News and Updates
Community Pathways
Newsletter: Friday, December 4th
COVID-19 Vaccine Updates
There are several COVID-19 vaccines in development right now, and two have now applied for emergency approval through the FDA. There are no vaccines approved yet for use in the US at this time. The first doses are expected in December 2020, and the supply will increase over the following months. The vaccine will be free and it will first be available for frontline workers and those who are at high risk of contracting the virus (such as individuals who reside in assisted living facilities). Individuals with disabilities will also be among the first to eligible for the vaccine- we will share more information as it becomes available.
Even when the vaccine becomes available, the CDC still recommends everyone continue social distancing, hand washing/using hand sanitizer often and wearing a face covering to keep everyone safe. It could take some time before there is enough vaccines for everyone.
For more information and updates on the progress for COVID-19 vaccines, visit the CDC’s website here.
Also keep an eye on our Facebook page and website for updates on COVID-19 and the vaccine.
Holiday Safety
Just like Thanksgiving, the winter holidays will look a bit different than usual. But that doesn’t mean we can’t have a wonderful time!
The CDC recommends only spending the holidays with those you live with. Travel can increase the chance of getting and spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others! Get your flu shot, social distance, wear a face covering and make sure to wash your hands and use hand sanitizer often.
Safer activities you can do with friends are family during the holidays are:
Doing a virtual Secret Santa with friends and family, then mail your gifts or drop them off on a doorstep. Host a follow up zoom party so everyone can open their gifts together!
Hosting a Zoom party or dinner: singing holiday songs, opening gifts, and sharing memories
Hosting a virtual cookie party: everyone can make their favorite cookies and share recipes
Playing a virtual game with friends or family, such as Bingo, Trivia or Scattergories
Having a game, puzzle or Holiday-themed movie night with the people who live with you
Go caroling in your neighborhood (make sure to social distance and wear a face covering)
Drive around local neighborhoods and admire the holiday lights
Decorate your home and make it a little more special than usual, or go all out for your holiday meals!
For more information on the CDC’s guidelines for the holidays, see here.
December Holidays and Culture
During the month of December there are many holidays which are celebrated by many different cultures. Learning more about of these different holidays and cultures is a great way to participate in your community!
Christmas (Christian)
Christmas originated as a Christian holiday, which celebrated the birth of Jesus and falls on December 25th. However, there are many non-religious Christmas traditions which vary around the world. In the US, we celebrate with a Christmas tree, giving presents, leaving milk and cookies for Santa Claus and dreaming of snow.
In Australia, Christmas falls during the summer, so it is popular to go to the beach or go camping! Some Australians decorate a “Christmas Bush”, which is a native Australian tree with small green leaves and flowers which turn red in the summer.
In the UK, children leave mince pies and brandy for Father Christmas. In Iceland, there are 13 Santas, known as Yule Lads (one arrives each night in the thirteen days before Christmas, leaving small gifts in shoes left on window sills). All across Eastern Europe, there are outdoor Christmas markets complete with hot wine and sweet treats.
Read more about how Christmas is celebrated around the world here.
Boxing Day
Boxing Day takes place on December 26 – this holiday originated during the Middle Ages in the UK. It was the day where church collection boxes were opened and their contents distributed to the poor. It was also the day where servants were given the day off to celebrate Christmas with their families.
Boxing Day has now become a public holiday in Canada, Australia and New Zealand (along with a few others, including the Bahamas, where it is celebrated with a festival called Junkanoo). Learn more about the origins of Boxing Day here.
Winter Solstice
The winter solstice is celebrated all over the world in many cultures, even before Christmas came to be.
Feast of Juul (Scandinavian) celebrates the solstice by burning a yule log on the fire in honor of the god, Thor.
St. Lucia’s Day (Scandinavian) is also called the festival of lights – fires are lit to ward off spirits at night. Girls also dress up in white gowns with red sashes and wear wreaths of candles on their heads to honor the saint.
Shab-e-Yalda (Persia/Iran) marks the last day of the Persian month of Azar during ancient times. It celebrates the victory of light over dark and the birth of the sun god Mithra.
Saturnalia (ancient Roman) celebrated the end of the planting season. It was marked by games, feasts and gift-giving for several days.
Dong Zhi (Chinese) celebrates the end of harvest and the arrival of winter. Families gather together to enjoy a feast.
Gody (Poland) the tradition of showing forgiveness and sharing food.
Chaomos (Kalasha, Pakistan) celebrated for at least seven days, involving ritual baths for purification, singing and chanting, a torchlight procession, dancing, bonfires and feasts.
St. Thomas Day/Sun God festival (Guatemala) is the feast day of St. Thomas the Apostle, celebrated on December 21st. Mayan Indians also hold a festival honoring the sun god on this day. It is celebrated with fanfare including colorful parades and the daring flying pole dance in Peru.
Bodhi Day (Buddhist)
Bodhi Day celebrates Buddha’s awakening. It has become a celebration of enlightenment and a day for remembrance, meditation and chanting. The exact date of celebration varies. At the start of Bodhi day, people decorate a ficus tree with multi-colored lights. Learn more about Bodhi Day here.
Hanukkah (Jewish)
Hanukkah, or Chanukah, is an eight-day Jewish celebration that honors the re-dedication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem following the Maccabean Revolt. Those who took part in the re-dedication witnessed what they believed to be a miracle - there was only enough untainted oil to keep the menorah’s candles burning for a single day, but they continued to burn for eight nights.
Also known as the Festival of Lights, the date of Hanukkah varies from year to year, but lasts for eight nights. Celebrations center upon lighting the menorah. On each night, another candle is added to the menorah and is lit after the sun sets. The ninth candle, called the shamash (“helper”), is used to light the others. Usually blessings are recited and traditional Hanukkah foods such as potato pancakes (latkes) and jam-filled donuts (sufganiyot) are fried in oil. Other Hanukkah customs include playing with dreidels and exchanging gifts. Learn more about Hanukkah here.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966. He combined aspects of several different “first fruit”, or harvest celebrations. The name Kwanzaa comes from the phrase “matunda ya kwanza” which means “first fruits” in Swahili.
Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday – it is a 7-day (December 26-January 1) celebration of African heritage and culture. It features the lighting of the kinara each day, similar to the lighting of the menorah during Hanukkah.
Each day is represented by one of the 7 principles of Kwanzaa: Umoja (unity), kujichagulia (self-determination), ujima (collective work and responsibility), ujamaa (cooperative economics), nia (purpose), kuumba (creativity), and imani (faith). To greet another person who celebrates Kwanzaa, you say “Habari gani” (Swahili). They would reply with the principle for that day.
Each family celebrates Kwanzaa in its own way, but usually songs and dances are involved, African drums, storytelling, poetry reading, and a large traditional meal. On each of the seven nights, a child lights one of the candles on the Kinara and one of the seven principles is discussed. An African feast, called a Karamu, is held on December 31. Learn more about Kwanzaa here.
Japanese New Year (Ōmisoka)
Ōmisoka, New Year’s Eve, is considered the second-most important day in Japanese tradition as it is the final day of the old year and the eve of New Year’s Day, the most important day of the year. Families gather on Ōmisoka for one last time in the old year to have a bowl of long soba or udon noodles to signify crossing over to the new year.
At midnight, many visit shrines or temples for Hatsumōde. Shinto shrines prepare amazake (sweet rice wine) to pass out to crowds and most Buddhist temples have large cast bells that are struck once for each of the 108 earthly desires believed to cause human suffering. Learn more about Ōmisoka here.
Holiday Recipe
This month we have chosen a recipe that is popular in many different cultures – the potato pancake! It is eaten all over Eastern Europe and Russia, and is associated with Jewish cuisine as well. It is delicious with many different toppings and is made many different ways!
Latkes (Potato Pancakes)
Recipe from Basics with Babish
Ingredients
4 large russet (baking) potatoes
1 small onion
3-4 eggs
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil
Optional Toppings (pick any of the below, or eat them plain!)
Applesauce
Sour cream
Smoked salmon, dill, and cream cheese
Pastrami, whole grain mustard, and pickles
Cream cheese and red pepper jelly
Yogurt, pomegranate seeds, sliced habanero peppers, and honey
Materials
Potato peeler
Cheese grater
Kitchen towel
1 Large bowl and 1 small bowl
Fork or whisk
12” skillet
Wire rack
Instructions
Wash and peel 4 large russet potatoes and then grate them into a large bowl. Peel and grate the onion into the bowl with the potatoes.
Put the grated potatoes and onion onto a fresh/clean kitchen towel. Twist the towel to wring as much water out of the potatoes as you can into a small bowl. You should end up with about a ½ cup of water from 4 potatoes. Don’t throw this away!
Put your grated potato and onion back into the large bowl.
After about 5 minutes, all the white starch will settle at the bottom of the small bowl. Empty the top part of the water into the sink, leaving the starch.
Add 3 eggs into the small bowl with the starch and beat together using a fork or a whisk.
Pour the egg and starch mixture into your large bowl with the potatoes and onion, along with a cup of panko breadcrumbs. Mix together by hand until the mixture holds its shape when pressed together. Add another beaten egg if the mixture does not hold its shape at first.
Form the potato mixture into flat rounds and set aside on a plate.
Into a 12” skillet, add about ½ inch of vegetable oil and turn to medium-high heat. Add the latkes and fry each side for 4-5 minutes, or until deeply golden brown and crispy.
Once fully cooked, place the latkes on a wire rack to drain and season with kosher salt immediately after coming out of the oil.
Top the latkes however you’d like and enjoy!
Upcoming Events
REACH Flu Clinic and COVID-19 Testing Site
The REACH Flu Clinic and COVID-19 Testing site (in partnership with Portland Community College and Multnomah County Communicable Disease Services) will now be operating every Wednesday through March 31st. No insurance is required.
Call 503-988-8939 to schedule your appointment!
You can read more information about the Coronavirus and the Multnomah County response here.
When: 11:00AM – 6:00PM, Wednesdays through March 31, 2021
Where: PCC Cascade Campus Parking Lot 1, entrance on Albina St. (MAP)
Portland Parks and Rec Adaptive & Inclusive Holly Jolly Events
Virtual Dance (Holiday Dress)
Come join a virtual dance! Games, prizes and a holiday sing along!
Date: Friday, December 4th
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 PM PST
Zoom Information:
Meeting ID: 517 487 0950 / Password: 425309
Potluck Fun
Come join for art, a virtual potluck and musical fun! No special supplies necessary!
Date: Tuesday, December 8th
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 PM PST
Zoom Information:
Meeting ID: 868 1249 6273 / Password: 696098
GAMES
Come join for fun games! Bingo, Outburst, 20 questions, Scavenger Hunt and others!
Date: Thursday, December 10th
Time: 5:00 – 6:30 PM PST
Zoom Information:
Meeting ID: 818 4323 1526 / Password: 386170
PHAME Virtual Winter Concert
This year's event will feature virtual choir videos from PHAME's Choir and Rock Ensemble, as well as performance videos created by PHAME students. Their winter-themed event will put you in the mood for hot cocoa, warm sweaters, and the joy of a cozy evening at home. Come celebrate the winter season with PHAME! After you register, you will be sent a Zoom link to participate.
Date: Wednesday, December 9th
Time: 7:00 – 8:00PM PST
UCP Connections Self-Advocates Music Social Hour
Join the UCP Connections Self-Advocates for their weekly social hour! Each person can share 1-2 songs with the group and some fun facts about it. Make sure your songs are appropriate! There will be a breakout room available if you don’t want to hear a particular song, or if you just want to chat!
Date: Tuesday, December 8th
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 PM PST
Zoom Information:
Meeting ID: 735 560 8520 / No Password
Office Closures
Our offices will be closed on Thursday, December 24th, Friday, December 25th and Friday, January 1st in observance of the Christmas and New Year Holidays.
Community Pathways wishes all of you a very warm holiday season (whichever you may celebrate!) and a Happy New Year! We will see you all in 2021!
Newsletter: Friday, November 6th
New Face Covering Guidelines
The OHA has recently put out new state-wide guidance that masks are now required for people age 5 and older.
Masks, face coverings or face shields are currently required state-wide for:
All private and public workplaces (like banks, classrooms, construction sites, offices and meeting rooms — unless someone is alone in an office or in a private workspace).
Indoor public spaces — (like grocery stores, pharmacies, public transit, personal services providers, restaurants, bars and retail stores).
Public and private colleges and universities, and private career schools.
Indoor and outdoor markets and street fairs.
Outdoor public spaces when physical distancing of at least six feet is not possible.
This guidance also applies to personal support workers and customers while in their private homes, as well as while riding in a car with someone who you do not live with. Riders should sit as far apart as they can.
People with a disability or medical condition may request accommodation from a business or public space if they cannot wear a mask.
OHA does not recommend wearing a plastic face shield alone.
While face shields can be very good at blocking droplets, they are not as good at stopping aerosols that can go around the shield. OHA recommends face shields only be used on a limited basis, for example when talking to someone who is deaf or hard of hearing and needs to read lips to communicate.
Spam Calls - Social security administration
We have heard that recently individuals have received calls from scammers impersonating the SSA (social security administration) saying that their SSN (social security number) has been suspended due to fraud. These are fake calls. The SSA will never call you to give this information - if you ever receive a call like this one, hang up right away. If any customers receive calls like this one, please let your PA know so we can circulate the information.
For more in-depth information on current scams and scammers, please take a look at our September 4 newsletter.
Customer Satisfaction Survey
Back in January of 2020, we sent out a satisfaction survey to all customers. We asked whether customers are getting the supports they need, if they know how to file a complaint, and how happy they are with our services. We also asked what they wanted to see in our newsletter and on our Facebook page, as well as what kind of events they would want to come to. We got 114 surveys back – thank you to all of you who replied! Getting your feedback is so important, because it allows us to hear your concerns and serve you better. We appreciate your input!
Feedback on our Services
We learned that out of those who responded:
95% of customers said that we helped them to meet their needs/achieve their goals
93% of customers told us that their plan said what they wanted it to say
89% of customers were getting the supports and services they needed
57% of customers have been with us for over 5 years
51% of customers filled out the survey themselves
97% of customers were satisfied with the brokerage services we offer
We also learned that:
82% of customers knew what to do to file a complaint
Although this is a high percentage, we wanted to make sure that everyone was aware of our complaint policy! You can find out more about how to file a complaint here. Scroll down to “You Have a Right to File a Grievance or Concern with Community Pathways, Inc”. You can also ask your PA for assistance.
Feedback on Social Media/Newsletter
We found out that a lot of you want to know about upcoming social events and parties! This is great to know – once it is safe to do so, we will begin hosting more social events.
We also saw that you would like to see more photos of activities, customer stories and housing information. We’ve heard you, and will be using your feedback for our upcoming social media posts and newsletters.
If you are interested in sharing a story with us, please do so! We are always thrilled to read these stories and share them in future newsletters.
CPI will be sending out our 2021 customer satisfaction survey in the new year, so make sure to stay on the lookout for it!
Veteran’s Day - Virtual Statewide Celebration
Although the Portland Veteran’s Day parade has been cancelled this year due to COVID-19, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs will be holding a virtual celebration with remarks from Governor Brown and ODVA Director Kelly Fitzpatrick.
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Time: 11:00AM PST
Join here: facebook.com/odvavet
COVID-19 resources are available here for military veterans and their families.
For news about the veteran community in Oregon, visit the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs website.
Sign Up for The Disability NEWS
The Disability News is created and sent out twice per month by the City of Portland’s Disability Program, part of the Office of Community & Civic Life. The NEWS shares events, resources and other information that is relevant for those with disabilities in our communities.
You can subscribe to the Disability News by e-mailing disabilitynews@portlandoregon.gov. You can also check out their Facebook site, or view online (including back issues) here.
TriMet and FACT Oregon want to hear from families experiencing disability
TriMet and FACT Oregon want your feedback to help keep riders safe, including those with disabilities. Take the TriMet Safety Survey today.
TriMet Y FACT Oregon están interesados en recibir sus comentarios para ayudar a mantener seguros a los pasajeros, incluyendo a los pasajeros con discapacidades. ¡Asegúrese de que se escuche su voz! Llene la Encuesta de seguridad de TriMet hoy.
Make sure your voice is heard! Help TriMet reinvent the future of public safety.
Recipe: Wild Mushroom Stuffing
Source: What’s Gaby Cooking
Do you love the food at Thanksgiving, but are tired of the plain old stuffing that you usually make? Try out this recipe for Wild Mushroom Stuffing!
Ingredients:
1 loaf of French bread cut into cubes
10 tablespoons butter
1 pound wild mushrooms (regular is fine)
2 shallots and two bunches of green onions (thinly sliced)
2 stalks of celery (chopped)
3/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley (or ¼ cup dried)
2 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 tbsp dried oregano)
2 tablespoon chopped fresh sage (or 1 tbsp dried sage)
2 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 tbsp dried thyme)
3 large garlic cloves (minced)
2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 large eggs
2 cups chicken broth or vegetable stock if you want to keep it vegetarian
4 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Spread the cubed bread on a large rimmed baking sheet and transfer into the oven. Bake until bread is dry, about 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and shallots and cook until golden brown, about 7 minutes. Add the celery, green onions, herbs, garlic, salt and pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes more.
Generously grease a large baking dish.
Place the bread cubes in large bowl. Add the warm vegetable mixture; toss to combine.
Whisk the eggs, parmesan and 3/4 cup broth in medium bowl - add egg mixture to stuffing and toss to coat.
Add more broth (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup) to stuffing if it still looks and feels dry. Transfer to baking dish.
Cover baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Take out the baking dish and remove foil; return the dish to the oven and bake until golden brown, about 30 more minutes.
Thanksgiving Craft – Construction Paper Turkey
Source: Twitchetts.com
A great craft for adults and kids alike! Hang this paper turkey or use as a table centerpiece. You can view the craft here.
Materials:
· Construction paper – 1 sheet each of red, orange, yellow and brown
· White glue
· Googly eyes
· Scissors or paper cutter
· Stapler and staples
· Clothespin
Directions:
Source: Twitchett’s
1. Cut your red, orange and yellow construction paper into 1-inch strips.
2. Put the strips into 5 groups of 5, and stack the different colors on top of one another (ex. red, orange, yellow, orange red). Stagger the ends of the paper strips about an inch for each color. Cut the ends of the paper stack evenly.
3. Bring all of the ends together in a teardrop shape and staple them together.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 above four more times, making 5 teardrop-shaped “feathers”.
5. Put a dot of white glue between each “feather” teardrop and staple them all together from both sides.
6. Close your feather tail together with a clothespin until dry.
7. While your turkey feathers are drying, take a piece of brown construction paper and draw a turkey body (like a peanut) and cut it out.
8. Glue two googly eyes onto the body.
9. Cut out a small triangle (the beak) out of your scrap piece of orange paper and a small peanut shape (the turkey waddle) out of your scrap piece of red paper. Glue your beak and waddle to the turkey body.
10. Once the tail is dry, attach your body to it with glue! Enjoy your cute paper turkey!
Upcoming Events
Guided Meditation & Healing with Dr. Neera Malhotra
All Born In (ABI) is hosting free 30 minute Zoom meditation workshops every other Wednesday through the end of December with Dr. Neera Malhotra. Meditation is a great way to ease stress, focus on the present and reduce negative emotions! We can all use a bit of calm during these times.
Date(s): November 18, December 2nd and December 16th, 2020
Time: 1:00-1:30PM, PST
You can register here. If you have any issues, please e-mail: info@nwdsa.org, or call 503-238-0522.
FREE Virtual Conference - Disability in Emergency Preparedness Conference
Join a free, virtual conference November 17-18, 2020 about emergency preparedness. It will be facilitated by the Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies.
Date/Times: Tuesday, Nov 17: 8:30 am-4:30 pm and Wednesday, Nov 18: 8:30 am-12:00 pm
As We Are: Disability Justice and Community Care Conference (webinar)
Sign up for a FREE online conference about disability justice and community care.
Date: December 5th & 6th, 2020
Time: 10:30 am-3 pm PST
November Office Closures
Veteran’s Day
Community Pathways honors and thanks our Nation’s military veterans, both past and present, for their sacrifice and service. Our offices will be closed on Wednesday, November 11th in observance.
Thanksgiving
Our offices will be closed on Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27 for Thanksgiving.
We wish you and yours a very happy and safe holiday!
Newsletter: Friday, October 2nd
Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Appreciation Week - provider spotlight
DSP Appreciation week took place September 13-19, 2020. DSPs are people who provide in home, community, and employment supports. DSPs may seem similar to Personal Support Workers (PSWs) but there are some differences.
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) work with people with disabilities to help them lead a more self-directed life by participating in their community. This includes helping connect the person with employment, education or other community opportunities. A DSP also acts as an advocate, in communicating the person’s needs, self-expression and goals if required.
A personal support worker (PSW) can be a family member, friend, or a trained worker from the community. Duties can be very different for each PSW, though they can include general housekeeping, personal hygiene assistance, bedside care, dispersion of medication, and transportation. PSWs can work directly with the individual who needs services, or can be hired through a provider organization.
Provider Spotlight: Tara Aas, Director of Employment Services, Amie's Community Care, LLC
In recognition of DSP Appreciation week, CPI spoke to one of the awesome Provider Organizations who employ DSPs. We talked with Tara Aas, who works as a DSP and is the Director of Employment Services at Amie’s Community Care, LLC, and asked about her take on the pandemic and how being in this field has changed her life.
Tell me a little bit about yourself, and how you got into this field.
Some of Tara’s travel photos
I was born in Oregon and have a lot of family in the Portland-Metro area that I'm very close to and keep me grounded here (though I love to travel when I can!).
I knew I wanted to be a teacher from a young age, and I completed my Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in teaching at Western Oregon University. My first job was as a substitute teacher in Salem-Keizer School District, then Beaverton and Hillsboro School Districts before finally landing a job as a third grade teacher at a school in Beaverton School District where I taught for two years. I remember that often there were teachers who constantly complained about and refused to support those students who were misunderstood, and thus exhibited difficult behaviors or challenges. I told my principal to put all those students in my classroom – I knew they would be in a safe space with a teacher who valued them as individuals and fought for their education and well-being. Unfortunately, I lost my job due to budget cuts at the end of that school year. There was little to no hope of getting a job the next year.
At that time, I was the Kids Ministry Administrator at a church in Hillsboro where both Amie Scott and Shannon McCurry were heavily involved, as well. When they heard about my career struggles, they strongly requested that I join their team at Amie's Community Care. I knew that it was the right decision to join the team, as I strongly believed in everything they fought and stood for.
In August of 2017, I started at Amie’s Community Care as a DSP, and would also build their DSA program that fall. I then took on a position as Regional Coordinator overseeing multiple departments and developing our systems to make our agency more efficient. Months later, we decided to move our company into employment services – it has been such a challenging and rewarding experience that has allowed me to use a vast array of the skills and knowledge I've acquired over the years!
What are your favorite things about your job?
Goodness, where to begin! Some of my favorite things about this job are being able to have a direct impact in bettering individuals lives, especially those who often don't get the support and care they truly need and deserve. In employment especially, I love those exciting moments when we help our customers hone in on what they really want to do, or when they finally find a job! You can't help but be over the moon excited with them! I've been very fortunate enough to work with a really cool team of diverse people, but also have had opportunities to wear multiple hats and take on new projects or challenges. My job is never boring!
How have things changed for your work since the pandemic started?
At first, almost all employment shut down, but because of my experience in other areas of the company, I was able to fill our customers’ needs. By April, almost all managers were back in the field. Since this summer, I've been able to slowly build our employment department back up and take on new clients, while others are still waiting to see what happens with COVID. We've even been partnering with other VR agencies to help develop hybrid virtual opportunities to meet the needs of customers in very remote areas outside of our service area. I am temporarily overseeing all incoming customers for any services they need, as well as promoting our services to help as many people as we can!
What are your silver linings for the pandemic?
The nature of our job is to be out helping people, even as a manager, and I've barely been at home. It's been a stressful year, and this pandemic has brought on new challenges, both personally and professionally.
All of that being said, the greatest silver lining was being pulled to work with a wonderful woman who was new to our agency at the beginning of this pandemic. She came to us at first simply needing indirect supports. After delivering groceries to her a couple of times, I soon realized that she needed much more. We discovered that she was stuck in a domestic abuse situation that she was having trouble getting out of. I was the right person to help at the right time and was able to build a beautiful relationship with her and help get her to safety. Our team and her Personal Agent came together to make this happen, and I'm so blessed to have had an amazing PA to partner with in helping her!
We were able to get her out of an incredibly toxic and abusive living situation and she is now in a home which is safe, clean and beautiful! With the transition, we were no longer able to continue providing services for her. I still talk to her often to check in and make sure she's happy, cared for, and ultimately doing well. Her spirit and fight touched my heart so deeply, and I feel incredibly blessed to be a part of her journey.
What are three fun facts about you?
Tara’s wedding
1) I got married this summer for the first time (yes--during a pandemic!) to an incredible man who was born in Oregon but grew up in Norway; who not only served as a Marine, but fought for our freedom in Afghanistan, and, like me, dedicates his life to wanting to help others, especially veterans and military connected families. I'm quite proud of him!
Tara’s blended cat family
2) We have a blended cat family - my sweet and sassy tortoise shell kitty, lil Miss Dudley, and my husband's two cute and spunky adopted brothers, Holmes and Watson. We hope to one day have a small farm and would love more animals! Dogs, chickens, goats, horses, and maybe even a pig, though if you ask my husband, he for some reason or another wants an owl or a turkey!
3) Whenever I'm feeling overwhelmed or like the world just isn't making sense anymore, I go for a hike, usually Saddle Mountain, as a way to simply reset and gain a new perspective. Something about a challenging hike, especially one on my own, helps to remind and encourage me that if I can do this, I can deal with whatever stress is weighing me down or ahead.
*some of these responses have been edited for brevity and clarity
Voter Registration – General Election Nov 3, 2020
The General Election is coming up (Tuesday, November 3, 2020)! Now is the time to make sure you are registered to vote. In Oregon, voting is done by mail. If you are registered, you will receive your ballot in the mail, and you can either return it by mail, or put it in a ballot drop box. Make sure to vote early, especially if you are planning to mail in your ballot– do not leave this task to the last minute! Ballots received after November 3rd are not counted, even if the postmark is prior to this date. Voting is your constitutional right and every vote counts.
To vote in Oregon you must:
Be a citizen of the United States
Be a resident of Oregon
Be at least 16 years old to register, and 18 years old by election day to vote
How do I register to vote in Oregon?
You may register to vote online in Oregon, or register by mail by printing a voter registration form, filling it out, and sending it to your local election office. You can also register to vote in person at your local election office if you prefer.
What is the registration deadline?
The deadline to register online or in-person is Tuesday, October 13th, 2020. If you choose to register by mail, your form must be postmarked by October 13th.
I think I may already be registered. How do I check to make sure?
You can check to see if you are registered to vote here. You will need to put in your first name, last name and date of birth to search. Voter registration information is updated daily.
How do I find my local election office?
You may search for your elections office here by county.
What documents will I need to register online?
You will need a driver’s license, driver’s permit, or ID card number issued by the Oregon DMV.
If you do not have any of these, you can still use the online form. You will need to enter some personal information (including the last 4 digits of your social security number). The information will display on a voter registration card (PDF document) that you will need to print, sign and deliver to your elections office to complete your registration.
Does Oregon have early voting?
Yes, Oregon does have early voting. You may fill out your ballot when you receive it in the mail, and drop it in a ballot box up to 18-20 days before Election Day, depending on your area. You may find a ballot drop box by visiting the Drop Box Locator. You may also contact your County Elections Official for more information.
Note: The drop box locator will not be updated until 20 days prior to the election.
What is the deadline to vote by ballot drop box or mail?
The deadline is Wednesday, October 28th, 2020 to take advantage of early voting by ballot drop box. Your ballot must be postmarked by October 28th, 2020 if it is sent in the mail.
What if I have been evacuated because of the Wildfires? How will I get my ballot?
Ballots will start being mailed on October 14, 2020. If you know where you will be after that date, you can ask for your ballot to be sent to a temporary mailing address here. If you would rather us a paper form to provide a temporary address, you must fill out the absentee ballot request form here. You do not need to re-register to vote from this temporary address.
Please note:
Your ballot will NOT be forwarded if you submitted a change of permanent address through the post office (USPS) – it is a security measure to avoid voter fraud.
If your mailbox or home was damaged in the wildfires, you can also pick up your mail (including your ballot) at your local post office, or contact your county election office (after October 1, 2020) for more options. Find your election office here.
ODHS Data Breach
You may have received a letter recently from the ODHS (Oregon Department of Human Services) about a data breach in March of 2020. Some individuals’ personal information may have been exposed but ODHS aren’t sure exactly who was affected.
The ODHS was the target of a phishing scam on March 6, 2020 (you can learn more about phishing in our September 4th newsletter), that caused sensitive information including names, dates of birth and social security numbers of individuals to be leaked and possibly misused. The State is offering free identity protection services through ID Experts for those whose personal information was exposed to scammers. If you received a letter from ODHS about this breach, we recommend that you sign up for their service package as soon as possible.
To sign up, call 833-755-1023 or visit http://ide.myidcare.com/oregon. Use the enrollment code on the letter that you received from ODHS. The deadline to sign up for these services is December 22nd, 2020. The letter will have more detailed information on what to do once you enroll.
Please Note: there is no concrete evidence that your information was used improperly, but signing up for these services makes sure that your personal information will be protected.
Advocacy
PBOT ADA Plan – Share your Input!
PBOT (Portland Bureau of Transportation) is inviting Portlanders to share their thoughts on the newly released ADA plan ("ADA Title II Public Right of Way Transition Plan"). This plan will be reviewed early next year. The deadline to submit comments is November 20, 2020.
The key pieces of the plan are to:
Identify curb ramps, pedestrian signals, and sidewalks that do not comply with ADA requirements;
Make all of PBOT's programs, policies, and procedures available to the public;
Create an accessibility complaint process for PBOT; and,
Identify the person who will be in charge of this process.
Where can I view the plan?
The draft plan is available in 11 languages. You can view the plan here.
How can I share my thoughts?
There are three ways to share your feedback:
Fill out the online survey. If you need an email, mail or phone survey, you may email Lisa Strader (ADA Coordinator) at: ADATransitionPlan@portlandoregon.gov.
Attend a virtual open house via Zoom. The next open houses will happen:
October 3 from 10:30 a.m. – NOON
October 21 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
November 6 from 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m
Invite PBOT to attend a community meeting. You can do this by contacting Lisa Strader, ADA Coordinator, ADATransitionPlan@portlandoregon.gov.
Learn more about how you can share your feedback with PBOT on their website.
OHA “Own Voices” Video Project - Share Your Story!
OHA (Oregon Health Authority) is creating a short video to help raise awareness of the experiences of people with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. By telling your story, you can help others learn how their choices affect you. What do you want people in Oregon to know about your COVID-19 experience? You might want to choose one of the questions below to answer in your short video, or you might want to share your own message:
Why is it important for everyone to wear a mask and keep their distance from others?
What harm does it do when someone falsely claims to have a disability?
How are people in your community helping each other during the pandemic?
Submit Your Video
Feel free to use a cell phone to take a video of yourself to tell your story. Here are some tips to make a great video:
Keep it short, about 15 to 20 seconds.
Film in landscape (horizontal) mode and HD if possible.
Pay attention to any surrounding sounds – a noisy background will make it harder for your voice to be heard.
Avoid brightly lit backgrounds such as a window or doorway. If possible, place a light in front of you to light your face, which will make you stand out from your background.
You can email your video to sarah.kelber@dhsoha.state.or.us.
Washington County Self-Advocacy Group – Eddie Plourde
Oregon Self Advocacy Coalition (OSAC) Board member, Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) Council Member and long-time self- advocate Eddie Plourde is working to get an advocacy group started in Washington County! The first meeting will take place in mid-October. It will be centered around self-advocacy in Washington County and Oregon. There will also be a brief overview of OSAC and a meet and greet portion.
If you or any other self-advocates you know within Washington county would like to be involved, please contact Eddie directly at: coacheddie1972@hotmail.com or 971-330-4084.
Meeting Information
Date: Tuesday, October 20th
Time: 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Join Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86353755247pwd=WHhJTi9SN0NNcERXZVdxRm1keE9iZz09
Phone: 1-253-215-8782
Meeting ID: 863 5375 5247
Passcode: 674621
Halloween Craft – Pumpkin Decorating
If you don’t like making a huge mess, or the feeling of squishy pumpkin guts, check out these different ways of decorating pumpkins!
Source: Good Housekeeping
Glitter Stem Pumpkins
Give your doorstep a little glitz and glam!
Materials:
One pumpkin
Paintbrush
Glitter craft paint
Directions:
Give the stem of your pumpkin a few coats of the glitter paint, and you’re done!
Source: Good Housekeeping
Crayon Drip Pumpkins
Use up those old crayons you have lying around the house into a fun and unique decoration.
Materials:
One pumpkin
Old crayons
Hairdryer
Directions:
Remove the paper wrappers from your crayons, and break them into small pieces
Put the crayon pieces near the pumpkin stem one by one
Point the hairdryer at each piece of crayon to melt them down the side of your pumpkin (use low heat)
As the crayons melt, be careful not to touch the hot wax.
Repeat around the whole pumpkin and let dry before displaying!
Source: Good Housekeeping
Balloon pumpkins
A burst of color that would impress any birthday clown!
Materials:
One pumpkin
Craft paint
Paintbrush
Balloon
Scissors
Directions:
Give your pumpkin one or two coats of a solid color paint, such as white or gold. Make sure the paint has dried completely before moving on to the next step.
Cut off the end of your balloon (where you blow the air in)
Stretch the balloon around the bottom of your pumpkin
Paint the top of your pumpkin in a different color than you used for your base color (don’t forget the stem!)
Once the last layer of paint has dried, take off the balloon, and display!
For more pumpkin painting and other Halloween themed crafts, visit Good Housekeeping’s website.
Halloween & COVID Safety
As we’re getting into the Halloween spirit, we might be putting a costume together or planning a social event. We also need to think about how COVID-19 will impact our activities. The CDC does not recommend traditional trick-or-treating this year. But there are many ways to join in that are safer!
Instead of completely missing out on the fun, try a low-risk activity such as:
Carving pumpkins and decorating your living space
Having a Halloween movie night
Hosting a virtual costume contest with friends or family
You can also try a medium-risk activity, while practicing social distancing and wearing a protective mask, such as:
An outdoor costume party or parade with a small group
An outdoor haunted corn maze
Visiting a pumpkin patch or apple orchard (make sure to use hand sanitizer)
Costume masks are not a substitute for a face mask. However, costume masks should not be worn on top of a face covering as it might be dangerous. You might consider wearing a Halloween-themed cloth mask instead!
Of course, if yourself, or someone you live with has been sick, it’s best not to take part in any social events. For more information on safely participating in this fun holiday, visit the CDC’s website.
Upcoming Events
OHSU Friendships and Dating Class
The University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) is excited to announce that a new online class for adults 18 and over with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Want to learn more about healthy relationships and sexual health? Then sign up for this FREE class!
Friendships & Dating is to help people learn and practice skills so they can feel more comfortable making friends and dating. Class members will learn about:
· How to express feelings and recognize feelings in others
· How to talk to friends and people they want date
· Talking about boundaries and communication
· Healthy relationships and sexual health
When does the class start and end? October 12th, 2020 to December 16th, 2020.
When are the classes? Every Monday and Wednesday for 10 weeks.
What time are the classes? 4 PM - 5:30 PM Pacific Time
How do I sign up? You can complete the form here.
I have questions. Who do I contact? You can contact Erin Taylor at tayerin@ohsu.edu or Lindsay Sauve at sauv@ohsu.edu.
Newsletter: Friday, September 4th
Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week Sept 13-19
Governor Brown declared September 13-19 as DSP Recognition Week!
“It has been an incredible year for DSPs, highlighting more than ever their dedication, determination and compassion for people with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities. We are so proud to support your organizations who employ these wonderful people.” –Lois Gibson, Executive Director, Oregon Resource Association
CPI thanks all the Direct Support Professionals who work in a variety of settings in our field. DSP’s are people who work in group homes, in job settings and with people living in their own and family homes. Individuals supported by CPI may have a DSP if their support person works for a provider agency. DSP’s are the people many individuals count on to be there for them on a daily, weekly or as needed basis. We appreciate them always, and even more now, during COVID. Make sure to say thank you to your provider(s) today!
Take a look at ORA’s Twitter and Facebook accounts for more information on DSPs and what they do.
National Suicide Prevention Month
September is national suicide prevention month, and it comes at a time where we are all facing very unique challenges. If you or someone you know is having a tough time, there are ways to find and give support. We all need a little help sometimes, especially right now.
Visit NAMI (National Association of Mental Illness) to learn more about knowing the signs that someone is contemplating suicide.
The national suicide prevention lifeline offers 24/7, free and private support for you or your loved ones. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to speak with someone.
Medical Rights and Senate Bill 1606
Senate Bill 1606 was celebrated by our community when it passed with unanimous approval by Oregon Legislature in June! Why is this such BIG news?
Everyone has the right to medical treatment and the ability to make their own health care decisions. Senate Bill 1606, or SB1606, ensures that hospitals in Oregon respect these rights for individuals with disabilities.
This means:
Hospitals cannot deny medical treatment to anyone. Individuals with disabilities have the right to medical attention and care, just like anyone else.
Individuals are allowed up to three support persons with them in the hospital at all times.
If an individual is seriously ill and requires a life-sustaining treatment plan, a support person designated by the individual must be present for these medical decisions.
Hospitals are prohibited from directing individuals to complete a POLST, or Portable Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment. This is a document only used for people with serious illnesses in particular situations where the individual, their provider, and health care professional have discussed treatment. Read more about this form here.
Even with the approval of SB1606, it is important to prepare for communication with your health care professionals before an emergency takes place. This is especially relevant during the pandemic, when our community is more vulnerable to getting sick. Read this ODDS fact sheet on knowing your medical rights during COVID-19 and visit our emergency planning page for helpful tools to print and have at the ready in case of an unexpected hospital visit.
*If you are a provider or guardian, this guide can help navigate conversations about medical care with the individual you support.
Internet Safety During COVID-19
Understanding Scammers and Internet Fraud
Although the internet is a great tool for both work and play, we still need to be safe while using it. A “Scammer” or “Cyber Criminal” is someone who tries to steal your personal information or tries to trick you into sending them money using the internet. They may send emails or text messages including links to fraudulent websites. They may even call you pretending to be someone else, and will most likely be very persuasive. For more information on Cyber Crime, visit the USA.gov website.
Phishing
Phishing is a way for scammers to steal your personal information by using e-mail, text messages or fake websites. Their goal is to get debit card PINs, account passwords, credit card and banking information. Sometimes they may use threats, such as telling you they will disable an account or give you a fine. Real companies will never ask for your password or account number by e-mail, and would never use threats in this way.
How to Protect Yourself
Dos
Learn to recognize internet fraud
Contact the company if you’re not sure
Update your anti-virus and anti-spyware programs
Don’ts
Do not click any links or open any attachments in emails or text messages from unknown senders or numbers. This can be tricky as they may sometimes pretend to be someone or a business you know. If it seems out of place or unusual - don’t click it. Call the company or person instead.
Do not give out your personal information to anyone you do not 100% trust.
Contact Tracing and Possible Scams
It is important to also be aware of information that you give out over the phone. In our May 2020 newsletter, we talked all about contact tracing and why it is important. Talking to real contact tracers is important. Unfortunately, scammers have also picked up on this and may pretend to be a contact tracer to get your personal information. Below is some information to help you know if the person on the line is who they say they are.
A contact tracer’s job is to contact anyone who may have been in close contact with someone who is sick or was sick with the Coronavirus. This is very important during a pandemic, so we can slow the spread of the sickness and alert others who may have had contact with someone diagnosed with COVID 19. A contact tracer might call you to ask some personal questions, such as:
The county where you live
Your birthday
Your contact information
Your job
Your race, ethnicity or disability information
Whether you have any symptoms of COVID-19
A contact tracer will NEVER ask for your social insurance number, banking or credit card details. If you get a call from someone who claims to be a contact tracer asking for this information, hang up right away.
You can learn more about contact tracing by watching the CDC’s video all about it here.
Common Scams and Fraud During COVID
During the pandemic, scammers may use scare tactics and misinformation to take advantage of you. Protect yourself by not sharing personal, bank or credit card information on the phone, through e-mail or text message. There are some common scams you may see:
Information about “top secret” cures or vaccines
Guaranteed investments or financial help being offered (if it’s too good to be true, it probably is)
Fake Coronavirus maps sent as a link or e-mail attachment
Fake mobile banking apps
Health-care fraud (offers for free testing or health care)
Fake online companies offering low-cost hand sanitizer or masks
Pet adoption scams
Rental scams
Scammers posing as the IRS, SSA, OSHA or FDIC who may:
Ask you to pay back “excess” tax or stimulus check funds
Demanding money for a false fine
Threatening legal action if they are not paid
Another current scam that is going around is a text message saying that a package being delivered is being held and asks you to click on a link to find out more. This message sometimes even claims to be Fed Ex. Do not click the link and do not reply to the message. The best thing to do is to delete the message.
Remember, when in doubt, don’t click the link! Check the internet for popular scams, or better to call the actual company to find out if there really is an issue.
Complaints
If you think you have been a victim of fraud, you can file a complaint with the Department of Justice here. It is important to report these scams so the DOJ can track them and help keep us safe. Scammers can be very persuasive, so don’t feel embarrassed if you are tricked by them. We are all in this together!
Reliable News Sources and Media Bias
Finding Reliable News Sources
There are endless resources online, and many people are writing about Coronavirus right now. Remember, not everyone online is a qualified journalist. Be sure to read reliable websites to get your information. Websites such as the CDC, and Oregon.gov are the best and most reliable sources for COVID-19 related news and updates.
Make sure to read multiple sources for your everyday and world news as well – some publications may not be legitimate, or may not have the correct research backing them up. The most reliable and neutral world news sources are discussed here.
News and Media Bias
When someone is biased, it means that they are in favor of, or against, a thing, person or group (in an unfair way). We collect these biases from our families, friends and community over time.
Media bias is unfairly favoring one side in events or stories that are reported, instead of being neutral and simply reporting the facts. You can view a chart on media bias in the US which explains which publications are the most neutral.
The direction and degree of news and media bias in different countries can vary. In the 1950s in the United States, people usually got their news from a few respected television news channels, as well as their local publications or radio stations. Since social media and the internet came onto the scene in the late 1990s/early 2000s, this has largely changed. There are now many ways that we get our news. For more information on the decline of neutrality in the news media, watch PragerU’s video here.
DRO Voting Guide
Election Day is coming up soon – this is a very exciting time, but can also be confusing. Disability Rights Oregon has put together a handy voting guide to help people understand the contents of the larger voter’s guide! The guide can help you learn about ballot measures and what the candidates stand for. It will not tell you how to vote. The guide is available here to view online. You can order a copy for yourself by filling out their online form. The deadline to order your own copy is September 21, 2020. CPI will also have copies available soon in our office lobby. Contact your PA if you need help ordering or getting a guide!
Happy Voting!
CPI Spotlight of the Week
Patricia (Trish) Canlon
A sunset view from Trish’s new home in Norway
Trish has never had her own highlight in the newsletter, and she is leaving CPI after almost a year. Because of the Coronavirus and travel ban, she was not able to see her fiancé for 7 months as he is from Norway. She moved there as soon as she was permitted to!
Trish loves to travel and has friends and family all over the world. She is looking forward to having big celebrations with them when she can see them again! Before the pandemic, she lived with her brother and sister-in-law in Portland, and they had very busy schedules. She really enjoyed spending quality time with them when they were quarantined together, and it was especially meaningful since she left so quickly for Norway.
We are so sad to see Trish go, but we are excited for her to continue her adventures in Europe and hope she keeps in touch!
Along with Trish’s departure, I wanted to introduce myself (Liz Kuth) as the new Communications Manager and
Executive Coordinator at CPI. I’ll be writing your newsletter and updating you through Facebook and our blog! If you have any questions, concerns, suggestions or comments, please feel free to contact me directly at ekuth@communitypath.org. Looking forward to connecting with you!
Upcoming Events
As We Are: Disability Justice and Community Care Conference
Date: September 12 and September 13, 2020
Time: 11:00AM to 3:00PM PST
Place: Webinar, information to be shared closer to the conference date
Register: You can register here. If you are interested and need help registering, contact pdxdjcollective@gmail.com OR call 971-325-5434 (Rebel Black, one of the organizers, who will get back to you). The first 20 people with a disability to register will receive a gift package!
This conference is FREE. If you would like to donate to this organization, contact them at pdxdjcollective@gmail.com.
PHAME Event – One Community Virtual Breakfast
Date: September 16, 2020
Time: 8:00AM to 9:00AM PST
Place: Virtual event, details to be shared after registering
Register: You can register here for the event.
“PHAME’s One Community Breakfast is a virtual opportunity for business leaders to learn about the benefits of hiring people with developmental disabilities, and gain practical knowledge about how you can make it happen.”
Self-Advocates Taking Action Presents: BAM! (Build a Movement)
Register: To register (or if you have any questions), contact Glenna Hayes at UCP connections (Glenna.hayes@ucpconnections.org or 503-522-0409).
Meeting with Senator/Representative to be announced in the fall.
$20 gift certificate for self-advocates who attend the series!
Brainstorming Session
Date: Today! Friday, September 4th
Time: 11:00AM – 1:00PM
Place: Zoom Meeting, Meeting ID: 735 560 8520, no password
Identifying Key Issues
Date: Friday, September 18th
Time: 11:00AM – 1:00PM
Place: Zoom Meeting, Meeting ID: 735 560 8520, no password
How to Talk to Legislators
Date: Tuesday, September 22nd
Time: 2:30PM – 4:30PM
Place: Zoom Meeting, Meeting ID: 735 560 8520, no password
LABOR DAY CLOSURE
Community Pathways will be closed on Monday, September 7th for Labor Day. We will reopen at 9 AM on Tuesday, September 8th - maintaining our COVID-19 operations.
