $8.5 billion statewide deficit!
more >> |
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| Arc and State Officials Talk About Layoffs
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| Friday, June 05, 2009 |
Here is a good summary of yesterdays meeting with the Governor and the Legislative Leaders. Among other things layoffs of state employees are now on the table.
more >> |
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| Arc and Disability Advocates Rally Over Budget Cuts
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| Friday, June 05, 2009 |
There was a huge rally at the Thompson Center as the Governor and the Legislative Leaders met to discuss cuts to the proposed budget and new revenue. The Gov and the Leaders could not avoid the disability advocates . . .
more >> |
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| Arc Join Me to Talk About Restoring Budget Cuts with Rep. Ford
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| Friday, June 05, 2009 |
I have been invited to be a guest on Rep Ford's talk radio show WVON 1690 AM, Sunday, June 7th at 9:00 p.m. Rep Ford had the courage to vote for an income tax increase last week. Please support his efforts to support us!
more >> |
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| Arc and Quinn's Wrong Targets
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| Thursday, June 04, 2009 |
The Legislative Leaders and the Governor will meet today in Chicago to discuss balancing a state budget. The Republican leadership has been asking for spending and ethics reform before they will consider new revenue. Today's editorial in the Chicago Tribune gives us some further insight into the reforms the Republicans may be considering about budget reforms.
more >> |
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| Arc and Cuts to Community Services Getting Worse by the Day
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| Wednesday, June 03, 2009 |
We had a very informative meeting today with Representative Kathy Ryg, Director Lilia Teninty and Phil Milsk, Arc Governmental Affairs Consultant with about 40 Exec's in The Arc. The main topic was the new state budget. The message about the new state budget is worse than we thought . . .
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| Arc and DDD Budget Status Update
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| Tuesday, June 02, 2009 |
Here is a memo from Director about the budget status of the Division of Developmental Disabilities. I know the Director and her staff are working very hard to get you the specific information on how this new state budget effects the people served and your organization . . .
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| Arc and Fighting Back - The Battle Begins
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| Tuesday, June 02, 2009 |
Today I will meet with Anne Shannon to discuss the situation at Howe in Tinley Park. Anne will report and make recommendations to Governor Quinn on the future of Howe by the end of June. Tomorrow I head to Chicago for the monthly meeting with the Illinois Conference of Executives of The Arc.
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| Arc and People Will Suffer Under This Budget
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| Monday, June 01, 2009 |
Legislators shirked their responsibilities in the Capitol and passed a lump sum budget that could require cuts of 50%. Budget details will be left to state agency directors to manage! The budget is Senate Bill 1197 . . .
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| Arc Alert - We Need To Educate Legislators Who Voted No
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| Monday, June 01, 2009 |
I know some of you are very angry about the state budget that was passed last night. We need to remain calm and develop a plan to educate legislators about the importance of the services we provide and the staff who work so hard . . .
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| Arc and Budget Cuts
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| Monday, June 01, 2009 |
Many of you have been asking me about cuts to services because of the new state budget shortfall. Because legislators passed a lump sum budget, there were no line items to view . . .
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| Arc Alert - Call House Members Today!
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| Sunday, May 31, 2009 |
There is no budget agreement between the Senate and the House. The Senate did pass a permanent income tax increase of 2% and other tax increases. It is House Bill 174. The fate of HB 174 in the House is unknown but for us this is the best new revenue source out there!
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| URGENT Arc Action - HB 174 Passes Committee
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| Sunday, May 31, 2009 |
House Bill 174 passed out of committee this afternoon by a vote of 11 for, 6 against and 2 voting present. All Democrats voted for HB 174 with all Republicans voting against or present . . .
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| Arc and No Movement on Tax Plan or Budget
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| Saturday, May 30, 2009 |
We need to see progress today or overtime is looking like a very real possibility and everyone loses . . .
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| Arc Action Required on Doomsday Budget - Last Chance!
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| Friday, May 29, 2009 |
We have learned that support for a tax increase has dried up! Neither Democrats nor Republicans want to increase the income tax. The Leaders have met with the Governor and a budget without new revenues will be introduced this weekend.
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| Arc and Votes Short for Tax Hike
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| Friday, May 29, 2009 |
Things will heat up today and you need to call your legislators. We cannot survive with $7 billion in cuts to the budget if no tax increase is approved . . .
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| Arc Update and Blueprint Resolutions on Their Way to the Governor
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| Friday, May 29, 2009 |
Two revenue bills have now popped up on the income tax increase but no one has seen the doomsday budget. Legislators have not even seen the "doomsday" budget! I just do not understand why the Legislative Leaders and the Governor are keeping legislators in the dark. Most want to see if cuts are restored before they vote on a budget . . .
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| Arc and House Adjourns for the Day - No Budget Yet
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| Friday, May 29, 2009 |
It is accepted that the Senate is awaiting for any new tax increase that passes the House before it starts its work on the budget . . .
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| Arc and State Needs Better Plan for Disabled
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| Thursday, May 28, 2009 |
Representative Kathy Ryg, Director Romano, Activist Sarah Castle, Advocate Misty White and I met with the Editorial Board of the State Journal Register and the following is the editorial in today's paper. The timing of this editorial could not be better!
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| Arc and Gloomy Budget Situation Evolving
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| Thursday, May 28, 2009 |
We are hearing now that the House will run two state budgets today. One budget would include a income tax increase and the other would be a "doomsday" budget with egregious cuts. No one has seen either budget at this time. The legislators will then choose which budget to vote for!
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| Arc and Legislature Ponders Possibility of Massive Budget Cuts
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| Wednesday, May 27, 2009 |
The Governor and the Legislative Leaders met to work on the state budget but no progress was made. They intend to meet once again today. The leaders are saying they do not have the votes to pass the Governor's income tax increase. Without that increase billions will have to be cut out of the budget . . .
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| Arc and Need Some Furniture?
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| Wednesday, May 27, 2009 |
Our good friend Beth Lacy may have a great opportunity for you if you need good furnishings at great prices for your group homes or offices . . .
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| Arc and Overtime Summer in the Capitol?
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| Wednesday, May 27, 2009 |
First of all, thank you! Legislators are being flooded with calls asking them to increase revenue and not cut human services! Keep the pressure up! . . .
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| Arc and Doomsday Budget & Final Week of the Legislative Session
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| Tuesday, May 26, 2009 |
This is it, the final week of the legislative session! The biggest vote for disability services will be the vote on an increase in the state's income tax . . .
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| Arc and Why Cuts Won't Balance State Budget
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| Tuesday, May 26, 2009 |
Advocates reached agreement with Director Teninty that the $13 million in stimulus funds would be used for . . .
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| Arc and Cafe Offers World of Opportunity
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| Tuesday, May 26, 2009 |
We were very pleased to give Jacob Metrick an Arc Award at our state convention for starting the Perk Center Café!
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| Arc and Blueprint Resolution Passes House Committee
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| Friday, May 22, 2009 |
Our House Join Resolution 28 passed out of the Disability Services Committee last night by a vote of 6-0! Rep Kathy Ryg was the Chief Co-Sponsor. The resolution now moves to the floor of the House. Thank you for your help on this resolution . . .
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| Arc and NADS Exec Position Opening
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| Friday, May 22, 2009 |
Our good friend and great advocate Sheila Hebein will be retiring as the Executive Director of NADS . . .
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| Arc and Rally Day Photos
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| Friday, May 22, 2009 |
What a great day we had in the Capitol for our Annual Disability Rally . . .
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| Arc and Urgent Action Required or Services Could Be Cut By 50%
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| Friday, May 22, 2009 |
Would you survive if your State-funded services were cut by 40% - 50%? That is the situation we are now faced with without an increase in the income tax, absent new revenues to close a huge hole in the operating budget. The current budgets now on the table indicate a shortfall of anywhere from a $4 to $6 billion deficit unless new revenues are voted on.
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| Arc and Freedom Quest Riders in the Capitol!
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| Thursday, May 21, 2009 |
Holy cow what a day we had yesterday and today is going to be even better. The Freedom Quest Riders hit the Capitol at 10:00 this morning . . .
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| Arc and Grim Day at the Capitol
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| Wednesday, May 20, 2009 |
It was a grim day in the Capitol yesterday. Legislators are concerned about voting for a tax increase and rumors abound that another "doomsday" budget is being crafted in the House. WE NEED NEW REVENUE!!!
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| Arc and Freedom Quest Fights for Equal Opportunities
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| Wednesday, May 20, 2009 |
Here is the first story on the Freedom Quest Riders who will join us in the Capitol tomorrow! Very cool!
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| Arc and It's Time to Take Action
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| Tuesday, May 19, 2009 |
Legislators don't seem too upset with the Governor's "Doomsday" Budget with its 37% cuts to human services and everything else but I am. Can people really think we can cut our way out of the budget mess? . . .
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| Arc Capitol Update May 18
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| Monday, May 18, 2009 |
This could be a critical week for the new state budget. Last night in Springfield the Legislative Leaders met to work out revenue for a new capital bill. I expect to see more meetings on the state budget this week as well . . .
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| Arc Rally Day Materials and Talking Points
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| Monday, May 18, 2009 |
Our Rally Day at the Capitol could not have been better planned! We will be in the Capitol when legislators are considering the new state budget!Here are your fact sheets for our Rally Day on Thursday!
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| Arc and HB 758 on to Governor Quinn
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| Monday, May 18, 2009 |
House Bill 758 passed the Senate 51-0 on Friday and is now on its way to Governor Quinn! This will be new funds for the waiting list and community services . . .
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| Arc and Gov Quinn Says Hike Tax or Slash Spending 37%
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| Monday, May 18, 2009 |
I have been telling you about a "doomsday" budget for a while, well this afternoon, Governor Quinn released the cuts to services that will be taken if legislators do not support increased revenues . . .
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| Arc and Deeper Budget Cuts Cannot Be Made
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| Thursday, May 14, 2009 |
Governor Quinn is right, the answer is new revenue, not budget cuts! Our legislators need to hear from you that we need tax reform, not budget cuts.
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| Arc Transition Bill Passes and More
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| Thursday, May 14, 2009 |
Our House Joint Resolution 28 (Rep Ryg) on the DDD Seven Year Plan will be heard in the House Disability Committee, Wednesday, May 20, 2:00 p.m. in Room C-1 of the Stratton Building. Thanks to you, we now have 40 sponsors of this resolution. Senate Joint Resolution 30 (Senator Steans) will probably be heard next week but it is not posted at this time.
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| Arc Capitol Update - May 13
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| Wednesday, May 13, 2009 |
A great victory for advocates this morning when the House Executive Committee failed to pass SB 327, the institutional closer bill. The bill will remain in committee unless there are further discussions or possible amendments. Thank you for your calls and letters on this bill. There is a companion bill now on the floor of the Senate awaiting further discussions with the advocates and the Governor's office. Summary of these bills follow.
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| Arc and News Stories That Trivialize Abuse at Howe
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| Tuesday, May 12, 2009 |
I find the following two stories from the Southtown offensive. They trivialize the 31 deaths as well as health and safety conditions that lead the federal government to decertify Howe.
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| Arc Capital Opportunities and Legislation This Week
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| Tuesday, May 12, 2009 |
The Legislative Leaders did meet yesterday, but most of the talk was about a capital bill.We had an excellent meeting with Jack Lavin, Chief Operating Officer for Governor Quinn . . .
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| Arc Rally Day Information
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| Tuesday, May 12, 2009 |
Our rally in the Capitol is just nine days away, Thursday, May 21st!
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| Arc Meeting with Governors Staff
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| Monday, May 11, 2009 |
Today I head to Chicago to meet with Jack Lavin, Chief Operating Officer, for Governor Quinn. Jack is the lead person for the Governor on the economic stimulus package for Illinois . . .
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| Arc Capitol Update and Gov Nears 100 Days
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| Friday, May 08, 2009 |
The House Appropriations Human Services Committee heard 4 ½ hours of testimony from human service advocates. In addition to my written testimony I made a strong plea for new revenue to support all human services in Illinois . . .
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| Arc Annual Award Winners
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| Friday, May 08, 2009 |
Here is a list of The Arc's Annual Awards presented at this year's convention. Congratulations to all!
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| Arc and Closing Howe is an Opportunity for Real Reform
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| Friday, May 08, 2009 |
Here is an excellent Op Ed in the Daily Southtown from Sheila Romano, Director of the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities.
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| Arc and DDD Memo to Residential Providers on the Federal Stimulus Payments
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| Friday, May 08, 2009 |
Many individuals are now receiving their one-time $250 because of the ARRA. The following memo from Director Teninty states this income is not to be reported on the ROCS system.
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| Arc and Doomsday Budget Floated
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| Thursday, May 07, 2009 |
Things are getting hot in the Capitol. The Governor's office is floating a doomsday budget with massive cuts if legislators do not get on board with tax reform. In the House, legislators are being asked where they think additional budget cuts need occur in the state budget.
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| Arc Testimony on Developmental Disability Budget
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| Wednesday, May 06, 2009 |
Attached is my revised testimony for the House Appropriations Human Services Committee. Feel free to share with others.
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| Arc and Sean Inspires Others
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| Tuesday, May 05, 2009 |
Yesterday I was invited up to Crystal Lake to meet with advocates about Arc legislation and the "Blueprint." Thank you Cindy Sullivan! . . .
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| Arc and Gov Picks Adviser to Review Howe
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| Tuesday, May 05, 2009 |
I reported to you last week that Anne Shannon would be hired as a consultant to advise the Governor on the situation at Howe. We respect Anne Shannon and what she brings to the table, but the time to shutter Howe is long past . . .
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| Arc Legislative Update - May 1st
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| Friday, May 01, 2009 |
We had quite a week in the Capitol! Our appropriations and resolutions are getting a great reception in both the House and Senate so thank you for your advocacy on those legislative initiatives. Charlotte Cronin has updated the legislators who have signed on as co-sponsors, her memo follows below so you can see if your legislators have signed on. Thanks Charlotte!
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| Arc and Gov Still Has Final Say and More!
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| Wednesday, April 29, 2009 |
Busy day in the Capitol yesterday! While the Commission on Government Forecasting & Accountability voted to recommend the closing of Howe, the Governor still has the final say . . .
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| Committee Looks to Close Howe
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| Tuesday, April 28, 2009 |
A very important moment for disability advocates today when the committee that has an advisory role on the closure of state institutions voted 9 to 3 to recommend the closure of the state institution Howe in Tinley Park . . .
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| Arc Testimony on DDD Budget
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| Monday, April 27, 2009 |
I was in Watseka this morning meeting with Christine McTaggart. Christine is the new Executive Director of The Arc of Iroquois County! Tomorrow I head to the Capitol. This week the Senate and the House will hold hearings on the Department of Human Services budget. I have attached my testimony for the Senate Appropriations I Committee which will be held Tuesday, April 28th at 4:00 p.m., Room 212 in the Capitol . . .
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| Action Needed on HB3841
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| Monday, April 27, 2009 |
We have an opportunity in the Senate to add $162.15 million to improve services for children and adults with developmental disabilities . . .
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| Arc and Family Claims Police Beat Teenager with Autism
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| Saturday, April 25, 2009 |
Important story from the Chicago Tribune.
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| Arc Update
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| Friday, April 24, 2009 |
I am heading this morning to meet with Reps Bellock, Ryg and other disability advocates to work on our rally in the Capitol on May 21st. We need a show of power on that day so you need to make plans now to attend. We have invited the Governor to welcome advocates to the Capitol at 10:00 a.m. be there!
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| Arc and DDD Budget Hearing Scheduled for Next Week - Action Required
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| Thursday, April 23, 2009 |
Well I am back from our wonderful state convention! Thanks to all of you who attended and special thanks to our co-sponsor, The Autism Program! I know these are difficult times and I sincerely appreciate your support by attending the Annual Arc/TAP Convention. Now on to other important business . . .
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| Arc and Self-Advocacy Group Marks Third Year
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| Monday, April 20, 2009 |
We are heading to Lisle today to set up for the convention which begins tomorrow. You can still register at the door for convention if you wish. We have a great line up of speakers and presentations. See you then! Story follows about the Self-Advocacy Council of Northern Illinois. You can meet Cathy and Jason at the convention.
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| Arc Plan for Legislative Action
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| Monday, April 20, 2009 |
Legislators return to the Capitol tomorrow and have until May 31st to pass a state budget and capital plan.It is now time to talk to your legislators about supporting and becoming co-sponsors for our two appropriation bills and the two "Blueprint" resolutions . . .
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| Arc and Dad Finally Gains Access to Kids School Events
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| Thursday, April 16, 2009 |
Here is a summary of a successful outcome of a complaint filed by Equip for Equality from Barry Taylor.
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| Arc Mid-Session Summary of Disability & Related Legislation
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| Wednesday, April 15, 2009 |
Here are our most recent new public acts and a summary of disability legislation in both the House and Senate.
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| Arc and New Position Openings
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| Wednesday, April 15, 2009 |
Please circulate these two position openings to interested individuals.
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| Arc and Bullies, Cowards, and Those Who Fight
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| Monday, April 13, 2009 |
Today I head to Chicago Heights to meet with the new Senator from the 40th District Toi Hutchinson. Senator Hutchinson replaced Senator Debbie Halvorson who now serves us in Washington D.C. Topics for discussion include our appropriation bills and the "Blueprint." . . .
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| Arc Convention Next Week!
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| Monday, April 13, 2009 |
The Arc of Illinois and TAP Annual Convention begins one week from tomorrow. Join us at the Hilton Lisle an outstanding program . . .
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| Arc and Financial Health of Illinois Nonprofits
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| Monday, April 13, 2009 |
Here is a summary of financial health of Illinois nonprofits from the Illinois Facility Fund and related story from Illinois Issues.
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| A Time for Action for Arc Members
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| Friday, April 10, 2009 |
Legislators are taking two weeks off for a Spring break and during this break I have been meeting with Arc leaders and legislators in their local offices. This week I have been to Utica, Kankakee and Rockford. I have been advocating for local actions on the "Blueprint" and updates on The Arc of the United States. I hope to be in your area in the next few weeks . . .
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| Arc Fact Sheets for Action by Members
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| Friday, April 10, 2009 |
Here is the information on the Fact Sheets I shared with you Friday morning. Charlotte put this together and she did it better than I ever could so thank you Charlotte Cronin! . . .
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| Arc and Blueprint Presentation in Crystal Lake
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| Wednesday, April 08, 2009 |
If you cannot make it to The Arc Convention, here is a meeting to learn about the "Blueprint."
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| Arc Convention Two Weeks Away
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| Wednesday, April 08, 2009 |
Two weeks from today will you be at The Arc's Annual Convention? . . .
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| Arc and Community Funding Bill Passes the House - HB3841
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| Wednesday, April 08, 2009 |
I think this is incredible and a testament to your good work with our legislators! . . .
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| Arc and Governor Quinn Leans on Honest Image
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| Tuesday, April 07, 2009 |
I will on the road meeting with legislators and our chapter leaders this week and next talking about the "Blueprint" and other important issues. Here is an interesting story about Governor Quinn and his background from the State Journal Register.
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| Arc and Oppose HB 1602
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| Tuesday, April 07, 2009 |
We need your help! Senate Bill 1602 is a bad bill for community organizations supporting individuals with disabilities. We are working in collaboration with IARF and CBHA and other groups to put further limitations in this bill. We need you to contact Senator Harmon and Representative Franks about problems with SB 1602. See information below from Phil.
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| Arc Legislative Update - Some Good and Some Bad News
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| Friday, April 03, 2009 |
An important special education bill, House Bill 628, passed late last night out of the House. HB 628 would make special education due process proceedings fairer for parents by allowing access for expert witness, parents in the school and recovering the costs of expert witness . . .
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| Arc and Disability Advocates Rally at Govs Mansion
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| Thursday, April 02, 2009 |
Disability advocates held a vigil calling for the closing of Howe at the Governor's Mansion on Tuesday evening. Following is a story from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch . . .
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| Arc Fact Sheet on Community Increases FY 91 to FY 10
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| Thursday, April 02, 2009 |
You al ready know services to individuals with disabilities in Illinois is a low priority. Our ranking of 51st is a prime indicator that no one can question . . .
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| Arc Testimony on Community Providers and New Govs Budget
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| Thursday, April 02, 2009 |
We were asked by Rep Golar to present testimony Friday on how the new Governor's proposed budget affects community providers. The Black Caucus is hosting this hearing tomorrow . . .
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| Arc and Opportunity to Host an Information Table in the Capitol
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| Tuesday, March 31, 2009 |
We are working with a wide collation of advocacy organizations across the state for a major day at the Captiol on Thursday, May 21st. Our emphasis will be on a $162.15 million ask to move people off the waiting list, improve rates to community providers and improve the community infrastructure.
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| Arc Update on Ligas Consent Decree
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| Tuesday, March 31, 2009 |
I just heard that the Judge granted preliminary approval of the Ligas Consent Decree. This is not a final ruling . . .
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| Arc Legislative Update
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| Monday, March 30, 2009 |
I met this morning with Rep Bellock and other disability advocates about our Disability Rally on May 21st. Make sure you have that date on your calendar!
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| Arc and Two Women Create a Bridge2Hope
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| Monday, March 30, 2009 |
Here is Phil Kadner's column about the advocacy of two moms and the waiting list from the Southtown.
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| Arc and Former Howe Residents Allege Abuse
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| Thursday, March 26, 2009 |
The press is picking up the Councils "Close Howe Video. " Here is a story from the Southtown and Council Director Sheila Romano, Ph.D., was interviewed yesterday by ABC News . . .
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| Arc Convention
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| Thursday, March 26, 2009 |
The Arc/TAP Convention begins Tuesday, April 21st, at the Hilton in Lisle. Attached is the brochure for the complete program and registration materials.
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| Arc Update
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| Wednesday, March 25, 2009 |
The Disability Services and Human Services Committee will hold a subject matter hearing on the PUNS Waiting List on Wednesday. It is interesting to note that there are many members of the General Assembly who were not around when The Arc passed this cross-disability legislation!
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| Arc and New Services Announced at PUNS Hearing
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| Wednesday, March 25, 2009 |
Good news at the joint House Disability & Human Services Committee hearing on the PUNS waiting list. Director Teninty announced that in April, 610 individuals will be moved off the waiting list!
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| Arc and Close Howe Video
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| Tuesday, March 24, 2009 |
The death count at Howe is now 31. The state is spending $58 million in all state funds to keep it open two years after Howe lost its federal funding because of the deaths and unsafe conditions for the residents at Howe . . .
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| Arc and Special Olympians Say Joke Sad
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| Monday, March 23, 2009 |
I was very disappointed in President Obama when he made his comment about Special Olympians on the Tonight Show. He did the right thing by apologizing but my disappointment lingers . . .
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| Arc Hearings and Senate President Talks Budget
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| Monday, March 23, 2009 |
The House Disability Services Committee has scheduled a subject matter hearing on the PUNS Waiting List for Wednesday, March 25th, 8:30 a.m., Room 115 in the Capitol . . .
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| Arc and Proposed Changes to Children's Waiver
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| Thursday, March 19, 2009 |
Before I got caught up trying to decipher the Governor's proposed budget this week, I wanted to let you know we had an excellent meeting with Director Teninty on new waiver supporting children and adults with developmental disabilities on Tuesday morning . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Two Bills Pass Out of the House
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| Thursday, March 19, 2009 |
Here is some good news from the Capitol. We passed two important bills yesterday . . .
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| Arc Revised Public Policy Platform
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| Wednesday, March 18, 2009 |
I forgot to also mention in yesterday's memo our support of The Autism Program's statewide initiative which includes HB 3896 & SB 2355!
more >> |
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| Arc and Chicago Tribune Editorial on Closing Howe
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| Wednesday, March 18, 2009 |
Here is part of a Chicago Tribune Editorial today calling for the closing of Howe . . .
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| Arc and New State Budget Process Begins Today
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| Wednesday, March 18, 2009 |
Today starts the battle to build a new state budget that no one is going to like. After the Governor's Budget Address at noon, legislators will get their chance to react and work on the state budget . . .
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| Arc and 3% Cut?
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| Wednesday, March 18, 2009 |
I'm going through the state budget right now and it is in a new and different format, so it is a little harder to read and decipher . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and State Budget Update
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| Wednesday, March 18, 2009 |
Here is some further information that I know you will be interested in . . .
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| Arc and DDD Budget Summary
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| Wednesday, March 18, 2009 |
As I look at this budget, when you consider an $11.5 bil deficit, the budget for people with disabilities and their families could have been much worse . . .
more >> |
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| Arc Editorial on Howe
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| Tuesday, March 17, 2009 |
I sent the following letter to the editor today regarding Sunday's Chicago Tribune Editorial: Gov Quinn's cut, cut, cut . . .
more >> |
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| Arc Public Policy Platform
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| Tuesday, March 17, 2009 |
As a new state budget is about to be introduced I wanted to review with you our Public Policy Agenda for 2009. Here is a summary.
more >> |
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| Arc and Draft White Paper on New Adult Waiver
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| Tuesday, March 17, 2009 |
Here is the Draft White Paper the Division of Developmental Disabilities has put together with the Ad Hoc Waiver Committee.
more >> |
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| Arc and 5% Cuts for State Agencies
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| Monday, March 16, 2009 |
Governor Quinn says state agencies will take a 5% cut in their current budgets. See story from Sunday's Chicago Tribune . . .
more >> |
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| Arc Update
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| Monday, March 16, 2009 |
We had a good week in the Capitol last week meeting some of the Governor's new staff including Jack Lavin, Chief Operating Officer, Carolyn Brown Hodge, Deputy Chief of Staff and Mike Kaminsky also got to spend a few minutes with Governor Quinn . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Spending Cuts & Pension Changes to Fill $11.5 Billion Deficit
|
| Sunday, March 15, 2009 |
More details on the new state budget and cuts from the State Journal Register . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and New Budget to Cut $850 Million
|
| Saturday, March 14, 2009 |
Governor Quinn's Chief of Staff stated on Friday that he would cut $850 million from existing programs in the current state budget . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Income Tax May Rise by 50%
|
| Friday, March 13, 2009 |
We had a pretty good week in the Capitol meeting with the Governor's staff and Senate President Cullerton . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Education Tax Bill Moves in the Senate
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| Friday, March 13, 2009 |
Senate Bill 750 moved to the Senate floor this week. This bill could be the tax increase/educational funding bill we have been talking about . . .
more >> |
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| Arc and Death & Abuse in Texas Institutions
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| Thursday, March 12, 2009 |
As Governor Quinn decides the fate of the state institution in Tinley Park, Howe, we see more of the same in Texas where 53 residents have died of preventable causes . . .
more >> |
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| Arc Update at the Capitol
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| Wednesday, March 11, 2009 |
Yesterday in the Capitol, I was asked to give testimony on reducing the state's deficit. I already sent you that testimony on Monday. At the hearing, Legislators and other speakers had a common theme . . .
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| Arc and Govs Woes May Halt Closing
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| Wednesday, December 31, 2008 |
I thought I heard on the radio today that the Governor was not going to sign on to the borrowing to pay Medicaid providers. I am trying to confirm this. If this is true it is not good for us! More bad news about the closing of Howe, see story below from the Chicago Tribune. Friday, advocates will meet to discuss strategies on the closing of Howe. I think it is time for a glass of champagne! Tony Paulauski The Arc of Illinois 815-464-1832
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| Arc and Senate Restores DD Cuts
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| Wednesday, September 24, 2008 |
The Senate took action just on restoration of the cuts restored in SB 1103 (55-0) and SB 790 (40-15). Now both the House and the Senate have restored these cuts. They now move to the Governor's desk for his action . . .
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| Arc Action Alert on Monday and the Senate
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| Monday, September 22, 2008 |
Your calls to the local offices of your Senators have been very effective! Thank you! On Monday continue your calls only this time the Springfield office is the target! We cannot take anything for granted and we want to show strong bi-partisan support which means, both Democrats and Republicans are supporting the restoration of the cuts to disability and human services. By the way, the Senate has also called a general session for Monday so, if this is true, the Senate would be able to concur with the House action of restoration of the budget cuts! All of the Senators I talked to on Friday indicated they were getting many calls on the restoration of the cuts and intended to support our efforts on: Senate Bill 1103 and House Bill 6350. See letter below for talking points. Tony Paulauski The Arc of Illinois 708-206-1930
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| Arc and Memo from Director Teninty on Changes to the Waiver
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| Friday, September 12, 2008 |
Memo from Director Teninty on approval of amendments to the Medicaid Waiver. Tony Paulauski The Arc of Illinois 708-206-1930
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