Page 1-2- One article with a photo on page 1.

I LinŒ'lŒ-ta OUR LIFE
June 30, 2015
Vol. 9, Issue 3
Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Tri-Agency
Tri-agencies logos:  Guam Developmental Disabilities Council (GDDC), Guam Legal Services Corporation Disability Law Center, University of Guam CEDDERS.

Article title:  What The ADA Means To You? Estorian Lynn Tydingco
Photo of group shot of five adults Ð four men and one woman.  One male sitting at a small desk signing a document as two male wheelchair users, another male and one woman standing behind the signer glancing at the document. Caption:  President Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act on July 26, 1990.

Article:
On July 26, 2015, we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. This landmark legislation helped to remove barriers and empowered Persons with Disabilities. 

The ADA prohibits discrimination against Persons with Disabilities in the following areas: (bullet list)
* Access to facilities serving the public 
* Public transportation 
* Public services 
* Employment 
* Telecommunications 

The ADA also addresses the right to receive reasonable accommodations. 

I have asked several people to share what the ADA means to them. Here is what they had to say: 

ÒAfter being exposed to Self-Advocacy, I have made it a priority to learn more about my rights, especially the ADA. The ADA affects my family and I in all aspects of our lives. Knowing my rights helps me to make informed choices in transportation, housing, health, and all the other areas. I am passionate about educating my peers so they may know their rights and learn to be independent.Ó Andrew Tydingco, Self-Advocate / Self-Advocates in Action Guam, Vice President / Self-Advocacy Workshop Facilitator / GDDC Adults Committee Chairperson / GRTA Board of Director / Co-Host of the SuperFriends Radio Show, / PADD Council Member / Mayors Planning Council Member 

ÒThe ADA ensures equality for Persons with Disabilities. Since learning about the ADA it is important to me to educate and empower others.Ó Stephen Madarang, Self-Advocate / Self-Advocates in Action Guam, Board Member-At-Large / Self-Advocacy Workshop Facilitator / Chamorro Cultural Perpetuator & Carver 

ÒMy family and I appreciate the education, accommodation, and enforcement of the ADA.Ó Lou Bascon- Mendiola, Parent of Adult Children with Disabilities / Self-Advocates in Action Guam, Associate Member / GDDC 2nd Vice Chairperson 

ÒThe ADA assures Persons with Disabilities with equal rights and freedom.Ó Roy Rosario, Self-Advocate / Self-Advocates in Action Guam, Board Member-At-Large / GRTA Advisory Council Chairperson / GSAT Advisory Council Member 
ÒThe ADA has taught me about accessibility and my rights as a Person with a Disability.Ó Lisa Ogo, Self-Advocate / Self-Advocates in Action Guam, Board Secretary / GDDC Board Secretary / GSAT Advisory Council Member 

ÒIndividuals with Disabilities have every right to work, go to school, and enjoy life. Keep living life by moving forward.Ó Rudy P. L. Cabana, GRTA Chief Planner 

ÒAs a Self-Advocate, Self-Advocacy Facilitator, and Leader in the Disability realm, I appreciate, educate, and empower my peers Òto embrace your disability, and do positive things with it.Ó Lynn Tydingco, Self-Advocate / Self-Advocates in Action Guam, President / UOG CEDDERS Advisory Council Chairperson / GDDC Chairperson / Guam State Rehabilitation Council Member / Self-Advocacy Workshop Facilitator / Co-Host of the SuperFriends Radio Show 

Helen Keller wrote: ÒWhen one comes to think of it, there are no such things as divine, immutable, or unalienable rights. Rights are things that we get when we are strong enough to make good our claim on them.Ó In other words, rights are not yours until you make good claim on them! Do not take your rights for granted! 
Biba ADA! 

Page 2 Ð Two articles; Article continuation from page 1 of ÒWhat The ADA Means To YouÓ (quarter page) of and three quarter page article.

Article title:  The ADA: Work In Progress by Alisha Molyneux, J.D.
Article:
I remember learning about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in my Employment Discrimination class in law school. My law professor was excited to teach us about the ADA and how it was passed to help eliminate discrimination against individuals with disabilities. However, she was not excited to teach us about how the Supreme Court had been interpreting the ADA, which was in a very restrictive manner; the Court said that a person had to be extremely limited in functioning in his or her life to be protected by the ADA. One shocking example was in Littleton v. Wal-Mart, where the 11th Circuit found that Mr. Littleton, who was 29 years old and had an intellectual disability since childhood, was not ÒdisabledÓ under the ADA because he could read, drive, and comprehend. Wal-Mart had not hired him to be a cart-pusher. 2007 WL 1379986 (11th Circ. 2007).

Thankfully, the ADA was amended in 2008 and Congress specifically stated that the Supreme CourtÕs past holdings were wrong; the ADA is a law that must provide broad protection of persons with disabilities. In our work at Guam Legal Services Corporation Ð Disability By Alisha Molyneux, J.D. Law Center, we have seen positive examples of landlords, schools, and the government being willing to comply with the ADA and other laws that protect persons with disabilities. Oftentimes, writing an advocacy letter with the clientÕs request and citing the law is all that it takes.

We have had the government remove sign posts that blocked the sidewalk. We have also successfully had a landlord withdraw its notice of eviction after a client with a personality disorder had argued with the landlordÕs grounds keeper. 

Unfortunately, we also see examples of clients still facing prejudice based on their disabilities. We have met clients with depression whose co-workers and supervisors teased them for taking medication. Another client was not able to go to a doctorÕs clinic because the clinic was on the 2nd floor and there was no elevator. The doctor did not know about the ADA or that his office must comply with it. While the ADA and equality for persons with disabilities have come a long way in the last 25 years, more work needs to be done. We believe that society still needs much more awareness, education, and, most importantly, empathy. Alisha Molyneux, J.D., is a Staff Attorney at Guam Legal Services Corporation - Disability Law Center.
Text in the center of the article:  DISABILITY RIGHTS ARE CIVIL RIGHTS.

Page 3 Ð Article with one photo and text in colored box.
Article title:  Americans with Disabilities Act Helps Make College Dream Reality By Maria Bontogon
Photo underneath the article title of two women walking up stairs; one female smiling and holding a cane and holding onto the rail.

Article:
Have a dream of hitting college as your postsecondary goal? No matter who you are, with or without disability, your enthusiasm, matched with self-drive and intrinsic motivation, will get you on your way to accomplish such a feat. Going to college can be overwhelming, especially for students with special needs. LetÕs thank the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as it significantly impacts the civil rights of persons with disabilities as they pursue post-secondary education in the U.S. 

Do you have tons of questions in your head concerning preparation for college transition? LetÕs discuss some: 
1. If I need an academic adjustment, what must I do? 
You have a choice not to be identified as a person with a disability. However, youÕre required to follow reasonable procedures if you ask for accommodations. School publications and web sites provide procedures and contacts for requesting academic adjustment. The earlier you let the school know about your needs, the better, to provide the school enough time to review and provide appropriate services requested. 

2. Do I need to prove my disability to obtain academic adjustment? 
Documentation to show proof of disability is normally required. 

3. What documentation should I submit? 
Verified documentation regarding disability diagnosis, date occurred, how it was acquired and how it affects your major life activities including academic performance are needed by appropriate professionals such as personal medical doctors or other health care providers. After receiving documentation, the school will review it. Interactive processing might occur between the student and the ADA support program personnel to identify services. 

4. What academic adjustments does a post-secondary school provide? 
Academic adjustment is free of charge. Services are based on individual needs. Accommodation may consist of priority registration, extended test time, sign language interpreters, providing a recording device or computers with screen readers. However, adjustments should not result in undue school financial burdens. 

5. What should I do if I believe the school is discriminating against me? 
You may contact the schoolÕs ADA office. The student handbook or school catalog usually has information to start the grievance process. Documentations supporting your reasons should be prepared. 

Consulting with the schoolÕs ADA office about accommodations is crucial. With me, I provided letters to my professors explaining adjustments I need. Besides that, I personally email and meet with them before school begins, one by one, to introduce myself, detail how I can participate, and make the most out of the class. As a student, you may have rights but you have responsibilities, too, to perform and succeed in postsecondary education. 

Text in yellow colored box:
Guam Community College (GCC)
Office of Accommodative Services
John Payne, Program Specialist
Phone: 735-5597 | 735-5555/6/8
Email: accommserv.info@guamcc.edu

University of Guam (UOG) EEO/ADA Title IX Office
Elaine Faculo-Gogue, Institutional Compliance Officer
Phone: 735-2244
Email: efgogue@uguam.uog.edu

Page 4 Ð Full page ad with a man and woman holding walking sticks in front of them; background is a collage of words.

Full page ad.
Caption: Andrew Tydingco & Erlinda ÒLynnÓ Tydingco, siblings Self-advocates and Individuals with Vision Impairment 

ADA American with Disabilities Act, 25, 1990-2015
DISABILITY RIGHTS ARE CIVIL RIGHTS
More than Our Disability

Funding for this activity is provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Grant No. 90DD0014-01-02, facilitated by the University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research & Service. 

The University of Guam is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Page 5 Ð Text listing segregated by lines

Article title: Schedule of activities in honor of the 25th AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) Anniversary Celebration 
* Proclamation Signing with Governor of Guam: ÒIn celebration of the 25th ADA AnniversaryÓ Coordinator: Ben Servino, Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID) June 29, 2015 (Monday) at 10am at GovernorÕs Cabinet Conference Room, Adelup 
* Pledging on to the ADA: ÒPromoting and becoming a part of the nationwide celebration and recommitment of the implementation of the ADA - with a goal of getting 2500 signatures for the 25th ADA Anniversary Log onto: http://adaanniversary.org/ | Encouraging Individuals with Disabilities to Sign the ADA Pledge; and Faith Based, Not for Profit Organizations and Government entities to Sign the ADA Proclamation July 1 - 31, 2015 
* ÒTechnical Requirements of providing Accessible Parking for People with Disabilities in your facilityÓ Presenter: Ben Servino, Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID) Workshop on July 6th, 2015 (Monday) from 8:30am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conference room, 6th floor, DNA Bldg 
* ÒThe Rights of Individuals with Disabilities under the ADAÓ Presenter: Harold Parker, Guam Legal Services Corporation - Disability Law Center (GLSC-DLC) Workshop on July 9th, 2015 (Thursday) from 2:30-5pm at DISID/DVR Conference room, 6th floor, DNA Bldg 
* Accessibility Site Assessments and Technical Assistance: ÒLocal Businesses/Hotels/RestaurantsÓ Facilitated by Ben Servino and Individuals with Disabilities in the Community July 10th, 17th, 24th, 2015 (Friday) from 9am-12pm 
* ÒEffective Communication & Interaction Strategies for People with DisabilitiesÓ Presented by Si–A Organization Workshop on July 14th, 2015 (Tuesday) from 8:30am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conference room, 6th floor, DNA Bldg 
* ÒHow to make your PDF Documents Accessible for People with DisabilitiesÓ Presenter: Carla Torres, Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) Workshop on July 16th, 2015 (Thursday) from 10am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conference room, 6th floor, DNA Bldg 
* ÒDeveloping ADA Self Evaluation Plans & Transition PlansÓ Presenter: Ben Servino, Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID) Workshop on July 20th, 2015 (Monday) from 8:30am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conference room, 6th floor, DNA Bldg 
* ÒHow To Make Your Websites Accessible For People With DisabilitiesÓ Presenter: Carla Torres, Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) Workshop on July 23rd, 2015 (Thursday) from 10am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conference room, 6th floor, DNA Bldg 
* Disability Simulation Event: ÒA Day in a LifeÓ Government and Private Sector Leaders shadowed by an Individual with the same Disability Coordinated by Ben Servino and Carla Torres | July 24th, 2015 (Friday) from 8:30am-12pm at ParticipantÕs work site and experiences will be shared during a Luncheon hosted by the Nikko Hotel 
* Inclusive Recreational Activity: ÒIntegrated Bowling Tournament with Special Olympics Athletes and GovGuam/Military/ Private/NPO Sector EntitiesÓ Coordinator: Marlon Molinos and Ben Servino | July 25th, 2015 (Saturday) from 8:30am-12pm at Central lanes Bowling Center, Tamuning 
* Workshop for Employers: ÒProviding Reasonable Accommodations for Applicants and Employees with DisabilitiesÓ Presented by Ben Servino, Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID) July 28th, 2015 (Tuesday) from 8:30am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conference room, 6th floor, DNA Bldg 
* Acknowledgements and Certificates of Appreciation: ÒCAPE Volunteers and Hotels, Restaurants, and Businesses that have increased access to their goods and servicesÓ Coordinated by Ben Servino, Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID) 

Page 6 Ð Two articles Ð one with two photos and the second article with one photo

Article title: Low Tech Assistive Technology at Work By Carla Torres 
Two photos underneath the article title. Left photo of a woman holding her cell phone up with her palm open. Right photo of a woman sitting and using a writing device on her cell phone.
Using scissors and a strip of heavy duty stick on Velcro (left photo), Carla Torres, GSATÕs program coordinator, made a handle for Evelyn DuenasÕ cell phone. With limitations posed by cerebral palsy and a recent injury, Evelyn could not get a good grasp on her cell phone. This made using it difficult, and she missed many calls as a result too. With the addition of the Velcro strap placed on the back of EvelynÕs phone, she now has a nifty handle she slips her hand into (right photo).  She can even place the phone on her weaker hand, which she has never been able to do before, and use a stylus with her stronger hand to access the screen (right photo). Evelyn came to GSAT that day for a transit training.  A casual conversation with Carla about her cell phone challenges on her way out led to this impromptu fabrication of a low tech assistive technology solution. In  EvelynÕs words, ÒYay!  Problem solved!Ó 

The Liftware System By Carla Torres 
The Liftware Stabilizing System is an assistive device that is designed to help people with hand tremors. Liftware includes two parts: a stabilizing handle and a utensil attachment which includes a soup spoon attachment, an everyday spoon attachment, and a fork attachment. Liftware automatically turns on the moment both parts are connected. Liftware can be charged by placing the stabilizing handle on the charging cradle.  Lift LabsÕ, the developer of the product, uses a camera stabilizing technology to counteract the tremors caused by ParkinsonÕs Disease and allows those who suffer from such tremors to feed themselves more easily. Liftware automatically stabilizes and shakes 70% less than your hand. The Liftware Stabilizing System is available for demonstration at the Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT), House 19, University of Guam, DeanÕs Circle.  

If you are interested in trying this product or would like more information, contact GSAT at 735-2490/1 or email gsat@guamcedders.org. 

Photo of a person using a modified spoon with food to eat. Caption:  http://www.liftware.com/how/ 

Page 7 Ð Two advertisements and one text box

Top Ad title:  Deaf Jam Fiesta July 11th, Ypao Beach (Big Pavilion) 1:00 Ð 4:00pm
Text: Food & Drinks, Deaf Art Exhibit, Entertainment, KidÕs Corner, Vendors
Bridging the Gap Between Deaf & Hearing Worlds
Contact info email Melissa Cayton at empowerguamdeaf@gmail.com
Sponsors: Guam Deaf Exposed & Empowered, Omnimedia, DISID, Guam Association of the Deaf, Happy Hands, Manha Project est 2011, and Guam Deaf Fellowship

Bottom left ad title: WHY BUY NEW? (Photo of a wheelchair scooter with accessories)
Text: The Guam Recycling & Equipment Exchange Service (GREES)  is a free service of the Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) where you can find gently used devices for sale or FREE, place your own want ads for needed devices, or advertise assistive technology devices that you would like to sell. 

You can access the GREES Classifieds by logging onto: www.gsatcedders.org and going to the Programs & Services menu and clicking FIND AT. There you can view the listings and obtain contact information about the sellers.
For individuals who do not have internet access or who are not skilled users of the web you can also call GSAT at 735-2490 to find out what is available. 
GSAT does not accept responsibility for the devices that are listed on the GREES Classifieds.

Acknowledgement:
Logos of the Guam Developmental Disabilities Council, Guam Legal Services Corporation Disability Law Center, and the University of Guam CEDDERS
Text:
I LinŒ'lŒ-ta is a newsletter published and funded through an Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD) Tri-Agency partnership comprised of the Guam Developmental Disabilities Council (Guam DDC), Guam Legal Services Corporation - Disability Law Center (GLSC-DLC), and University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, & Service (Guam CEDDERS). 

Comments may be sent to: University of Guam CEDDERS Office of Graduate Studies, Sponsored Programs, & Research 303 University Drive UOG Station Mangilao, Guam 96913 Phone: 735-2480/1 Fax: 734-5709 TTY: 734-6531 Email: terrie.fejarang@guamcedders.org 

Guam DDC Executive Director: Rosanne Ada GLSC-DLC Director: Harold Parker, Esq. Guam CEDDERS Director: Heidi San Nicolas, Ph.D. Editors: Ginger Porter, Terrie Fejarang Layout & Design: Sean Lizama 

This issue of I LinŒ'lŒ-ta was made possible by contributions from the following individuals: Kirsten Bamba, Maria Bontogon, Alisha Molyneux,  J.D. Carla Torres, and Erlinda Tydingco. 

Alternative formats (e.g., Braille, large print, audio tapes, or electronic file) of I LinŒ'lŒ-ta will be made available upon request. Please contact Margaret Johnson at 735-2477 (v) or 734-6531 (TTY), or email: margie.johnson@guamcedders.org for more information. 
The University of Guam is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 

Page 8 Ð Full page advertisement
Text:
Are you an individual who is entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) based on disability or blindness?
Are you interested in returning to work or experiencing a barrier to employment?
The Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security (PABSS) Program at Guam Legal Services CorporationÑ Disability Law Center may be able to provide you with advocacy related to accommodations in the workplace, employment discrimination, need for assistive technology, or other services related to securing or regaining employment.

For more information, please contact GUAM LEGAL SERVICES CORPORATION DISABILITY LAW CENTER (GLSCÑDLC) at 477-9811/2 or visit our website at www.lawhelp.org
Logos: Guam Legal Services Corporation Disability Law Center and LSC

SSA has reviewed this publication for technical accuracy. However, this ad should not be considered an official SSA publication.