| From the CEO
Well, Ted Lasso has come to an end (the BEST series in the history of television) and my interest in soccer, albeit fleeting, is being filled with the Women’s World Cup in New Zealand/Australia.
As I write this, USA has just tied with Netherlands, who they beat to win the World Cup previously. Thus, my column this month is inspired by Carson Pickett. This 29-year-old footballer (the other football) is the first soccer player with a limb difference to play for the US Women’s National Team. If you have missed the phenom, Carson was born without her left forearm and hand. Her “high five” to a toddler in the stands with a similar limb difference recently became a viral sensation.
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Transition to School
by: Joni Schmalzried
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When I first started writing articles for our newsletter, I wrote one on transition – specifically about transitioning from K-12 school to the adult world. The word transition, however, applies to any change or shift from one thing to another. The transition I have been learning more about lately is the transition into school, be it a new grade, a new building, or a new community. As I have seen the worries about a new place through the eyes of my granddaughter (O.K. – my worries too), I have reflected on the added stress that a child (and their care givers) with a disability may face.
How can adults (caregivers and school staff) support the anxieties of a student experiencing transition? If you have recently sent your loved one to school for the first time, back to school, or are transitioning into special education services, here are some things to think about. If you are the educator receiving this precious package, these are good reminders well.
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Taste of the Arts Returns August 26
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Taste of the Arts is an annual festival hosted by Arts United on the arts campus in downtown Fort Wayne. Beloved by many, this free event brings the community together to celebrate the abundance of arts and culture in Northeast Indiana. The festival features twelve stages with over 80 performers, live painting, Artlink art market, local restaurants selling some of the best food in the region, kid’s activities, and more!
Last year, Arts United approached us for funding to increase disability inclusion at Taste of the Arts. They’ve continued to add ideas this year as well. Here are some inclusive things to look forward to, whether you have a disability or not.
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Shuttles: Because the festival is spread out between the arts campus, Rousseau Plaza, The Landing, and Promenade Park, getting around would be cumbersome for those with limited mobility. These CTN shuttles will make it easier. With six shuttle stops, distance should not be a barrier for you to enjoy all the festival has to offer.
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Sensory Notices: With a variety of performers throughout the day, some stages may get a little overwhelming for those with sensory sensitivities. The stage schedule and signage near the stage have icons indicating if a performance will be of higher volume.
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Quiet Space & Headphones: Speaking of sensory sensitivities, accommodations have been made for those who may at some point find the festival overwhelming. A quiet space is marked on the map where you can go to get away from the crowd and overstimulation. You may also check-out noise reducing headphones at the information booth if you need them at any point in the day.
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Performers with Disabilities: Eight performers/groups will take the stage at Taste of the Arts. They are noted on the schedule as “AWS Foundation Sponsored Performer” if you want to make a point to support them.
While these above features go beyond basic accessibility, you can also count on the standard features such as ADA restrooms and parking and ASL interpreters. Taste of the Arts is a festival for everyone. We hope to see you there this Saturday!
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Gilmore Inclusive Arts Grant
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The Gilmore Inclusive Arts Grant awards up to $25,000 to one applicant each year to support special projects focused on including people with disabilities in the local arts communities of Northeast Indiana. The application is currently open and closes September 29. For more information, go to our website.
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Our facility was built with universal design principles, with the idea that we can provide meeting space for all. We hope you find our rooms inclusive to all needs. Request one of our rooms on our website.
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