Mark Your Calendar...

What:   Disability Day at the Capitol 2007, Rally and March
When:   Thursday, February 22, 2007
Where:  Georgia State Capitol and Freight Depot - Atlanta

Rally on the Capitol steps to celebrate community, advocacy  and
friendship.  Join advocates from across Georgia to show legislators
WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Check back this fall for event details…
www.gcdd.org or (888) ASK-GCDD

Grant Announcement
The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities announces the
availability of Candidates Forum Mini-grants in an effort to increase
the participation of people with disabilities in the electoral
process.  Up to 10 grants for $1,000.00 will be awarded to
organizations planning and/or hosting local candidates forums.
Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis to
organizations that demonstrate a sound plan for coordinating a forum
and recruiting participation by people with disabilities.  The final
deadline for applications is September 15, 2006.  All grant
activities must be non-partisan.

Reimbursement
Following the event, the Council will make a one-time reimbursement
for up to $1,000.00 to your organization for expenses related to
planning, coordination, and logistics for the candidates forum.
Eligible expenses include postage, printing, facility rental,
refreshments, transportation, interpreters, and audio/visual
expenses.

Application
Please provide the following information on 2 typed pages or less:

Name of Group/Organization:
Federal Employer Identification #:
Contact Name:
Phone:
Email:
Address:

1.  What candidates will you invite to participate and what office(s)
are they running for?  How do you intend to recruit candidates to
participate?
2.  What is the work plan and timeline for coordinating the forum?
Who will be responsible for coordination?
3.  How many people to you expect to attend the forum?  What is your
plan to specifically recruit people with disabilities to attend?
4.  Please provide a sample of at least 3 questions and/or issue
topics that will be discussed at the forum.
5.  Please provide a budget narrative that includes a list of
expected expenses.  Please also mention other sponsors and funding
sources.

Please provide application information to Susanna Mitchell by email
to sumitchell@... or mail to GCDD, 2 Peachtree Street,
Suite 26-246, Atlanta, GA, 30303, by September 15, 2006.

Applications due August 15 for two-part Organizing Institute
comprised of five-month training period and seven-month paid
fellowship.

Although no previous experience is required, this Institute is best
suited for people with a demonstrated interest in organizing and
advocacy around issues like housing, education, fair employment, self-
advocacy, and transportation. The Institute specifically seeks to
engage community leaders who are actively participating in or who are
looking to join the Disability Rights Movement.

Ten participants will be trained in organizing skills with the
expectation that they will return to their home communities to put
these skills to practice. Upon successful completion of the
training, participants may apply for fellowships to continue as paid
community organizers at local organizations.

The purpose is to promote systems change around issues that affect
people with disabilities in Georgia and to expand the circle of those
involved in those issues beyond the traditional disability community.

Applications are due August 15, 2006. Participants will be notified
by September 11.

Applications are available on the Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities website, www.gcdd.org. The direct link is
http://www.gcdd.org/home/OrganizingInst/Application%20Form.doc

Please contact Susanna Mitchell at 404-656-6593 or
sumitchell@... with any questions about the Institute or
the application process.

Job Announcement
Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities

Job Title: Advocacy Director
Job Code: 61064
Last Update: 7/1/2006
Salary Plan: Statewide Salary Plan (SWD)
Pay Grade: 015  Salary Minimum: $34,533.36/yr
Market Midpoint: $45,003.36/yr
Salary Maximum: $60,487.20/yr
Applications Due:  August 15, 2006
Attn:  Eric Jacobson
2 Peachtree Street, Suite 26-200
Atlanta, Georgia 30303

The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities is seeking an
Advocacy Director.  This position provides professional level
analysis, research and consultative services related to expanding
Council supported and/or funded programs to develop a network of
grassroots advocates.   Identifies gaps or unmet needs in the
supporting leadership and advocacy skills development for people with
developmental disabilities, develops strategies, goals and objectives
consistent with the Council's mission, tracks issues that have an
impact on the goals of the Council, and prepares analysis and
assesses the effectiveness of Council programs, seminars, and
conferences.  Participates in council coalitions, provides leadership
for council committees, drafts policy, and performs administrative
and general program monitoring for assigned areas.

Responsibilities include:
• Coordinates and administers the Council's leadership and
advocacy skills development initiatives
• Develops strategic leadership and advocacy skills development
plan and coordinates implementation with appropriate personnel
• Performs administrative and general program monitoring
functions in the area of advocacy
• Provides staff leadership and guidance to Council standing
and ad hoc committees.
• Works with Deputy Director to review and analyze policy
proposals, proposed regulations and legislation, position papers, and
other documents to evaluate their soundness and potential impact on
people with developmental disabilities
• Manages special projects or new programs as assigned by the
Executive Director.

The director will report directly to the executive director and
assist with other duties needed to carry out the day to day
operations of the organization. Requires a bachelor in a related
field and at least two years experience in a field related to
disabilities or working with local advocacy organizations.
Experience could be substituted for education degree. Please submit a
cover letter and resume. Our web site is:www.gcdd.org

The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities seeks Innovative
Proposals.  The application and guidelines are available at:
http://www.gcdd.org/programs/grants/index.htm

Innovative Grants are small, renewable grants for unique projects
that by their very nature spark enthusiasm. The applicant should
demonstrate expertise in the project area and creative collaboration
and leveraging of other resources. Innovative Grants should respond
to a barrier or issue that has not been successfully addressed to any
real extent in the implementation area. Innovative Grants may
replicate "best practice models" or propose an entirely new project
that increases the inclusion of people with disabilities in community
life, particularly around the areas of relationships, homes, jobs,
learning, supports or transportation. The ultimate outcome of
Innovative Grants is to promote policies, systems change, and
capacity building that improve the quality of life for Georgians with
disabilities.  The maximum funding per year is $9,999; grants may be
renewed for a second year at the mutual agreement of GCDD and Grantee.

The deadline for application is September 1, 2006. Notification of
status of all requests will be made within 60 days.

A Q&A Conference Call will be held on August 1 @ 9:30 AM and August
16 @ 4:30 PM to answer additional questions about the grant process.
RSVP to sumitchell@... or by calling (404) 656-6593.

You are cordially invited to attend the Governor's Council on
Developmental Disabilities' Making A Difference Annual Awards
Ceremony to be held at The Renaissance Atlanta Downtown Hotel, 590
West Peachtree Street – (Atlanta Room A & B), Atlanta, Georgia 30308,
from 7:00p.m. to 8:30p.m. on Thursday, July 20, 2006.  Parking is
free at the Renaissance Atlanta Downtown Hotel.

The Making A Difference Annual Awards Ceremony will honor and
recognize those GCDD council members, advocates, legislators and
media professionals who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership
and responsibility by promoting awareness of the rights of persons
with disabilities and their families.

Special recognition for legislative leadership will be awarded to Ben
Harbin (House, Republican, District 118); State Senator Gregg Goggans
(House, Republican, District 7); and State Senator Regina Thomas
(House, Democrat, District 2).  Atlanta Journal Constitution
Reporter, Gracie Bonds Staples and Fox 5 News Anchor/Reporter, Lisa
Crane will be presented with the Media Professional of the Year
Award.  Al DuVall and Linda Wilson have been selected to receive
Advocate of the Year Awards.  And, Cheryl Laurendeau will be named
the C. Anthony Cunningham Council Member of the Year.

Please RSVP for you and your guest/s to Kim Person at 404-657-2130,
or kaperson@..., as soon as possible.

The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities and Project
South are recruiting established and emerging community leaders to
participate in a two-part Organizing Institute comprised of a five-
month training period followed by a seven-month paid fellowship.

Although no previous experience is required, this Institute is best
suited for people with a demonstrated interest in organizing and
advocacy around issues like housing, education, fair employment, self-
advocacy, and transportation.  The Institute specifically seeks to
engage community leaders who are actively participating in or who are
looking to join the Disability Rights Movement.  Graduates of
Partners in Policymaking and Georgia Voices that Count are strongly
encouraged to apply.

Ten participants will be trained in organizing skills with the
expectation that they will return to their home communities to put
these skills to practice.  The training is designed for inclusion and
accessibility for people with a variety of learning styles and moves
people toward a place of action. Upon successful completion of the
training, participants may apply for fellowships to continue as paid
community organizers at local organizations.

The purpose is to promote systems change around issues that affect
people with disabilities in Georgia and to expand the circle of those
involved in those issues beyond the traditional disability community.
By connecting disability issues to the "bigger picture," organizers
will build a new movement for social and economic justice with allies
inside and outside the disability community.

Applications are due August 15, 2006.  Participants will be notified
by September 1.

Applications are available on the Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities website, www.gcdd.org.  The direct link is
http://www.gcdd.org/home/OrganizingInst/Application%20Form.doc

Please contact Susanna Mitchell at 404-656-6593 or
sumitchell@... with any questions about the Institute or
the application process.

For Immediate Release

Contact:
Georgians for a Common Sense Health Plan
Rita Valenti:  404-292-1219
Lynn Thogerson:  404-687-9891

When:     Wednesday, June 7th, 2006
Where:    Georgia State Capitol, South wing
What:      Press Conference at 10:00 a.m., 6/7/06

GEORGIANS JOIN WITH THOUSANDS NATIONWIDE IN SUPPORT OF UNIVERSAL,
COMPREHENSIVE, HEALTH CARE FOR ALL!

June 7th, 2006, marks the day that Georgia representatives of
national and local organizations will join in with thousands around
the country in support of U.S. House Bill 676 (HR676), which aims to
establish an American-style national health insurance program by
expanding the highly successful Medicare program.

HR 676, also known as the United States National Health Insurance
Act, was introduced by Congressman John Conyers and has been endorsed
by Georgia Congressman John Lewis, Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney,
and seventy-one other congressional representatives.  In the 2006
Georgia legislative session, Representatives Stephanie Stuckey, Pat
Gardner, and Mary Margaret Oliver introduced a resolution in support
of HR  676.  State Representative Bob Holmes, a long time supporter
and author of proposed single-payer legislation for Georgia
says, "Recent studies have shown that single payer health insurance
is fiscally responsible, quite feasible, and provides a real basis
for solving many of our health care problems."


Representatives of local chapters of the following organizations will
be present at the press conference and discuss State and national
efforts to cover millions of uninsured and underinsured Georgians:
Physicians for a National Health Program, Statewide Independent
Living Council, Planned Parenthood, the Georgia Mental Health
Consumer Network, the National Nurses Organizing Committee, Georgia
Citizens Coalition Against Hunger, AIDS Survival Project, Project
South, Health Students Taking Action Together (H-STAT), Healing
Circles, Inc., Georgians for a Common Sense Health Plan, The
Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities, Health Care NOW,
and more.

Dr. Karen Hochman, Assistant Professor, Emory University School of
Medicine says, "Health care is widely recognized as a basic human
right throughout the world.  The United States pays more for health
care than any other country.  It is time for the people of the United
States to get what they are paying for; high quality, comprehensive
coverage that is not tied to employment, health status or income. HR
676, which expands Medicare coverage to everyone, is equitably
financed, cost effective and has comprehensive benefits including
mental health, prescription drug coverage, physician/ provider choice
and long- term care, with an emphasis on community based support."

Vanessa Jackson, small businesswoman adds, "Our health care system is
failing us.  Even the so-called well-insured are confronted with
constant increases in insurance costs and decreases in coverage.
Too many consumers have to choose between health care and basic
necessities, such as food and housing. For many of us health care
under this system of commercial insurance is a luxury we can no
longer afford!"

Representative Bob Holmes, Representative Pat Gardner, Dr. Bill Elsea
(former Fulton County Health Commissioner), Larissa Thomas (President
of H-STAT), and others will be on hand at the Press Conference on
6/7/06.

For further information, please contact Rita Valenti at 404-292-1219
or Lynn Thogerson at 404-687-9891.

***

The State ADA Coordinator's Office is seeking to address barriers to
full and equal participation for persons with disabilities in
programs, services and activities operated by the State of Georgia.



If you are a person with a disability and you have had interaction
with a State of Georgia government agency within the last five years
we ask that you take a moment to complete the attached survey.  This
information will be used to develop training and technical support
initiatives to address identified barriers.



Interaction with a State of Georgia agency includes (but is not
limited to) the following:



             —Applicant or Student at any State of Georgia University,
College or

              Technical School

             —Contractor or Consultant with the State of Georgia

—Applicant for or Employee with the State of Georgia

—Participant in Any Program, Service or Activity Operated by a State
of Georgia

   Government Agency or Department

             —Visitor to Any State Park or State Recreational Area

             —Visitor to Any State of Georgia Operated Career Center

             —Applicant or Recipient of Any Required State of Georgia
Licensing or Certification



Submitting your contact or demographic information is not a
requirement for completing this survey.  If you do submit your
contact information it will only be used for clarification of or
elaboration on your responses and will not be shared with any other
State agency, personnel, programs or services.



If you require this survey in an alternative format (for example:
Braille, in large print, C.D., etc.) please contact the State ADA
Coordinator's Office at (404) 657-7313 or at (404) 657-9993 (TTY).



Your candid feedback is invaluable to all of us.  We thank you in
advance for taking the time to complete this survey.  It is an
important tool in helping to create better State of Georgia programs,
services and activities for you and your fellow Georgians.  Please
submit your answers to the survey no later than 5:00 pm on Wednesday,
June 21st, 2006.



The survey is available in two formats: (1) Standard Format, which
includes several questions in a table format; and (2) Non-table
Format, for individuals using assistive technologies, who prefer not
to use a table format.



For the Standard Table Format, please click:
http://www.surveysolutions.com/prs/gsfic/pwd.htm





For Non-table Format, please click:
http://www.surveysolutions.com/prs/gsfic/pwdvi.htm

Tell us your thoughts on the Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities Draft State Plan for 2007-2011.

The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities has prepared a
draft of their 2007-2011 Strategic Plan.  This plan will define what
the Council does for the next five years.  You are welcome to comment
on the plan through June 9, 2006.

You can get your copy of the plan by either going to the Council's
website at www.gcdd.org or calling the Council 404-657-2126 or 888-
275-4233.

There are four ways you can give us your feedback:

1. use the survey link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?
u=565282094717

2. e-mail your comments to eejacobson@... or

3. mail your comments to:

Eric Jacobson, GCDD
2 Peachtree Street, Suite 26-246
Atlanta, Georgia 30303

4. The Council will hold a public hearing on June 1 to take testimony
on the Draft Strategic Plan.  The hearing will take place on the 26th
floor at 2 Peachtree Street from 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.   If you
need accommodations please contact the Council office at 404-657-2126.

Thank you!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAY 5, 2006
FOR ADDITIONAL MEDIA INFORMATION:
Barbara Joye, 404-657-1385,
brjoye@...



BOARD OF HUMAN RESOURCES TO HOLD FOUR BUDGET HEARINGS

ATLANTA (GA) – The Board of Human Resources, which oversees and sets
policy for the Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR), will seek
public input as the agency and its board plan for the SFY 2008
budget.  To accomplish this, the Board announced that it will hold a
series of budget hearings across the state during May and June.
	 This is an opportunity for members of the public to provide
the Board of Human Resources with comments on the services they feel
are important for DHR to provide in SFY 2008.

Budget hearings will be held in the following cities:

May 25       Savannah  6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Georgia Regional Hospital
		 Assembly Room, Building 8
                         1915 Eisenhower Drive
		 Savannah, Georgia

		 Deadline for signing up online: noon, May 24.


    May 30         Albany  6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

   		 DHR Multi-Purpose Building
		 200 W. Oglethorpe Blvd.
		 Albany, Georgia 31701-6802

		 Deadline for signing up online: noon, May 29.

June 6              Atlanta  5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

   		 Fulton County Department of  Family
		     and Children Services
		 1249 Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway
 		 Atlanta, Georgia 30318

Deadline for signing up online: 5 p.m., June 5.


June 21 Augusta  4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Augusta Technical School
		 600 Building Auditorium
		 3200 Augusta Tech Drive
		 Augusta, Georgia 30906
		 Deadline for signing up online: noon, June 20.

Anyone wishing to speak at a hearing may sign up on arrival, or they
may sign up online through dhr.georgia.gov. Speakers may sign up for
only one hearing. Those who sign up online will be scheduled to speak
first, and they will receive confirmation by return email that they
are signed up. All speakers will be limited to three to five minutes
depending on the number of people who participate.

Those who wish to submit written testimony can do it in one of two
ways: electronically through the department's Internet website, or by
traditional mail. To submit written testimony online, go to the DHR
Website at dhr.georgia.gov. Testimony will be accepted through the
Internet site until 5 p.m., July 1. Those who wish to use traditional
mail may send their testimony to arrive by 5 p.m., July 1, to Maria
Pitts, DHR Office of Planning and Budget Services, suite 30.270, Two
Peachtree Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30303. All written testimony
received by 5 p.m., July 1, either on paper or electronically, will
be distributed to the Board of Human Resources.

-30-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, MAY 16, 2006



Contact: Jennifer W. Adams
Phone: 202/736-3858(O) OR 202/285-4268(C)

MEDIA ADVISORY FOR:

MONDAY, MAY 22, 2006 @ 9:30 AM EST
Commission to Hold Third Hearing in Atlanta
Improving Achievement  for All Students:
Is NCLB Accountability Producing Results?

Washington, DC---Former Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy
Thompson and former Georgia Governor Roy Barnes announced the third
in a
series of hearings on the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB).  This
hearing
will help inform the Commission's recommendations on how NCLB should
hold schools accountable for student achievement and whether existing
adequate yearly progress requirements are effective.  The hearing will
take place on Monday, May 22, 2006 at 9:30 AM EST and will be held at
the Georgia Institute of Technology, in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Commission on No Child Left Behind is an independent, bipartisan
effort to improve the No Child Left Behind Act and ensure it is a more
useful force in closing the achievement gap that separates
disadvantaged
children and their peers.  The Commission will uncover the successes
of
NCLB, as well as provisions which need to be changed or eliminated.
The
Commission, after a year of hearings, analysis and research, will
report
to Congress and the Administration in early 2007 with its
recommendations.

WHAT: Hearing on Accountability

WHO:  Commission on No Child Left Behind
WITNESSES :
Dr. Kathy Cox, Superintendent, Georgia Department of Education
Mr. John Winn, Commissioner, Florida Department of Education
Mr. J. Alvin Wilbanks, CEO/Superintendent, Gwinnett County Public
Schools, Georgia
Mr. Lester McKee, Executive Director for Research Planning and
Accountability, Atlanta, Georgia Public Schools
Ms. Merchuria Chase Williams, PhD., President, Georgia Association of
Educators
**Additional witnesses may be announced**

WHEN: Monday, May 22, 2006 @ 9:30 AM EST

WHERE:  The Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech, 349 Ferst Drive
NW, Atlanta, GA 30332-0468
**THE HEARING WILL BE LIVE ON THE INTERNET AT: www.nclbcommission.org
<http://www.nclbcommission.org/>  **

BACKGROUND:
The No Child Left Behind Act ushered in a new public discussion over
how
to hold our schools accountable for increasing student achievement and
closing the achievement gap between disadvantaged children and their
peers.  NCLB's adequate yearly progress (AYP) provisions required
States
to set up an accountability plan that would ensure that all children
reach state standards by the end of the 2013-2014 school year.  These
plans have required schools to meet increasing levels of student
achievement, by subgroups of disadvantaged children.  The lists of
schools which have not made AYP have generated significant discussion
among policymakers, researchers and the general public.  The question
for the Commission at this hearing is whether the existing system of
AYP
is the best way to assess which schools are meeting state standards
and
which, and how many, schools should be identified as not meeting such
standards.

AYP BACKGROUND:
Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) is a State developed measure of
progress
for all school districts and schools in the State.  After the passage
of
NCLB, States had to define AYP in a manner that requires progress by
disadvantaged subgroups of students, as well as the overall student
population with the express purpose of narrowing of the achievement
gap.


States must define AYP so that all students are expected to improve
and
that by 2014 all students will achieve at the State
defined "proficient"
level on State reading and math academic assessments.  In addition, in
order for a school to make AYP, 95% of each subgroup must participate
in
the assessments.

When NCLB was passed, states set the starting point, or achievement
"bar," to reach 100 percent proficiency.  States were free to choose
where to set the initial bar based upon the lowest-achieving
demographic
subgroup, or the lowest-achieving schools in the State, whichever was
higher.  Once the initial bar was established, NCLB required the
States
to gradually increase the threshold of the percentage of students who
must obtain proficiency in equal increments.  The thresholds must be
raised at least once every three years.

Schools and districts that fail to meet their AYP goals are determined
to be 'in need of improvement.'  Once this determination is made, a
series of escalating reforms and eventually sanctions are imposed to
enable the school or district to meet AYP.

ALTERNATIVE ACCOUNTABILITY MODELS - MEASURING GROWTH:
Much attention has been focused on whether the existing AYP
requirements
are the best way to assess the impact our schools are having on
student
achievement.  Many policymakers have advocated for models which track
growth in student achievement, either on an individual student basis,
or
grades of children.  At the last hearing by the Commission,
Commissioners learned that most States do not have all of the pieces
in
place to track the academic growth of individual children from year to
year, creating a possible barrier to the adoption of a growth model
based accountability system.

The U.S. Department of Education is presently evaluating whether to
approve the use of growth models by States under a recently announced
growth model pilot program.  At this hearing, the Commission will
examine the aspects of existing and proposed growth model systems and
their impact on closing the achievement gap.

DETAILS FOR SUBMISSION OF WRITTEN COMMENTS:
Any persons or organizations wishing to submit written comments for
the
hearing record may do so by sending such comments electronically to
nclbfeedback@... please include 'Hearing Testimony' in
the subject line. Written comments can also be sent through the U.S.
Mail to:  The Commission on No Child Left Behind, One Dupont Circle,
Suite 700, Washington, D.C.  20036.  ALL WRITTEN COMMENTS MUST BE
RECEIVED BY COB May 30, 2006.  Written comments mailed to the
Commission
must be accompanied by an electronic version on computer disk.  Those
submitting comments must clearly identify themselves with a valid
mailing address and clearly indicating any affiliations the comments
represent.

Submissions will be included in the record of the hearing at the
discretion of the Commission.  The Commission will not alter the
content
of your submission, but does reserve the right to format it
accordingly.
Submissions must be no longer than 10 pages in length, including any
attachments.

The Commission on No Child Left Behind is funded by the Bill & Melinda
Gates Foundation, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the Joyce
Foundation, the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation,
Carnegie
Corporation of New York, and the Spencer Foundation. This document is
published to communicate the results of the Commission's work. The
findings, interpretations, and conclusions expressed in the
Commission's
documents are entirely those of the author(s) and should not be
attributed in any manner to the donors.



***

Tell us your thoughts on the Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities Draft State Plan for 2007-2011.

The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities has prepared a
draft of their 2007-2011 Strategic Plan.  This plan will define what
the Council does for the next five years.  You are welcome to comment
on the plan through June 9, 2006.

You can get your copy of the plan by either going to the Council's
website at www.gcdd.org or calling the Council 404-657-2126 or 888-
275-4233.

There are four ways you can give us your feedback:

1. use the survey link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?
u=565282094717

2. e-mail your comments to eejacobson@... or

3. mail your comments to:

Eric Jacobson, GCDD
2 Peachtree Street, Suite 26-240
Atlanta, Georgia 30303

4. The Council will hold a public hearing on June 1 to take testimony
on the Draft Strategic Plan.  The hearing will take place on the 26th
floor at 2 Peachtree Street from 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.   If you
need accommodations please contact the Council office at 404-657-2126.

Thank you!

Tell us your thoughts on the Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities Draft State Plan for 2007-2011.

The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities has prepared a
draft of their 2007-2011 Strategic Plan.  This plan will define what
the Council does for the next five years.  You are welcome to comment
on the plan through June 9, 2006.

You can get your copy of the plan by either going to the Council's
website at www.gcdd.org or calling the Council 404-657-2126 or 888-
275-4233.

There are four ways you can give us your feedback:

1. use the survey link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?
u=565282094717

2. e-mail your comments to eejacobson@... or

3. mail your comments to:

Eric Jacobson, GCDD
2 Peachtree Street, Suite 26-240
Atlanta, Georgia 30303

4. The Council will hold a public hearing on June 1 to take testimony
on the Draft Strategic Plan.  The hearing will take place on the 26th
floor at 2 Peachtree Street from 3:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m.   If you
need accommodations please contact the Council office at 404-657-2126.

Thank you!

The Quarterly Meeting of the Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities will take place in Albany, Georgia April 20 and 21.

Agenda items include Committee Reports, Review of the State legislative
session, a Federal legislation update, and strategic planning sessions.

A Public Forum will be held on April 20 from 7 to 9pm. The purpose of
the forum is to gather input for the strategic plan.

To attend or for an agenda or directions, please contact
kaperson@... or 404-657-2130.

www.gcdd.org

What is the best change you hope to see in the next 5 years for
Georgians with disabilities?
What can WE do to make it a reality?

Please help us to answer these questions at one of these Public
Forums hosted by the Georgia Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities in order to gather information for our strategic plan.

People with disabilities, their friends and family, public officials
and policymakers are all very welcome to participate.

Gainesville, Monday, April 10
        Lanier Center Best Western
       7-9pm
       400 EE Butler Pkwy
       Gainesville, GA 30501
        770-531-0907

Savannah, April 11
       Hilton Savannah Desoto
      7-9pm
      15 East Liberty St.
       Savannah, GA 31401
       912-232-9000

Albany, April 20
7-9pm
State Theatre
313 Pine Avenue
Albany, GA 31701

To participate, please rsvp to Dee Spearman at 888-275-4233, 404-657-
2121 or dyspearman@... .

Visit the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities at
www.gcdd.org .

Public Forums for Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities'
Strategic Plan

What is the best change you hope to see in the next 5 years for
Georgians with disabilities?

What can WE do to make it a reality?

Please help us to answer these questions at one of these Public
Forums hosted by the Georgia Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities in order to gather information for our strategic plan.

People with disabilities, their friends and family, public officials
and policymakers are all very welcome to participate.


Macon, Monday, April 3,
The Wingate Inn

   7-9pm

   100 Northcrest Blvd

   Macon, GA 31210

   478-476-8100

Don't miss this unique opportunity to see a beautifully-decorated
fully accessible home in Fayetteville. Saturday, April 1 is your last
chance to see it! This is a great opportunity for realtors,
developers and those considering accessible features in their current
or future home.

http://www.universaldesignalliance.com

The Universal Design Alliance presents The 2006 Livable Lifetime Show
House focusing on universal design features March 10-April 1, 2006 in
Fayetteville, Ga. The home showcases many design elements that
produce a convenient, safe and flexible home that can meet the
changing needs of individuals and families throughout their lifetimes.

The Show House will demonstrate the talented skills of interior
designers specifically trained in "multiple life stage design" and
will include many ideas not commonly available in homes at this time.
IN ADDITION there will be workshops, seminars and special events to
help educate consumers on the benefits of a livable, lifetime home.

The Universal Design Alliance http://www.universaldesignalliance.com/
is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public on the
benefits of home, interior and exterior, features which promote
enjoyment for a lifetime.

Public Forums for Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities'
Strategic Plan

What is the best change you hope to see in the next 5 years for
Georgians with disabilities?

What can WE do to make it a reality?


Please help us to answer these questions at one of these Public
Forums hosted by the Georgia Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities in order to gather information for our strategic plan.


People with disabilities, their friends and family, public officials
and policymakers are all very welcome to participate.


Macon, Monday, April 3,
The Wingate Inn

  7-9pm

  100 Northcrest Blvd

  Macon, GA 31210

  478-476-8100

To participate, please rsvp to Dee Spearman at 888-275-4233, 404-657-
2121 or dyspearman@... .

Community Calendar
For People interested in DISABILITY EVENTS
also online at www.gcdd.org

April 2006

April 6-7, 2006
Innovative Practices Conference & Creative Expressions Festival
Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, GA
Contact: 478-445-5277

April 7, 2006
Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia – Public Meeting
9am-4pm
Courtyard Macon
Macon, GA
Contact: Sherita Robinson at 770-270-6860
TTY: 770-270-5671
srobinson@...

April 10-12, 2006
National Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Symposium & Expo
America's Center
St. Louis, MO
Contact: 1-800-949-4232
www.adasymposium.org

April 17-18, 2006
2006 Multiple Perspectives on Access, Inclusion & Disability
Ohio
Contact Email: ADA-OSU@...

April 18-20, 2006
National Symposium on Playground Access
University of Bloomington, Indiana
Contact: National Center on Accessibility at 812-856-4422 or visit
www.ncaonline.org

April 20, 2006
Georgia Chapter of AAMR – Georgia's Transition to Community Living –
2006 Spring Conference
Clairmont Presbyterian Church
Decatur, GA
Contact: Dave Blanchard at dave@...

April 20-21, 2006
Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities Quarterly Council
Meeting & Public Forum
Albany, Georgia
Contact: 888-ASK-GCDD or kaperson@...

April 20-21, 2006
Curriculum Adaptation & Social Skills Training for Children & Teens
with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Atlanta, GA
Contact email: spectrumtrainingsystems@...

April 28-May 1, 2006
The Infancy & Early Childhood Training Course
Hilton McLean, Tyson's Corner, Virginia
Contact: www.stanleygreenspan.com
703-847-5000

	 Looking Ahead…

May 1-5, 2006
Pathways to Success in Developmental & Learning Disabilities:
New York City, NY
Register online at www.yai.org

May 2-5, 2006
American Assoc. on Mental Retardation – International Alliance for
Social Inclusion Summit
Montreal, Quebec Canada
Contact: www.aamr.org

May 8-9, 2006
Easter Seals Project Action – People on the Move: Using All
Transportation Options (ADA & Beyond)
Increasing Accessible Transportation
Alexandria, VA
Contact: www.projectaction.org

May 8-10, 2006
National Conference on Reuse of Assistive Technology Devices
Georgia Tech Conference Center
Atlanta, GA
Contact: Nell Bailey at nbailey@... or 703-524-6686 ext. 305

May 22-23, 2006
National Conference on the Employment of Lawyers with Disabilities
Renaissance Washington Hotel
Washington, DC
Contact:
www.abanet.org/disability/events/06/nationalconference/home.html

May 22-25, 2006
National Council on Independent Living 2006 Conference, "Ending the
Institutional Bias"
Grand Hyatt
Washington, DC
Contact: www.ncil.org

May 24-28, 2006
AutismOne 2006 Conference
Westin O'Hare Hotel
Rosemont, Il
Contact: Jim Donnelly - Director of Communications
317.496.0102

May 25-27, 2006
2006 Georgia Psychological Association  Annual Meeting
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Sandestin, Florida

May 25-28, 2006
National Self-Advocacy Conference 2006
Self-Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE)
Atlanta Hilton
Atlanta, GA
Contact: www.sabe2006.com

May 31-June 2, 2006
Fifth Annual Bridges to Employment Conference: "Exploring Career
Opportunities for Latinos with Disabilities
Holiday Inn San Antonio Riverwalk
San Antonio, TX
Contact: www.proyectovision.net

June 22-26, 2006
Resna 2006 Conference – The Future of Rehabilitation Engineering &
Assistive Technology
Hyatt Regency
Atlanta, GA
Contact: www.resna.org

July 13-14, 2006
Universal Design & Visitability: From Accessibility to Zoning
Conference
Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio
Contact: http://knowlton.osu.edu/ped/universaldesign.htm
Deadline is March 15, 2006

July 18-22, 2006
Association on Higher Education & Disability Annual Conference
San Diego, CA
Contact: www.ahead.org/training/conference/index.htm

July 20-21, 2006
Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities Quarterly Meeting
Atlanta, GA
888-ASK-GCDD or kaperson@...

July 21-23, 2006
National Annual Down Syndrome Congress Convention
Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Atlanta, GA
Contact: 800-232-6372 or 770-604-9500
www.ndsccenter.org

September 13-15, 2006
Partners for Youth with Disabilities (PYD) Conference, "Aspire,
Achieve, Empower"
Boston, MA
Contact: www.pyd.org  or www.pyd.org/national-center/conference.htm

September 27-29, 2006
Third Annual Statewide Policy Academy & Conference on Homelessness –
Georgia Coalition to End Homelessness
Macon Centreplex
Macon, GA
Contact: Katheryn Preston, Executive Director
1-877-243-1576
www.gahomeless.org

October 4-6, 2006
US Business Leadership Network 2006 Conference
Minneapolis Marriott City Center
Minneapolis, MN
Contact: Greg Lambert at sorshipinfo@... or call at 612-727-7177
Websites: www.mnbln.org or www.usbln.com

October 4-6, 2006
2006 Southwest Conference on Disability
Albuquerque Convention Center
Albuquerque, NM
Contact: Barbara Hussey at 505-272-6247
Email: swdisabilityconference@...

October 15-18, 2006
National Spinal Cord Injury Association – Second Spinal Cord Injury
Summit and SCI Hall of Fame
Hyatt Regency
Bethesda, MD.
Contact: www.spinalcord.org

October 19-20, 2006
Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities Quarterly Council
Meeting and Public Forum
Savannah, GA
www.gcdd.org or 888-ASK-GCDD

November 17-19, 2006
Fall 2006 World Congress & Expo on Disabilities
Pennsylvania Convention Center
Philadelphia, PA

Tentative:

February 22, 2007
Disability Day at the Capitol 2007
www.gcdd.org

What is the best change you hope to see in the next 5 years for
Georgians with disabilities?
What can WE do to make it a reality?

Please help us to answer these questions at one of these Public
Forums hosted by the Georgia Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities in order to gather information for our strategic plan.

People with disabilities, their friends and family, public officials
and policymakers are all very welcome to participate.

1)  Macon, Monday, April 3
      The Wingate Inn
       7-9pm
      100 Northcrest Blvd
      Macon, GA 31210
      478-476-8100

2)  Gainesville, Monday, April 10
       Lanier Center Best Western
      7-9pm
      400 EE Butler Pkwy
      Gainesville, GA 30501
       770-531-0907

3)  Savannah, April 11
      Hilton Savannah Desoto
     7-9pm
     15 East Liberty St.
      Savannah, GA 31401
      912-232-9000

4) Albany, April 20
7-9pm
State Theatre
313 Pine Avenue
Albany, GA 31701

To participate, please rsvp to Dee Spearman at 888-275-4233, 404-657-
2121 or dyspearman@... .

Visit the Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities at
www.gcdd.org .

The Universal Design Alliance is hosting the 2006 Livable Lifetime
Show House from March 11 to April 1.  The Show House, located in
Fayetteville, will feature design elements used to produce a
convenient, safe and flexible home that meets the changing needs of
individuals and families throughout their lifetimes. As a volunteer,
you will see the Show House at no cost, receive free training on
Universal Design, and assist others in learning about complete
accessibility!

We need you to volunteer during one of these times:

March 13 – April 1
Monday – Saturday

Shift 1:  9:00 to noon
Shift 2: noon to 3:00
Shift 3: 3:00 to 6:00

*day time volunteers especially needed!*

Volunteer responsibilities include greeting guests, selling tickets,
and directing traffic.  The Show House is located in Fayetteville,
GA, approximately 30 miles south of downtown Atlanta.  Volunteers
should plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to the start of their shift.

If you would like to volunteer, schedule a training date, or request
more information about this opportunity, please contact Susanna
Mitchell at (404) 656-6593.

If you would like more information about the 2006 Show House or the
Universal Design Alliance, please visit:
http://www.universaldesign.org/

Remaining Training Dates (required for volunteers):

March 8, 11-2, Show House, Fayetteville
March 8, 5:30-8:30, Show House, Fayetteville
More Trainings Can be added for your group of 3 or more!

Thank you!

Susanna Mitchell
Livable Lifetime Show House Volunteer Coordinator
Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities

Excerpt from the Center for Self-Determination Newsletter:

link to drafts of new waivers at end of message.

Georgia:

- In preparation for the near term implementation of "Consumer-
Directed Natural Supports Enhancement Services" within a current
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver, and two new waivers
Georgia-s Department of Human Resources is preparing, the Center
recently completed a six month series of self-determination
trainings. Funded through the Georgia Governor's Council on
Developmental Disabilities and headed by Center Resource Guide
Dennis Harkins in concert with Georgia DHR and DD Council, the
primary audience for this training were families and support
coordinators.

The Center also made presentations on Self-Determination at a
statewide provider conference, to a graduate reunion of Georgia-s
Partners in Policymaking, and to a statewide conference in Savannah
focused on community connections and direct support professionals.
Georgia-s Division of MHDDAD is making significant strides towards
the implementation of self-determination within Georgia's state
system. The working relationship between the Division and the
Georgia DD Council in this regard has been an excellent example of
how the resources and responsibilities of a state developmental
disabilities services agency and a Governor-s DD Council can blend
effectively to work towards systems change based upon self-
determination.

Drafts of Georgia's potential new HCBS waivers may be seen by going
to http://mhddad.dhr.georgia.gov/portal/site/DHR-MHDDAD/ and
clicking 1st on "services", then "developmental disabilities" and at
the bottom of the developmental disabilities page finding the link
to the drafts of the new waivers which have self-determination as a
foundation.

For Immediate Release
Contact: Alan Essig, Exec. Director
February 24, 2005 (404) 420-1324

Federal Budget Cuts Will Hit Georgia Hard
Programs Face Severe Reductions or Complete Elimination

Newly available information indicates that Georgia would experience
large and growing cuts in federal funding over the next five years
under the Bush Administration's Fiscal Year 2007 budget. If enacted,
the cuts would weaken critical services in Georgia and place
significant new burdens on the state's budget.

Some of the heaviest losses in Georgia would be sustained in the
following areas:

• Vocational and Adult Education. Grants for vocational education
are to be
eliminated by 2008. The Adult Basic Education Program would be cut 14
percent by 2011. FY 2007 reductions are estimated at $43.2 million.
By 2011
reductions will total almost $50 million.

• Elementary and Secondary Education. Special education funding will
be reduced $45.2 million by 2011 and School Improvement Programs
will be reduced $30.1 million by 2011. Total funding reductions for
K-12 will total $88.2 million by 2011.
2

• Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). The CCDBG funds
child care assistance programs for low-income working families. By
2011 cuts
will total $11.6 million.

• Community Services Block Grant (CSBG). The CSBG Program is to be
eliminated resulting in a loss of $17.6 million in FY 2007. The
Department of
Human Resources contracts with 20 community action agencies to
provide a
range of anti-poverty services with CSBG funds.

• Supplemental Nutrition for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC). In FY
2007
Georgia will sustain a $2.66 million reduction in funds for this
critical program.
Reductions will total $23.6 million by 2011.

• Low Income Home Energy Assistance. Georgia's LIHEAP allocation
will be
reduced $7.46 million by 2011.

While Congress funds discretionary programs one year at a time, the
President's budget
proposes to cap overall discretionary funding for each of the next
five years, and to set
those caps on the basis of funding limits in the current budget.
This means that in the
future, if Congress proposes to fund any discretionary program with
increases or lower
funding cuts than those proposed by the President, they would have
to be paid for with
deeper cuts in other programs.

The Washington, DC-based Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
(CPBB) has released a report which shows how the Administration's
budget would affect specific programs, as well as each state, over
the next five years.

Under the President's proposal, total nationwide funding for
domestic discretionary (nonentitlement)
programs will be reduced by $57 billion in FY 2011 (below the 2006
funding level, adjusted for inflation). This will in turn generate
significant reductions in
funding for state programs that support vocational and adult
education, K-12 education,
affordable housing for senior citizens, energy assistance for low-
income families, and
childcare for working parents. Some programs, such as vocational
education for adults
and several anti-poverty programs are at risk of being eliminated
completely.

"Federal cuts in monies for critical public services means that
states must assume a larger
share of that support," said Alan Essig, GBPI Executive
Director. "Reductions in federal
funding will force Georgia to decide between reducing vital services
and raising state
and/or local taxes to make up for the lost federal funding."

According to the report, funding cuts (adjusted for inflation) would
grow over the next 5
years.

Mr. Essig looks at the impact of these cuts on Georgia and sees
tremendous negative
implications. "The proposed funding cuts and policies for making
future cuts will place
an increased hardship on thousands of Georgia's citizens, many of
whom are already our
most vulnerable—low income working families, senior citizens,
children, and the
unemployed. These cuts will not reduce the deficit. Due to large tax
cuts, the federal
deficit will actually increase."
For the full report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
go to
http://www.cbpp.org/2-23-06bud.pdf.

ABOUT GBPI
The Georgia Budget and Policy Institute (GBPI) is the state's
leading independent,
nonprofit, non-partisan organization engaged in research and
education on the fiscal and
economic health of the state of Georgia. The Institute provides
reliable and timely
analyses of Georgia's budget and tax policies and promotes greater
state government
fiscal accountability, improved services and an enhanced quality of
life for all Georgians.

Community Calendar

For People interested in DISABILITY EVENTS

Have a Statewide or Regional Event to Post? Please email it to
esfoss@... for consideration. Please note we don't post
support groups or fundraisers.




March 2006


March 1-4, 2006

Learning Disabilities Association's National Conference

New Orleans, LA

Contact: www.ldanatl.org/conference/index.asp


March 1-4, 2006

Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities – Better All
Together Conference

University of GA – Continuing Ed. Center

Athens, GA

More details later

Contact: www.gcdd.org


March 3-5, 2006

The 2006 Josephine L. Taylor Leadership Institute

Renaissance Atlanta Hotel Downtown

Atlanta, GA

Contact: www.afb.org/jlti.asp


March 8, 2006

American Association of People with Disabilities' 2006 Gala

Contact: www.aapd-dc.org


March 9-11, 2006

Annual Fellowship of Developmental Disabilities Ministries (FDDM)
Workshop

Virginia Baptist Resource Center

Richmond, VA

Contact: Wayne Coley at Wcoleyvbch@...


March 10, 2006

Aggression & Restraint: Prevention, Management, & the Law

Woodstock, GA

Contact: Robert W. Montgomery, Ph.D

Reinforcement Unlimited

770-591-9552 or fax at 770-516-4191

www.behavior-consultant.com


March 10-13, 2006

2006 National Disability Sport Conference

University of Georgia

Contact: www.blazesports.com or email: NDSC2006@...


March 11-12, 2006

The 13th Annual Larry Bregman MD Educational Conference "No Obstacles"

Georgia Perimeter College

Dunwoody, GA

Contact Lisa or Jody at: bregman@...

Or 770-677-9344


March 12-14, 2006

National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) Green Building Conference

Contact: www.nahb.org/meeting_details.aspx?
meetingID=3249&sectionID=121 for more information

Or call Mark Johnson at the Shepherd Center at 404-350-7490


March 13-14, 2006

National Council on Disability Quarterly Meeting

9:00am – 5:00pm, Disney Coronado Springs Resort

Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Contact: www.ncd.gov


March 13-14, 2006

Easter Seals Project Action – People on the Move: Using All
Transportation Options (ADA & Beyond)

Increasing Accessible Transportation

Jackson, MS

Contact: www.projectaction.org


March 19-21, 2006

Accommodating Students with Disabilities on State Assessments: What
Works?

Savannah, GA

Contact: www.ets.org/accommodationsconference


March 20-25, 2006

21st Annual California State University Northridge's
Conference, "Technology & Persons with Disabilities"

Los Angeles, CA

Contact: www.csun.edu/cod/conf/


March 26-29, 2006

Family Support America's 11th Biennial International Conference

Chicago, Ill

Contact: 312-338-0900

www.familysupportamerica.org


March 28, 2006

Tommy Nobis Center 2006 Galaxy of Stars & Tommy Awards Luncheon

The Renaissance Waverly Hotel

Atlanta, GA

Contact: 770-427-9000

Fax: 770-499-9191

www.tommynobiscenter.org



April 2006


April 6-7, 2006

Innovative Practices Conference & Creative Expressions Festival

Georgia College & State University

Milledgeville, GA

Contact: 478-445-5277


April 10-12, 2006

National Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Symposium & Expo

America's Center

St. Louis, MO

Contact: 1-800-949-4232

www.adasymposium.org



April 17-18, 2006

2006 Multiple Perspectives on Access, Inclusion & Disability

Ohio

Contact Email: ADA-OSU@...


April 18-20, 2006

National Symposium on Playground Access

University of Bloomington, Indiana

Contact: National Center on Accessibility at 812-856-4422 or visit
www.ncaonline.org


April 20-21, 2006

Curriculum Adaptation & Social Skills Training for Children & Teens
with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Atlanta, GA

Contact email: spectrumtrainingsystems@...


April 27, 2006

VSA Arts of Georgia – Annual Fundraising Gala

VSA Arts for All Gallery – Healy Building

Atlanta, GA

Contact: 404-221-1270 ext. 207

Website: www.vsaartsga.org


April 28-May 1, 2006

The Infancy & Early Childhood Training Course

Hilton McLean, Tyson's Corner, Virginia

(Adjacent to Washington, DC)

Contact: www.stanleygreenspan.com

703-847-5000


Looking Ahead…


May 2-5, 2006

American Assoc. on Mental Retardation – International Alliance for
Social Inclusion Summit

Montreal, Quebec Canada

Contact: www.aamr.org


May 8-9, 2006

Easter Seals Project Action – People on the Move: Using All
Transportation Options (ADA & Beyond)

Increasing Accessible Transportation

Alexandria, VA

Contact: www.projectaction.org


May 22-25, 2006

National Council on Independent Living 2006 Conference, "Ending the
Institutional Bias"

Grand Hyatt

Washington, DC

Contact: www.ncil.org



May 25-27, 2006

2006 Georgia Psychological Association  Annual Meeting

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

Sandestin, Florida


May 25-28, 2006

National Self-Advocacy Conference 2006

Self-Advocates Becoming Empowered (SABE)

Atlanta Hilton

Atlanta, GA

Contact: www.sabe2006.com


May 31-June 2, 2006

Fifth Annual Bridges to Employment Conference: "Exploring Career
Opportunities for Latinos with Disabilities

Holiday Inn San Antonio Riverwalk

San Antonio, TX

Contact: www.proyectovision.net


July 18-22, 2006

Association on Higher Education & Disability Annual Conference

San Diego, CA

Contact: www.ahead.org/training/conference/index.htm


July 21-23, 2006

National Annual Down Syndrome Congress Convention

Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Atlanta, GA

Contact: 800-232-6372 or 770-604-9500

www.ndsccenter.org


September 13-15, 2006

Partners for Youth with Disabilities (PYD) Conference, "Aspire,
Achieve, Empower"

Boston, MA

Contact: www.pyd.org  or www.pyd.org/national-center/conference.htm


October 4-6, 2006

US Business Leadership Network 2006 Conference

Minneapolis Marriott City Center

Minneapolis, MN

Contact: Greg Lambert at sorshipinfo@... or call at 612-727-7177

Websites: www.mnbln.org or www.usbln.com


October 15-18, 2006

National Spinal Cord Injury Association – Second Spinal Cord Injury
Summit and SCI Hall of Fame

Hyatt Regency

Bethesda, MD.

Contact: www.spinalcord.org

Notice of upcoming Medicaid Commission meeting in Atlanta, GA.
Please read below:

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation; Medicaid
Program; Meeting of the Medicaid Commission--March 13-15, 2006

AGENCY: Assistant Secretary for Planning & Evaluation (ASPE), HHS.
ACTION: Notice of meeting.

---------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This notice announces a public meeting of the Medicaid
Commission. Notice of this meeting is given under the Federal
Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App. 2, section 10(a)(1) and (a)
(2)). The Medicaid Commission will advise the Secretary on ways to
modernize the Medicaid program so that it can provide high-quality
health care to its beneficiaries in a financially sustainable way.

DATES: The Meeting: March 13-15, 2006. The meeting will begin at 6
p.m. on March 13, 9 a.m. on March 14, and 8:30 a.m. on March 15.
Special Accommodations: Persons attending the meeting who are
hearing or visually impaired, or have a condition that requires
special assistance or accommodations, are asked to notify the
Medicaid Commission by March 3, 2006 (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
CONTACT).

ADDRESSES: The Meeting: The meeting will be held at the following
address: Crowne Plaza-Atlanta-Perimeter N.W., 6345 Powers Ferry Road,
NW., Atlanta, GA 30339, United States, telephone: 1 (770) 955-1700,
fax: 1 (770) 850-0444.

Web site: You may access up-to-date information on the Medicaid
Commission at http://aspe.hhs.gov/medicaid/.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Margaret Reiser, (202) 205-8255.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On May 24, 2005, we published a notice (70
FR 29765) announcing the Medicaid Commission and requesting
nominations for individuals to serve on the Medicaid Commission. This
notice announces a public meeting of the Medicaid Commission.

Topics of the Meeting
The Commission will discuss options for making longer-term
recommendations on the future of the Medicaid program that ensure
long-term sustainability. Issues to be addressed may include, but are
not limited to: Eligibility, benefit design, and delivery; expanding
the number of people covered with quality care while recognizing
budget constraints; long term care; quality of care, choice, and
beneficiary satisfaction; and program administration.

Procedure and Agenda
This meeting is open to the public. There will be a public comment
period at the meeting. The Commission may limit the number and
duration of oral presentations to the time available. We will request
that you declare at the meeting whether or not you have any financial
involvement related to any services being discussed.
After the presentations and public comment period, the Commission
will deliberate openly. Interested persons may observe the
deliberations, but the Commission will not hear further comments
during this time except at the request of the Chairperson. The
Commission will also allow an open public session for any attendee to
address issues specific to the topic.

Authority: 5 U.S.C. App. 2, section 10(a)(1) and (a)(2).
Dated: February 16, 2006.

Mary M. McGeein,
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, Office of
Disability, Aging and Long-Term Care.
[FR Doc. E6-2608 Filed 2-23-06; 8:45 am]

Maria Greene, Director
Division of Aging Services
Two Peachtree St., NW
Suite 9-270
Atlanta, Georgia 30303-3142
magreene@...

WE NEED YOUR HELP!   PLEASE ACT NOW!

House Bill 898 is in danger of being dropped or significantly
reduced.

If you are a parent or are an advocate for a child who is currently
attending or is planning to attend a postsecondary institution then
please pick up the phone now and call the office of the Higher
Education Chairman, Representative Bill Hembree (404-656-5146).
Please inform him that you are in support of House Bill 898 in its
current state.   The title is:  House Bill 898 Providing
Postsecondary Education for Electronic Text Legislation. The intent
of this bill is to require publishers to provide accessible
educational materials (an electronic version) to postsecondary
students with print access disabilities.


For a summary of HB 898 please see:
http://www.ldag.org/survey1105.htm

Please Act Now – Your Call Will Make A Difference!
Representative Bill Hembree
Capitol Phone:  404-656-5146

APS Healthcare and the Division of MHDDAD together present a 3- hour workshop on Person Centered Supports and Advocacy featuring internationally known speaker David Pitonyak.  This training will provide an inspiring look at supporting people with challenging behaviors and assisting family members to advocate for the life that they choose, and help participants think outside the box in creating a meaningful life in the community.  The intended audience for this workshop is individuals with disabilities and their family members.

The training will be held on on March 2nd from 6pm - 9pm in Athens, GA at the UGA Conference Center.  This session will be held at the same location as the Better All Together conference, however this session is FREE and open to the public.  Please visit the following link for more information and registration:

http://www.gcdd.org/home/BAT/Advocacy%20Announcement%20-%20DavidP%20-%203-2.pdf

(If the above link does not work in your email you may need to paste it in your browser or visit www.gcdd.org and click the link on the left side of the page)

Disability Day at the Capitol: Our Votes Make a Difference!
Thursday, February 23, 2006
10:00-2:00

Pre-D Day Checklist:
RSVP at www.gcdd.org or (404) 657-2126!
Bring your ID if you have it!
Wear your red!
Check the website for directions!
Invite your legislator to lunch at the Depot!

Schedule

Capitol Education Center: 9:00-9:50
Auditorium: Pre-Disability Day Legislative Advocacy Training with Pat
Nobbie, GCDD Deputy Director

10:00-10:30 Visit legislators on your own, register to vote at the
Capitol

Our Votes Make A Difference Rally, 2nd Floor, South Wing at the
Capitol
10:30-Welcome, Tom Seegmueller, Chair, Governor's Council on DD
10:35-Recognition of Fallen Soldiers, Bernard Baker, People First of
Georgia
10:40-Direct Support Professionals Resolution, Rep. Judy Manning,
Beth Tumlin, Lisa Robinson
10:50-Our Votes Make A Difference Chant , Samuel Mitchell, President,
Atlanta ADAPT
March from the Capitol to the Freight Depot 11:00-11:45 a.m.

Our Voices Make a Difference: Formal Program at the Freight Depot
12:00-Welcome and Opening Remarks · Eric Jacobson, Executive
Director,
Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD)
12:10-Legislative Update · Pat Nobbie, Deputy Director, GCDD
12:20-Updates from Advocates
· Nandi Isaac, Unlock the Waiting Lists!, Macon
· Terry Langley, Children's Freedom Initiative, McDonough
· Tressia Watkins, Katie Beckett Waiver, Dalton
· Shelia Kitchens, Voting Matters!, Walton Options, Augusta
12:30-Lt. Governor's Remarks
Introduction by Tom Seegmueller
Remarks by Lt. Governor Mark Taylor
12:45-Legislative Leadership
Rep. Glenn Richardson, Hiram
Sen. Eric Johnson, Savannah
Sen. Greg Goggans, Douglas
Representative Jeff Brown
Representative Ben Harbin
Charge and  Closing Remarks 1:10 PM
Luncheon        served during the program


After Lunch & Program
· View Sponsor Displays in the Depot's Blue Room, 11:00-2:00
· Visit Your Legislators at the Capitol on your own, until 5:00
· Film Screening in the Depot's Blue Room featuring three short films:
Disability Day Every Day, Longing for Home, Unlocking Hope, 1:15-1:45

Post-Disability Day Activities
· Public Meeting of the Georgia Alliance for Direct Support
Professionals, all direct support professionals welcome to attend.
Capitol Education Center, Auditorium, 2:00-4:00 PM
· Volunteer Training for the Livable Lifetime Show House by the
Universal Design Alliance, all potential volunteer welcome to attend,
Capitol Education Center, Assembly Room 1, 2:00 to 5:00, for more
information see http://www.universaldesignalliance.com/ .


Disability Day at the Capitol is sponsored by the Governor's Council
on Developmental Disabilities in partnership with:

  Albany Advocacy Resource Center
The Arc of Georgia
The Arc of Satilla
The Arc of Walker County
tlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities
Atlanta Aphasia Association
B&B Care Services
Brain & Spinal Injury Trust Fund Commission
Brain Injury Resource Foundation
CETPA, Inc.
The Coca-Cola Company
Disability Law  and Policy Center of Georgia, Inc.
disABILITY LINK
Dougherty for Children
Easter Seals Southern Georgia
EasyLiving Home
Friends of  Carla Lindemann
Fulton County Office of Disability Affairs
Fulton County Department of MHDDAD
Georgia Advocacy Office
Georgia Alliance of Direct Support Professionals
Georgia Association of Community Service Boards, Inc.
Georgia Community Supports and Solutions
Georgia Council for the Hearing Impaired
Georgia Department of Labor—Rehabilitation Services
Jewish Family & Career Services
Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta
The Marcus Institute
National Federation of the Blind of Georgia
Parent to Parent of Georgia
ResCare
Shepherd Center
Southern Company
State of Georgia ADA Coordinator's Office/GSFIC
Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia
Unlock the Waiting Lists!

An Invitation from The Georgia Peer Support Project

  Here is an opportunity for you to experience the
power of peer support!

Peer Support is one person with a disability using their life
experiences to support another person with a disability to learn life
strategies, become a self-advocate and live more independently.

Do you?

·        Have a disability?

·        Live in the Atlanta, Macon or Rome areas?

·        Have goals to become more independent?

Are you?

·        Interested in receiving peer support?

·        Available to experience peer support between April and July
2006?

Will you?

·        Agree to participate in The Georgia Peer Support Project
evaluation?

·        Complete (with as much detail as possible) the attached
application and return it by February 28?

The Georgia Peer Support Project wishes to connect with people with
disabilities who would like to experience peer support and who are
willing to have the experience evaluated by an independent
researcher.  One-to-one peer support would be provided by trained and
certified peer supporters.  Meetings between you and the peer
supporter would be arranged by mutual convenience in your home or a
location in the community.

Applications are due by Feb 28. For an application, please contact:

Linda Pogue, Project Coordinator
disABILITY LINK
755 Commerce Drive #415
Decatur GA 30030
Phone:  404-687-8890 x114
FAX:  404-687-8298
GreenPogue@...

This project is being funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid
Services through a grant to the Georgia Department of Human Resources
in collaboration with The Governor's Council on Developmental
Disabilities and disABILITY LINK, in partnership with Disability
Connections (in Macon) and disABILITY LINK NW (in Rome). Thank you
for your interest.