'Personal Growth' Mandate Passes Committee

To contact us Click HERE
By Kristina Torres
Atlanta Journal Constitution


A bill requiring "personal growth" activities for people who apply for food stamps in Georgia passed a Senate committee Monday, two days after the same committee approved drug tests for parents who seek welfare.

Changes to Senate Bill 312, however, could limit its reach. To get it passed, its sponsor, Sen. William Ligon, R-Brunswick, agreed that it could be implemented only once there was enough funding. Officials with the Department of Human Services have said they can't afford the program right now because of millions of dollars in state cuts to their budget.Ligon agreed to only pilot the program in five counties to be selected later. He had to add a host of exemptions, including for anyone who worked at least 30 hours a week, had a child under the age of 6, was a student enrolled at least part-time, was developmentally disabled or who received unemployment. He also dropped a proposal to require the same for parents who seek welfare.Activities mandated by SB 312 would include working toward a GED or high school diploma, receiving technical training, attending self-development classes or enrolling in adult literacy classes."If you are receiving a public benefit, you need to work to improve yourself," Ligon said.It passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on a party line 8-3 vote. Democrats dissented, saying it was unnecessary and hurt people who were already struggling.The committee also trimmed down the mandate Monday requiring drug tests for parents, removing Medicaid recipients from the bill. Senate Bill 292 would apply to applicants for the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. TANF provides temporary financial help to low-income families with children.The bill's sponsor, Sen. John Albers, R-Roswell, said it would save the state money and help addicts by identifying those who need assistance. Albers based the proposal on Florida's drug-testing law, which a federal judge has temporarily blocked. Albers said he felt he had properly addressed confidentiality concerns.

'Personal Growth' Mandate Passes Committee

To contact us Click HERE
By Kristina Torres
Atlanta Journal Constitution


A bill requiring "personal growth" activities for people who apply for food stamps in Georgia passed a Senate committee Monday, two days after the same committee approved drug tests for parents who seek welfare.

Changes to Senate Bill 312, however, could limit its reach. To get it passed, its sponsor, Sen. William Ligon, R-Brunswick, agreed that it could be implemented only once there was enough funding. Officials with the Department of Human Services have said they can't afford the program right now because of millions of dollars in state cuts to their budget.Ligon agreed to only pilot the program in five counties to be selected later. He had to add a host of exemptions, including for anyone who worked at least 30 hours a week, had a child under the age of 6, was a student enrolled at least part-time, was developmentally disabled or who received unemployment. He also dropped a proposal to require the same for parents who seek welfare.Activities mandated by SB 312 would include working toward a GED or high school diploma, receiving technical training, attending self-development classes or enrolling in adult literacy classes."If you are receiving a public benefit, you need to work to improve yourself," Ligon said.It passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on a party line 8-3 vote. Democrats dissented, saying it was unnecessary and hurt people who were already struggling.The committee also trimmed down the mandate Monday requiring drug tests for parents, removing Medicaid recipients from the bill. Senate Bill 292 would apply to applicants for the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. TANF provides temporary financial help to low-income families with children.The bill's sponsor, Sen. John Albers, R-Roswell, said it would save the state money and help addicts by identifying those who need assistance. Albers based the proposal on Florida's drug-testing law, which a federal judge has temporarily blocked. Albers said he felt he had properly addressed confidentiality concerns.

Georgia's Youth Receives a $323,392 Grant From Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia to Exercise Their Minds, Bodies and Souls

To contact us Click HERE
/PRNewswire/ -- As a part of its ongoing work to address childhood obesity and promote healthy lifestyles in Georgia, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGa) today announced a three-year, $323,392 grant from its corporate foundation to Boys &Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) which will support the organization's proven health and wellness program, Triple Play, at local Clubs throughout the state.

Created by BGCA in 2005 with founding sponsor Coca-Cola, Triple Play: A Game Plan for the Mind, Body and Soul encourages Club members to eat healthier (mind), become more physically active (body) and increase their ability to engage in healthy relationships (soul). To date, more than one million young people have participated in the program.

"We are truly committed to improving the lives of the people we serve and the health of our communities and Boys & Girls Clubs of America shares that commitment," said Morgan Kendrick, president, BCBSGa. "Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia is proud to support the Triple Play program because we know that if we give our kids a healthy start, they can hopefully avoid life-long health issues and spend their time achieving their dreams."

The Georgia-focused funds are part of a $5 million grant from the parent company's Foundation, which will support Triple Play programming in all 50 states and several Triple Play-related initiatives in 2011. These include an attempt to break a physical activity-related Guinness World Record and helping Club families get healthy through the second annual Triple Play Fit Family Challenge.

Boys & Girls Club of America estimates that the grant will benefit more than 1,620 youth throughout Georgia.

"Too many children are not eating smart and getting the proper amount of exercise," said Wayne Moss, senior director, Sports, Fitness & Recreation, BGCA. "Our Triple Play program directly addresses this issue by teaching kids fun ways to stay active, setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy habits."

Triple Play is proven to improve lifestyles and behaviors. A two year study of more than 2,000 children ages 9-14 showed that Triple Play succeeded in getting them to exercise more, eat healthier foods and feel better about themselves. The study found that Triple Play kids increased to 90 percent of the federally recommended amount of daily exercise, which is 60 minutes a day for children, while their peers outside the program decreased to 78 percent.

The grant is an important part of BCBSGa's commitment to addressing health disparities and improving public health throughout the state. Through its State Health Index – a compilation of public health measures – the health plan continually works to identify the issues most in need of attention and directs its charitable support and volunteer efforts toward improving health in those areas.

"The State Health Index truly guides and shapes our work throughout Georgia," said Robert McCormack, medical director for BCBSGa. "By tracking our progress year-over-year we are working to make sure that the programs we support and the fine work of our non-profit partners really is improving health."

"The short- and long-term dangers associated with childhood obesity bring special importance to our work with Boys & Girls Club of America. We are excited to partner with our local Clubs to help them to head off one of the country's most pressing health challenges," McCormack continued.

More information about the Triple Play program is available at www.bgca.org/tripleplay.

-----
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG @FayetteFP

Making ripples at The Children's Village

To contact us Click HERE
Earlier today I went to a lunch and took a tour at The Children's Village at Christian City. It wasn't the first time I've taken a tour and it won't be the last! I always drive away from a visit with my little brain furiously working trying to figure out how I can help.

As always I am awed by the dedication and caring of those who work at Christian City. It is inspiring to hear them talk about their mission to help kids. Every time I go out there I learn a little more and put those who donate, work, and volunteer on just a bit higher pedestal.

As the saying goes, these folks don't just talk the talk, they walk it. Their impact on the world is so much more than the proverbial pebble tossed in the lake. They throw boulders bigger than most of us could handle! They make some huge ripples.

Today I found out more about those who have donated to help at Christian City. Kool Aide donated a huge chunk to build a really nice playground for the children. Over 200 volunteers then got together and helped to prep and put the playground together.

Heritage Christian Church spent hours picking up rocks and sticks to clear the main area where the playground resides and someday a nice pavillion will rest.

Bob Adams Homes donated a lot to help build the first four cottages and admin offices. That's Phase 1. There are two more phases awaiting volunteers, donations and time.

Who else? There were so many mentioned today who have given so much. Some give $30 a month to support a child, others collect underwear and socks, some donate their time, some simply pray.

I wish I had a huge check book. I wish I had more time to raise money. I wish I could do more than just toss teeny-tiny little pebbles into the pond. However, I know that we all do what we can do and that if enough of us toss our little pebbles together we can make some huge ripples of our own!

They mentioned during the tour that if they could get 1500 people to donate $30 a month then the needs of the children would be covered. They're not quite half way to that goal. I figure that I can scrape up a dollar a day to help a local child in need. Shoot, I spend more than that on bottled water and drinks each day.

I'm going to think more on ways to help. Maybe I'll get a jar and start tossing change in it for the kids. I may not get to $30 each month, but it'll be something! Wouldn't it be cool to start a change for Christian City fund raiser? Hmmm... little ideas bubble and sometimes turn into something worth pursuing.

They need toilet paper, cleaning supplies, zip-lock bags, 13-gallon trash bags, body wash, toothpaste, peanut butter, boxed macaroni and cheese, individually wrapped snacks and drinks, kid type cereals... toothpaste, toothbrushes... pretty much anything that you need as you go about your daily life! I suppose that I could swing getting an extra on some of those things when I go grocery shopping. Ha, I bet if I cleaned out my closets I could find a ton of unopened things I thought I'd try and never used... somehow I don't think they'd appreciate some of the things I might find in my closets! I'll keep thinking.

Want to know more about The Children's Village? Christian City? www.christiancity.org. Call them (770-703-2636) and ask for a tour... they do more than help kids, they have many services to help all ages. They've been around since 1965 helping children, then expanding to help the elderly. I hope you'll take a minute to connect and maybe make a few ripples of your own! - jmd

Converse Unveils Basketball Courts at Atlanta's Historic Piedmont Park

To contact us Click HERE
/PRNewswire/ -- Today (April 21), CONVERSE Inc., unveils two new basketball courts at Piedmont Park in midtown Atlanta, Georgia, along with Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Atlanta City Council President Ceasar Mitchell and NBA legend Julius "Dr. J" Erving. The Converse basketball court donation, consisting of one full court and one half court, is part of Converse's commitment to fostering community involvement through basketball in the city of Atlanta.

Marked with the iconic Converse Star Chevron logo, the basketball courts will provide youth with the opportunity to play basketball in an area that has not had courts before. Before the court presentation, Converse will hold its Open Gym session with Atlanta youth. Converse Open Gym, founded in 2007, provides an opportunity for kids to play basketball in a free, safe and unrestricted environment in major metropolitan markets including Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Miami and Boston. Over 50,000 kids have been touched by this program nationally, 17,000 of which come from the city of Atlanta.

"Converse is thrilled to celebrate basketball and the donation of these courts with Piedmont Park Conservancy, as they continue to implement their Master Plan to enhance the park for future generations," said Geoff Cottrill, Chief Marketing Officer of Converse. "We have enjoyed working with the City of Atlanta over the past few years to help inspire children through the game of basketball, and are happy that basketball is now a part of this beautiful, historic park."

Since 2008, Converse has led and sponsored an array of community-based programs in the Metro-Atlanta area including, several Converse Open Gyms, and title sponsorship of The Health Education & Communication Center of Atlanta's (HECCA) HOOPATLANTA Bounce Back program. The Bounce Back program is a multi-tiered community program where Converse has donated over 5,000 basketballs to Atlanta's Parks and Recreation Department, Atlanta Public Schools, Gwinnett County Public Schools and Dekalb County Schools and supports scholarship programs in the Dekalb County School System and Gwinnett County Public School System.

"Physical activity and sports participation help foster the social skills that our youth need, so we are excited about the new basketball courts at Piedmont Park and the fitness pilot programs Converse will begin to lead soon at our Centers of Hope," said Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. "Converse was one of the first corporate supporters of the Centers of Hope campaign, and their contribution is one of the reasons why we were able to secure a portion of the funds needed to reopen our recreation centers."

This court donation is a result of a partnership with Piedmont Park Conservancy, The City of Atlanta's Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, and The Health Education & Communication Center of Atlanta (HECCA).

In addition to the Piedmont Park basketball courts' unveiling, Converse is the title sponsor of the HOOPATLANTA Classic, Georgia's largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament. The tournament takes place April 23rd at the Georgia World Congress Center and fuses physical activity, the best in creative basketball match-ups and entertainment to create a unique experience for all.

-----

Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG @FayetteFP

ReelAbilities ATL Atlanta's First-Ever Disabilities Film Festival Premiering in October 2011

To contact us Click HERE
Georgia Community Support and Solutions announces its first annual film festival October 1-6, 2011 at venues across metro Atlanta. This film festival will promote the appreciation and understanding of individuals living with different disabilities. Lynne M. and Howard I. Halpern will host and co-present the film festival, which will include ten films featuring or made by people with disabilities.

The ReelAbilities Film Festival was founded in New York and was designed to change the public's attitude toward people who have diverse disabilities. ReelAbilities ATL is continuing the success, by using the power of film to focus on people living with disabilities from across the globe. To meet the goal of building community through film, ReelAbilities ATL has already established partnerships with 23 Atlanta community organizations. After each screening, there will be discussions with actors, experts, and filmmakers exploring the awareness of disabilities.

The complete festival schedule will be available in late August. Tickets will go on sale by September 1st. For more information please contact Judy Marx at (404) 634-4222, ext 267 or by email at judycmarx@gmail.com or reelabilitiesatl@gacommunity.org 

Georgia's Youth Receives a $323,392 Grant From Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia to Exercise Their Minds, Bodies and Souls

To contact us Click HERE
/PRNewswire/ -- As a part of its ongoing work to address childhood obesity and promote healthy lifestyles in Georgia, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGa) today announced a three-year, $323,392 grant from its corporate foundation to Boys &Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) which will support the organization's proven health and wellness program, Triple Play, at local Clubs throughout the state.

Created by BGCA in 2005 with founding sponsor Coca-Cola, Triple Play: A Game Plan for the Mind, Body and Soul encourages Club members to eat healthier (mind), become more physically active (body) and increase their ability to engage in healthy relationships (soul). To date, more than one million young people have participated in the program.

"We are truly committed to improving the lives of the people we serve and the health of our communities and Boys & Girls Clubs of America shares that commitment," said Morgan Kendrick, president, BCBSGa. "Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia is proud to support the Triple Play program because we know that if we give our kids a healthy start, they can hopefully avoid life-long health issues and spend their time achieving their dreams."

The Georgia-focused funds are part of a $5 million grant from the parent company's Foundation, which will support Triple Play programming in all 50 states and several Triple Play-related initiatives in 2011. These include an attempt to break a physical activity-related Guinness World Record and helping Club families get healthy through the second annual Triple Play Fit Family Challenge.

Boys & Girls Club of America estimates that the grant will benefit more than 1,620 youth throughout Georgia.

"Too many children are not eating smart and getting the proper amount of exercise," said Wayne Moss, senior director, Sports, Fitness & Recreation, BGCA. "Our Triple Play program directly addresses this issue by teaching kids fun ways to stay active, setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy habits."

Triple Play is proven to improve lifestyles and behaviors. A two year study of more than 2,000 children ages 9-14 showed that Triple Play succeeded in getting them to exercise more, eat healthier foods and feel better about themselves. The study found that Triple Play kids increased to 90 percent of the federally recommended amount of daily exercise, which is 60 minutes a day for children, while their peers outside the program decreased to 78 percent.

The grant is an important part of BCBSGa's commitment to addressing health disparities and improving public health throughout the state. Through its State Health Index – a compilation of public health measures – the health plan continually works to identify the issues most in need of attention and directs its charitable support and volunteer efforts toward improving health in those areas.

"The State Health Index truly guides and shapes our work throughout Georgia," said Robert McCormack, medical director for BCBSGa. "By tracking our progress year-over-year we are working to make sure that the programs we support and the fine work of our non-profit partners really is improving health."

"The short- and long-term dangers associated with childhood obesity bring special importance to our work with Boys & Girls Club of America. We are excited to partner with our local Clubs to help them to head off one of the country's most pressing health challenges," McCormack continued.

More information about the Triple Play program is available at www.bgca.org/tripleplay.

-----
Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG @FayetteFP

Making ripples at The Children's Village

To contact us Click HERE
Earlier today I went to a lunch and took a tour at The Children's Village at Christian City. It wasn't the first time I've taken a tour and it won't be the last! I always drive away from a visit with my little brain furiously working trying to figure out how I can help.

As always I am awed by the dedication and caring of those who work at Christian City. It is inspiring to hear them talk about their mission to help kids. Every time I go out there I learn a little more and put those who donate, work, and volunteer on just a bit higher pedestal.

As the saying goes, these folks don't just talk the talk, they walk it. Their impact on the world is so much more than the proverbial pebble tossed in the lake. They throw boulders bigger than most of us could handle! They make some huge ripples.

Today I found out more about those who have donated to help at Christian City. Kool Aide donated a huge chunk to build a really nice playground for the children. Over 200 volunteers then got together and helped to prep and put the playground together.

Heritage Christian Church spent hours picking up rocks and sticks to clear the main area where the playground resides and someday a nice pavillion will rest.

Bob Adams Homes donated a lot to help build the first four cottages and admin offices. That's Phase 1. There are two more phases awaiting volunteers, donations and time.

Who else? There were so many mentioned today who have given so much. Some give $30 a month to support a child, others collect underwear and socks, some donate their time, some simply pray.

I wish I had a huge check book. I wish I had more time to raise money. I wish I could do more than just toss teeny-tiny little pebbles into the pond. However, I know that we all do what we can do and that if enough of us toss our little pebbles together we can make some huge ripples of our own!

They mentioned during the tour that if they could get 1500 people to donate $30 a month then the needs of the children would be covered. They're not quite half way to that goal. I figure that I can scrape up a dollar a day to help a local child in need. Shoot, I spend more than that on bottled water and drinks each day.

I'm going to think more on ways to help. Maybe I'll get a jar and start tossing change in it for the kids. I may not get to $30 each month, but it'll be something! Wouldn't it be cool to start a change for Christian City fund raiser? Hmmm... little ideas bubble and sometimes turn into something worth pursuing.

They need toilet paper, cleaning supplies, zip-lock bags, 13-gallon trash bags, body wash, toothpaste, peanut butter, boxed macaroni and cheese, individually wrapped snacks and drinks, kid type cereals... toothpaste, toothbrushes... pretty much anything that you need as you go about your daily life! I suppose that I could swing getting an extra on some of those things when I go grocery shopping. Ha, I bet if I cleaned out my closets I could find a ton of unopened things I thought I'd try and never used... somehow I don't think they'd appreciate some of the things I might find in my closets! I'll keep thinking.

Want to know more about The Children's Village? Christian City? www.christiancity.org. Call them (770-703-2636) and ask for a tour... they do more than help kids, they have many services to help all ages. They've been around since 1965 helping children, then expanding to help the elderly. I hope you'll take a minute to connect and maybe make a few ripples of your own! - jmd

Converse Unveils Basketball Courts at Atlanta's Historic Piedmont Park

To contact us Click HERE
/PRNewswire/ -- Today (April 21), CONVERSE Inc., unveils two new basketball courts at Piedmont Park in midtown Atlanta, Georgia, along with Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Atlanta City Council President Ceasar Mitchell and NBA legend Julius "Dr. J" Erving. The Converse basketball court donation, consisting of one full court and one half court, is part of Converse's commitment to fostering community involvement through basketball in the city of Atlanta.

Marked with the iconic Converse Star Chevron logo, the basketball courts will provide youth with the opportunity to play basketball in an area that has not had courts before. Before the court presentation, Converse will hold its Open Gym session with Atlanta youth. Converse Open Gym, founded in 2007, provides an opportunity for kids to play basketball in a free, safe and unrestricted environment in major metropolitan markets including Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Miami and Boston. Over 50,000 kids have been touched by this program nationally, 17,000 of which come from the city of Atlanta.

"Converse is thrilled to celebrate basketball and the donation of these courts with Piedmont Park Conservancy, as they continue to implement their Master Plan to enhance the park for future generations," said Geoff Cottrill, Chief Marketing Officer of Converse. "We have enjoyed working with the City of Atlanta over the past few years to help inspire children through the game of basketball, and are happy that basketball is now a part of this beautiful, historic park."

Since 2008, Converse has led and sponsored an array of community-based programs in the Metro-Atlanta area including, several Converse Open Gyms, and title sponsorship of The Health Education & Communication Center of Atlanta's (HECCA) HOOPATLANTA Bounce Back program. The Bounce Back program is a multi-tiered community program where Converse has donated over 5,000 basketballs to Atlanta's Parks and Recreation Department, Atlanta Public Schools, Gwinnett County Public Schools and Dekalb County Schools and supports scholarship programs in the Dekalb County School System and Gwinnett County Public School System.

"Physical activity and sports participation help foster the social skills that our youth need, so we are excited about the new basketball courts at Piedmont Park and the fitness pilot programs Converse will begin to lead soon at our Centers of Hope," said Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. "Converse was one of the first corporate supporters of the Centers of Hope campaign, and their contribution is one of the reasons why we were able to secure a portion of the funds needed to reopen our recreation centers."

This court donation is a result of a partnership with Piedmont Park Conservancy, The City of Atlanta's Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, and The Health Education & Communication Center of Atlanta (HECCA).

In addition to the Piedmont Park basketball courts' unveiling, Converse is the title sponsor of the HOOPATLANTA Classic, Georgia's largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament. The tournament takes place April 23rd at the Georgia World Congress Center and fuses physical activity, the best in creative basketball match-ups and entertainment to create a unique experience for all.

-----

Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG @FayetteFP

ReelAbilities ATL Atlanta's First-Ever Disabilities Film Festival Premiering in October 2011

To contact us Click HERE
Georgia Community Support and Solutions announces its first annual film festival October 1-6, 2011 at venues across metro Atlanta. This film festival will promote the appreciation and understanding of individuals living with different disabilities. Lynne M. and Howard I. Halpern will host and co-present the film festival, which will include ten films featuring or made by people with disabilities.

The ReelAbilities Film Festival was founded in New York and was designed to change the public's attitude toward people who have diverse disabilities. ReelAbilities ATL is continuing the success, by using the power of film to focus on people living with disabilities from across the globe. To meet the goal of building community through film, ReelAbilities ATL has already established partnerships with 23 Atlanta community organizations. After each screening, there will be discussions with actors, experts, and filmmakers exploring the awareness of disabilities.

The complete festival schedule will be available in late August. Tickets will go on sale by September 1st. For more information please contact Judy Marx at (404) 634-4222, ext 267 or by email at judycmarx@gmail.com or reelabilitiesatl@gacommunity.org 

'Personal Growth' Mandate Passes Committee

To contact us Click HERE
By Kristina Torres
Atlanta Journal Constitution


A bill requiring "personal growth" activities for people who apply for food stamps in Georgia passed a Senate committee Monday, two days after the same committee approved drug tests for parents who seek welfare.

Changes to Senate Bill 312, however, could limit its reach. To get it passed, its sponsor, Sen. William Ligon, R-Brunswick, agreed that it could be implemented only once there was enough funding. Officials with the Department of Human Services have said they can't afford the program right now because of millions of dollars in state cuts to their budget.Ligon agreed to only pilot the program in five counties to be selected later. He had to add a host of exemptions, including for anyone who worked at least 30 hours a week, had a child under the age of 6, was a student enrolled at least part-time, was developmentally disabled or who received unemployment. He also dropped a proposal to require the same for parents who seek welfare.Activities mandated by SB 312 would include working toward a GED or high school diploma, receiving technical training, attending self-development classes or enrolling in adult literacy classes."If you are receiving a public benefit, you need to work to improve yourself," Ligon said.It passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on a party line 8-3 vote. Democrats dissented, saying it was unnecessary and hurt people who were already struggling.The committee also trimmed down the mandate Monday requiring drug tests for parents, removing Medicaid recipients from the bill. Senate Bill 292 would apply to applicants for the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. TANF provides temporary financial help to low-income families with children.The bill's sponsor, Sen. John Albers, R-Roswell, said it would save the state money and help addicts by identifying those who need assistance. Albers based the proposal on Florida's drug-testing law, which a federal judge has temporarily blocked. Albers said he felt he had properly addressed confidentiality concerns.

Converse Unveils Basketball Courts at Atlanta's Historic Piedmont Park

To contact us Click HERE
/PRNewswire/ -- Today (April 21), CONVERSE Inc., unveils two new basketball courts at Piedmont Park in midtown Atlanta, Georgia, along with Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Atlanta City Council President Ceasar Mitchell and NBA legend Julius "Dr. J" Erving. The Converse basketball court donation, consisting of one full court and one half court, is part of Converse's commitment to fostering community involvement through basketball in the city of Atlanta.

Marked with the iconic Converse Star Chevron logo, the basketball courts will provide youth with the opportunity to play basketball in an area that has not had courts before. Before the court presentation, Converse will hold its Open Gym session with Atlanta youth. Converse Open Gym, founded in 2007, provides an opportunity for kids to play basketball in a free, safe and unrestricted environment in major metropolitan markets including Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Miami and Boston. Over 50,000 kids have been touched by this program nationally, 17,000 of which come from the city of Atlanta.

"Converse is thrilled to celebrate basketball and the donation of these courts with Piedmont Park Conservancy, as they continue to implement their Master Plan to enhance the park for future generations," said Geoff Cottrill, Chief Marketing Officer of Converse. "We have enjoyed working with the City of Atlanta over the past few years to help inspire children through the game of basketball, and are happy that basketball is now a part of this beautiful, historic park."

Since 2008, Converse has led and sponsored an array of community-based programs in the Metro-Atlanta area including, several Converse Open Gyms, and title sponsorship of The Health Education & Communication Center of Atlanta's (HECCA) HOOPATLANTA Bounce Back program. The Bounce Back program is a multi-tiered community program where Converse has donated over 5,000 basketballs to Atlanta's Parks and Recreation Department, Atlanta Public Schools, Gwinnett County Public Schools and Dekalb County Schools and supports scholarship programs in the Dekalb County School System and Gwinnett County Public School System.

"Physical activity and sports participation help foster the social skills that our youth need, so we are excited about the new basketball courts at Piedmont Park and the fitness pilot programs Converse will begin to lead soon at our Centers of Hope," said Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. "Converse was one of the first corporate supporters of the Centers of Hope campaign, and their contribution is one of the reasons why we were able to secure a portion of the funds needed to reopen our recreation centers."

This court donation is a result of a partnership with Piedmont Park Conservancy, The City of Atlanta's Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, and The Health Education & Communication Center of Atlanta (HECCA).

In addition to the Piedmont Park basketball courts' unveiling, Converse is the title sponsor of the HOOPATLANTA Classic, Georgia's largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament. The tournament takes place April 23rd at the Georgia World Congress Center and fuses physical activity, the best in creative basketball match-ups and entertainment to create a unique experience for all.

-----

Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG @FayetteFP

ReelAbilities ATL Atlanta's First-Ever Disabilities Film Festival Premiering in October 2011

To contact us Click HERE
Georgia Community Support and Solutions announces its first annual film festival October 1-6, 2011 at venues across metro Atlanta. This film festival will promote the appreciation and understanding of individuals living with different disabilities. Lynne M. and Howard I. Halpern will host and co-present the film festival, which will include ten films featuring or made by people with disabilities.

The ReelAbilities Film Festival was founded in New York and was designed to change the public's attitude toward people who have diverse disabilities. ReelAbilities ATL is continuing the success, by using the power of film to focus on people living with disabilities from across the globe. To meet the goal of building community through film, ReelAbilities ATL has already established partnerships with 23 Atlanta community organizations. After each screening, there will be discussions with actors, experts, and filmmakers exploring the awareness of disabilities.

The complete festival schedule will be available in late August. Tickets will go on sale by September 1st. For more information please contact Judy Marx at (404) 634-4222, ext 267 or by email at judycmarx@gmail.com or reelabilitiesatl@gacommunity.org 

2012 Partners in Policymaking

To contact us Click HERE
Partners in Policymaking is an innovative leadership training opportunity designed to involve and empower people with developmental disabilities, parents of young children with disabilities and other family members. People with developmental disabilities and parents of young children with developmental disabilities are the primary target groups of the Partners program (However, other family members are strongly urged to apply.)  Partners in Policymaking will primarily focus on two subjects: community building, and state-level advocacy.
The program seeks participants from varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds, different geographic regions of the state and various disabilities, as are persons not actively involved in existing advocacy efforts.

All About Developmental Disabilities will issue applications to interested individuals throughout the year. Thirty-five (35) persons will be selected to participate in the twentieth Partners class in Georgia. Scholarships for travel, childcare and personal assistance services needed for attendance at Partners sessions are available to all participants.
Partners will attend two weekend-long sessions (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). The first weekend will be held March 23^rd – 25^th, and the second weekend will be held April 20^th – 22^nd. Attendance is mandatory and all of the session’s dates will be announced prior to the deadline for applications. Both weekends will be held in Decatur, Georgia.
Advocates strengthen communities. The Partners program teaches the skills needed not only to affect change in individuals’ lives, but also for those people that walk behind. Graduates from Partners have gone on to serve their communities as: Regional Boards Chairperson, Director of the ADA Exchange, Organizers of parental support groups in local communities, members of state wide task forces, Coordinator of the Advocacy Alliance, coordinators and participants in many conferences related to issues of disability.
Partners will hear from subject matter experts on topics like the History of the Disability Movement, Building Accountability and Commitment, and Person Centered Planning during the first weekend. The second weekend will focus on state-level advocacy. Participants will understand the process of a bill becoming a law, the state budgeting process, and will meet with former legislators to help hone their advocacy skills.
The deadline to apply to the 2012 Partners in Policymaking course is February 1^st, 2012. To apply, click the link below.
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/VKDYVKF
For more information, please contact Ryan Johnson at rjohnson@aadd.org or 404-809-2927.

NOW & COMP Waiver Proposed Rates

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If you or a family member receive the NOW or COMP Medicaid Waivers, you might want to review the Proposed Rates on the DCH website. These were just posted at the end of last week. Please note that they have a period for public comment that begins on January 26^th at 1pm at the Department of Community Health, 2 Peachtree Street, Fifth Floor Board room, and  DCH will collect comments from citizens until February 2, 2012.
If you cannot attend in person, they ask that you submit comments to the Board of Community Health, Post Office Box 1966, Atlanta, Georgia 30303.Comments submitted will be available for review by the public at the Department of Community Health, Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., in Room 4053, 2 Peachtree Street, N.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30303.

'Personal Growth' Mandate Passes Committee

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By Kristina Torres
Atlanta Journal Constitution


A bill requiring "personal growth" activities for people who apply for food stamps in Georgia passed a Senate committee Monday, two days after the same committee approved drug tests for parents who seek welfare.

Changes to Senate Bill 312, however, could limit its reach. To get it passed, its sponsor, Sen. William Ligon, R-Brunswick, agreed that it could be implemented only once there was enough funding. Officials with the Department of Human Services have said they can't afford the program right now because of millions of dollars in state cuts to their budget.Ligon agreed to only pilot the program in five counties to be selected later. He had to add a host of exemptions, including for anyone who worked at least 30 hours a week, had a child under the age of 6, was a student enrolled at least part-time, was developmentally disabled or who received unemployment. He also dropped a proposal to require the same for parents who seek welfare.Activities mandated by SB 312 would include working toward a GED or high school diploma, receiving technical training, attending self-development classes or enrolling in adult literacy classes."If you are receiving a public benefit, you need to work to improve yourself," Ligon said.It passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on a party line 8-3 vote. Democrats dissented, saying it was unnecessary and hurt people who were already struggling.The committee also trimmed down the mandate Monday requiring drug tests for parents, removing Medicaid recipients from the bill. Senate Bill 292 would apply to applicants for the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. TANF provides temporary financial help to low-income families with children.The bill's sponsor, Sen. John Albers, R-Roswell, said it would save the state money and help addicts by identifying those who need assistance. Albers based the proposal on Florida's drug-testing law, which a federal judge has temporarily blocked. Albers said he felt he had properly addressed confidentiality concerns.

Conversations that Matter: College Park

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Just a friendly reminder that there is still time to RSVP for the Conversations that Matter: College Park! We have extended the RSVP to January 20^th, 2012.
Meet with advocates and community leaders for a dialogue about individuals with developmental disabilities and the justice system.
Discuss current programs and practices in Georgia and your community and identify community-based alternatives to incarceration.
Receive updates on the Georgia Crisis System for individuals with developmental disabilities.
January 26, 20126:30pm-8:30pm College Park
South Fulton Service Center5600 Stonewall Tell RoadCollege Park, GA 30049
To RSVP contact:
Yvette Pollardsfcuorg@gmail.com404-664-1393

Health Care Spikes Worry Georgia Lawmakers

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The Augusta ChronicleWalter C. Jones
ATLANTA -- Saving the trickiest problems for last, legislative budget writers wrapped up three days of hearings on state spending needs learning about looming gaps in healthcare resources.The House and Senate appropriations committees met jointly this week to get broad overviews of the money demands of the state’s largest agencies while the rest of the General Assembly was in recess. Monday, the House Appropriations Committee’s subcommittees will begin weeks of in-depth hearings to pore over the details of what Gov. Nathan Deal has recommended spending in each area.Deal asked every agency to cut 2 percent of its expenditures next year, but he’s also calling on legislators to make big boosts in health care. For the Department of Community Health, he wants $437 million added next year and for the balance of the current fiscal year to cover rising health costs and the growing enrollment in the insurance plans for state workers, teachers and the poor. That includes enrolling the children of 21,000 state employees in the PeachCare for Kids insurance plan for children from low-income families.Rep. Matt Dollar, R-Marietta, asked Community Health Commissioner David Cook about shaving costs by investigating bogus claims in the program for the poor, Medicaid.“There is fraud and abuse out there,” Cook said, adding that the department recently recovered $46 million and won nine convictions from 54 people charged with Medicaid fraud.“These are the bad guys. We need to ferret that out but not make it too onerous for the people who are providing legitimate services,” he said.More troubling is the ballooning costs in the coming decade due to federal health reform requirements, said Rep. Mickey Channell, R-Greensboro.He said the federal law will add 700,000 people to the state’s Medicaid roles, a 50 percent increase.“Not to mention where are we going to get the doctors to treat them, but where are we going to get the money?” he asked.Cook agreed the state’s seven-year cost could be $2.5 billion and then double over the following five years as federal funding for the expansion declines.“It’s a huge unknown,” he said.Another budget time bomb is the $62 billion in unfunded medical coverage for state retirees over the next 30 years, Cook said.Also coming before lawmakers Thursday were the heads of the Department of Human Services, seeking $15 million and the Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities requesting $30 million.

"Transportation and a More Livable Future"

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Watch “Transportation and a More Livable Future” on WPBA Atlanta, Sunday, Jan. 29 at 9:30 a.m.
“Transportation and a More Livable Future” is the latest installment of the Atlanta Regional Commission’s quarterly public affairs television show. The show features a look at how local governments, ARC and others are planning for an Atlanta region that is as vibrant and promising 30 years from now as it is today. Viewers can learn more about the upcoming Regional Transportation Referendum on July 31. Studio guests include ARC Board Chair Tad Leithead, Norcross Mayor Bucky Johnson and Henry County Commission Chair B.J. Mathis who look at transportation and other factors that will shape the future of metro Atlanta. The show airs this Sunday, January 29th at 9:30 am on Atlanta's WPBA Channel 30.



Promo for “Transportation and a More Livable Future” from Atlanta Regional Commission on Vimeo.

Report calls for expanded Georgia Medicaid managed care

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Atlanta Business ChronicleDave WilliamsA consultant is recommending Georgia enroll all of its Medicaid patients in managed care, including those now receiving traditional fee-for-service coverage.A report released Friday by the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) suggests that more than 357,000 Medicaid recipients enrolled in fee for service – primarily the aged, blind and disabled – join the 1.1 million being covered through managed care.The report, put together by Navigant Consulting, Inc. of Chicago, argues that aged, blind and disabled patients covered through fee-for-service plans don’t have access to care-management programs that provide chronic-care services they need more than most patient groups.At the same time, the report maintains that streamlining Georgia Medicaid to a single coverage delivery system would reduce administrative costs.“Now that the report has been delivered, we will begin our review and analysis … building on what is currently working and rebuilding what can be working better,” DCH Commissioner David Cook said.“During this evaluation process, we will identify opportunities to eliminate unnecessary and costly bureaucratic red tape, ease administrative burdens, enhance efficiencies and improve access and health care outcomes.”Navigant was awarded a $2 million contract last summer and spent the last several months of 2011 working on the report.

'Personal Growth' Mandate Passes Committee

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By Kristina Torres
Atlanta Journal Constitution


A bill requiring "personal growth" activities for people who apply for food stamps in Georgia passed a Senate committee Monday, two days after the same committee approved drug tests for parents who seek welfare.

Changes to Senate Bill 312, however, could limit its reach. To get it passed, its sponsor, Sen. William Ligon, R-Brunswick, agreed that it could be implemented only once there was enough funding. Officials with the Department of Human Services have said they can't afford the program right now because of millions of dollars in state cuts to their budget.Ligon agreed to only pilot the program in five counties to be selected later. He had to add a host of exemptions, including for anyone who worked at least 30 hours a week, had a child under the age of 6, was a student enrolled at least part-time, was developmentally disabled or who received unemployment. He also dropped a proposal to require the same for parents who seek welfare.Activities mandated by SB 312 would include working toward a GED or high school diploma, receiving technical training, attending self-development classes or enrolling in adult literacy classes."If you are receiving a public benefit, you need to work to improve yourself," Ligon said.It passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on a party line 8-3 vote. Democrats dissented, saying it was unnecessary and hurt people who were already struggling.The committee also trimmed down the mandate Monday requiring drug tests for parents, removing Medicaid recipients from the bill. Senate Bill 292 would apply to applicants for the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. TANF provides temporary financial help to low-income families with children.The bill's sponsor, Sen. John Albers, R-Roswell, said it would save the state money and help addicts by identifying those who need assistance. Albers based the proposal on Florida's drug-testing law, which a federal judge has temporarily blocked. Albers said he felt he had properly addressed confidentiality concerns.

'Personal Growth' Mandate Passes Committee

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By Kristina Torres
Atlanta Journal Constitution


A bill requiring "personal growth" activities for people who apply for food stamps in Georgia passed a Senate committee Monday, two days after the same committee approved drug tests for parents who seek welfare.

Changes to Senate Bill 312, however, could limit its reach. To get it passed, its sponsor, Sen. William Ligon, R-Brunswick, agreed that it could be implemented only once there was enough funding. Officials with the Department of Human Services have said they can't afford the program right now because of millions of dollars in state cuts to their budget.Ligon agreed to only pilot the program in five counties to be selected later. He had to add a host of exemptions, including for anyone who worked at least 30 hours a week, had a child under the age of 6, was a student enrolled at least part-time, was developmentally disabled or who received unemployment. He also dropped a proposal to require the same for parents who seek welfare.Activities mandated by SB 312 would include working toward a GED or high school diploma, receiving technical training, attending self-development classes or enrolling in adult literacy classes."If you are receiving a public benefit, you need to work to improve yourself," Ligon said.It passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on a party line 8-3 vote. Democrats dissented, saying it was unnecessary and hurt people who were already struggling.The committee also trimmed down the mandate Monday requiring drug tests for parents, removing Medicaid recipients from the bill. Senate Bill 292 would apply to applicants for the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. TANF provides temporary financial help to low-income families with children.The bill's sponsor, Sen. John Albers, R-Roswell, said it would save the state money and help addicts by identifying those who need assistance. Albers based the proposal on Florida's drug-testing law, which a federal judge has temporarily blocked. Albers said he felt he had properly addressed confidentiality concerns.

Georgia's Youth Receives a $323,392 Grant From Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia to Exercise Their Minds, Bodies and Souls

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/PRNewswire/ -- As a part of its ongoing work to address childhood obesity and promote healthy lifestyles in Georgia, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGa) today announced a three-year, $323,392 grant from its corporate foundation to Boys &Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) which will support the organization's proven health and wellness program, Triple Play, at local Clubs throughout the state.

Created by BGCA in 2005 with founding sponsor Coca-Cola, Triple Play: A Game Plan for the Mind, Body and Soul encourages Club members to eat healthier (mind), become more physically active (body) and increase their ability to engage in healthy relationships (soul). To date, more than one million young people have participated in the program.

"We are truly committed to improving the lives of the people we serve and the health of our communities and Boys & Girls Clubs of America shares that commitment," said Morgan Kendrick, president, BCBSGa. "Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia is proud to support the Triple Play program because we know that if we give our kids a healthy start, they can hopefully avoid life-long health issues and spend their time achieving their dreams."

The Georgia-focused funds are part of a $5 million grant from the parent company's Foundation, which will support Triple Play programming in all 50 states and several Triple Play-related initiatives in 2011. These include an attempt to break a physical activity-related Guinness World Record and helping Club families get healthy through the second annual Triple Play Fit Family Challenge.

Boys & Girls Club of America estimates that the grant will benefit more than 1,620 youth throughout Georgia.

"Too many children are not eating smart and getting the proper amount of exercise," said Wayne Moss, senior director, Sports, Fitness & Recreation, BGCA. "Our Triple Play program directly addresses this issue by teaching kids fun ways to stay active, setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy habits."

Triple Play is proven to improve lifestyles and behaviors. A two year study of more than 2,000 children ages 9-14 showed that Triple Play succeeded in getting them to exercise more, eat healthier foods and feel better about themselves. The study found that Triple Play kids increased to 90 percent of the federally recommended amount of daily exercise, which is 60 minutes a day for children, while their peers outside the program decreased to 78 percent.

The grant is an important part of BCBSGa's commitment to addressing health disparities and improving public health throughout the state. Through its State Health Index – a compilation of public health measures – the health plan continually works to identify the issues most in need of attention and directs its charitable support and volunteer efforts toward improving health in those areas.

"The State Health Index truly guides and shapes our work throughout Georgia," said Robert McCormack, medical director for BCBSGa. "By tracking our progress year-over-year we are working to make sure that the programs we support and the fine work of our non-profit partners really is improving health."

"The short- and long-term dangers associated with childhood obesity bring special importance to our work with Boys & Girls Club of America. We are excited to partner with our local Clubs to help them to head off one of the country's most pressing health challenges," McCormack continued.

More information about the Triple Play program is available at www.bgca.org/tripleplay.

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Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG @FayetteFP

Making ripples at The Children's Village

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Earlier today I went to a lunch and took a tour at The Children's Village at Christian City. It wasn't the first time I've taken a tour and it won't be the last! I always drive away from a visit with my little brain furiously working trying to figure out how I can help.

As always I am awed by the dedication and caring of those who work at Christian City. It is inspiring to hear them talk about their mission to help kids. Every time I go out there I learn a little more and put those who donate, work, and volunteer on just a bit higher pedestal.

As the saying goes, these folks don't just talk the talk, they walk it. Their impact on the world is so much more than the proverbial pebble tossed in the lake. They throw boulders bigger than most of us could handle! They make some huge ripples.

Today I found out more about those who have donated to help at Christian City. Kool Aide donated a huge chunk to build a really nice playground for the children. Over 200 volunteers then got together and helped to prep and put the playground together.

Heritage Christian Church spent hours picking up rocks and sticks to clear the main area where the playground resides and someday a nice pavillion will rest.

Bob Adams Homes donated a lot to help build the first four cottages and admin offices. That's Phase 1. There are two more phases awaiting volunteers, donations and time.

Who else? There were so many mentioned today who have given so much. Some give $30 a month to support a child, others collect underwear and socks, some donate their time, some simply pray.

I wish I had a huge check book. I wish I had more time to raise money. I wish I could do more than just toss teeny-tiny little pebbles into the pond. However, I know that we all do what we can do and that if enough of us toss our little pebbles together we can make some huge ripples of our own!

They mentioned during the tour that if they could get 1500 people to donate $30 a month then the needs of the children would be covered. They're not quite half way to that goal. I figure that I can scrape up a dollar a day to help a local child in need. Shoot, I spend more than that on bottled water and drinks each day.

I'm going to think more on ways to help. Maybe I'll get a jar and start tossing change in it for the kids. I may not get to $30 each month, but it'll be something! Wouldn't it be cool to start a change for Christian City fund raiser? Hmmm... little ideas bubble and sometimes turn into something worth pursuing.

They need toilet paper, cleaning supplies, zip-lock bags, 13-gallon trash bags, body wash, toothpaste, peanut butter, boxed macaroni and cheese, individually wrapped snacks and drinks, kid type cereals... toothpaste, toothbrushes... pretty much anything that you need as you go about your daily life! I suppose that I could swing getting an extra on some of those things when I go grocery shopping. Ha, I bet if I cleaned out my closets I could find a ton of unopened things I thought I'd try and never used... somehow I don't think they'd appreciate some of the things I might find in my closets! I'll keep thinking.

Want to know more about The Children's Village? Christian City? www.christiancity.org. Call them (770-703-2636) and ask for a tour... they do more than help kids, they have many services to help all ages. They've been around since 1965 helping children, then expanding to help the elderly. I hope you'll take a minute to connect and maybe make a few ripples of your own! - jmd

Converse Unveils Basketball Courts at Atlanta's Historic Piedmont Park

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/PRNewswire/ -- Today (April 21), CONVERSE Inc., unveils two new basketball courts at Piedmont Park in midtown Atlanta, Georgia, along with Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Atlanta City Council President Ceasar Mitchell and NBA legend Julius "Dr. J" Erving. The Converse basketball court donation, consisting of one full court and one half court, is part of Converse's commitment to fostering community involvement through basketball in the city of Atlanta.

Marked with the iconic Converse Star Chevron logo, the basketball courts will provide youth with the opportunity to play basketball in an area that has not had courts before. Before the court presentation, Converse will hold its Open Gym session with Atlanta youth. Converse Open Gym, founded in 2007, provides an opportunity for kids to play basketball in a free, safe and unrestricted environment in major metropolitan markets including Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Miami and Boston. Over 50,000 kids have been touched by this program nationally, 17,000 of which come from the city of Atlanta.

"Converse is thrilled to celebrate basketball and the donation of these courts with Piedmont Park Conservancy, as they continue to implement their Master Plan to enhance the park for future generations," said Geoff Cottrill, Chief Marketing Officer of Converse. "We have enjoyed working with the City of Atlanta over the past few years to help inspire children through the game of basketball, and are happy that basketball is now a part of this beautiful, historic park."

Since 2008, Converse has led and sponsored an array of community-based programs in the Metro-Atlanta area including, several Converse Open Gyms, and title sponsorship of The Health Education & Communication Center of Atlanta's (HECCA) HOOPATLANTA Bounce Back program. The Bounce Back program is a multi-tiered community program where Converse has donated over 5,000 basketballs to Atlanta's Parks and Recreation Department, Atlanta Public Schools, Gwinnett County Public Schools and Dekalb County Schools and supports scholarship programs in the Dekalb County School System and Gwinnett County Public School System.

"Physical activity and sports participation help foster the social skills that our youth need, so we are excited about the new basketball courts at Piedmont Park and the fitness pilot programs Converse will begin to lead soon at our Centers of Hope," said Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. "Converse was one of the first corporate supporters of the Centers of Hope campaign, and their contribution is one of the reasons why we were able to secure a portion of the funds needed to reopen our recreation centers."

This court donation is a result of a partnership with Piedmont Park Conservancy, The City of Atlanta's Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, and The Health Education & Communication Center of Atlanta (HECCA).

In addition to the Piedmont Park basketball courts' unveiling, Converse is the title sponsor of the HOOPATLANTA Classic, Georgia's largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament. The tournament takes place April 23rd at the Georgia World Congress Center and fuses physical activity, the best in creative basketball match-ups and entertainment to create a unique experience for all.

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Community News You Can Use
Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG @FayetteFP

ReelAbilities ATL Atlanta's First-Ever Disabilities Film Festival Premiering in October 2011

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Georgia Community Support and Solutions announces its first annual film festival October 1-6, 2011 at venues across metro Atlanta. This film festival will promote the appreciation and understanding of individuals living with different disabilities. Lynne M. and Howard I. Halpern will host and co-present the film festival, which will include ten films featuring or made by people with disabilities.

The ReelAbilities Film Festival was founded in New York and was designed to change the public's attitude toward people who have diverse disabilities. ReelAbilities ATL is continuing the success, by using the power of film to focus on people living with disabilities from across the globe. To meet the goal of building community through film, ReelAbilities ATL has already established partnerships with 23 Atlanta community organizations. After each screening, there will be discussions with actors, experts, and filmmakers exploring the awareness of disabilities.

The complete festival schedule will be available in late August. Tickets will go on sale by September 1st. For more information please contact Judy Marx at (404) 634-4222, ext 267 or by email at judycmarx@gmail.com or reelabilitiesatl@gacommunity.org 

Provider Pay Cuts Provoke Fierce Opposition

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Georgia Health News


Andy Miller


Pat Ellis held hands with her son John while waiting to get into an already packed state board room Thursday.The Ellises traveled from Commerce to Atlanta to attend a hearing that focused on proposed state cuts in payments for certain residential and day programs for the developmentally disabled.John Ellis, 39, who has Down syndrome, has been going to Jackson Creative, a service center for people with disabilities, for 18 years. Four to five days a week, John does activities ranging from community volunteer work, including folding church bulletins, to attending music therapy at the University of Georgia.“If the rates are reduced, [John’s] days will be cut down, and the quality of services will be cut down,’’ Pat Ellis said. “It’s such an important part of his day.’’The Ellises were part of a huge crowd of people with disabilities, family members, consumer advocates and service providers who attended the three-hour hearing. The atmosphere at the event was often emotional.The proposed rate changes are being considered by the board of the Department of Community Health, which runs Medicaid in the state.The revisions were proposed after the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services required Georgia to review its rates under ‘‘waiver’’ services for thousands of people with developmental disabilities.The new rate schedule was determined by a consulting firm that surveyed providers. State officials at the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) said most rates will actually be increasing, not decreasing.Program providers have been involved throughout the process, said DBHDD spokesman Tom Wilson on Friday.“No one is questioning the value of the services to the individuals receiving them,’’ Wilson said. “What’s at question is how much the people of Georgia should be expected to pay for them.’’ In some cases, he said, providers were spending 70 cents or less of each dollar on direct care.The overflow crowd Thursday uniformly urged the state not to rush to change the rates. They called for either maintaining the current pay structure or taking more time to study the proposed changes. Many in the crowd wore stickers with “New Rate Models’’ crossed out.Betty Peeples of Cartersville told state officials that her daughter Angela, 34, has benefited greatly from attending a day program for people with disabilities.“I do not see [the pay reductions] as being good for anyone,’’ Peeples said. The cuts will affect jobs – both at service centers and for parents who will no longer be able to work, she said.

‘Do no harm’

Tojuan Hawkins, 36, who has autism, told the public hearing that his Lawrenceville day program allows him to have a job stringing and bundling shoelaces. He also does ceramics and artwork at Creative Enterprises, a training and employment program. “I don’t want anything to jeopardize my job,’’ he said.Leigh McIntosh, executive director at Creative Enterprises, told GHN that the changes ‘‘could potentially put us out of business.’’Elsewhere on Thursday, DBHDD Commissioner Frank Shelp told state lawmakers that the Community Health board would not take up the rate changes until March, instead of February as previously planned.If the changes are approved, said DBHDD spokesman Wilson on Friday, they probably will not be implemented for more than a year.Meanwhile, a bill has been introduced in the Georgia House that would require legislative approval for provider rate changes.All About Developmental Disabilities, an advocacy group and services provider, said in a statement that it is ‘‘concerned with the overall instability to the provider community that any immediate changes to rates might cause. . . . More cuts to an already overburdened and under-resourced service system would pose concern for both individuals and family members and their ability to keep much-needed services.’’Some developmentally disabled Georgians live in ‘‘host homes,’’ which for them are essentially what foster homes are for minors. This program is targeted for a rate cut.Ryan Whitmire of Lutheran Services of Georgia, which provides host homes, told the Thursday hearing that the proposed reduction would cost his nonprofit $80,000. “It’s a huge hit,’’ he said.Diane Wilush, president of the Service Providers Association for Developmental Disabilities, told state officials that program providers have not seen a rate increase in eight years.“The underlying principle should be ‘Do no harm,’ ’’ she said.Wilush urged state officials to ‘‘go back to the table, include providers and families . . . and properly support quality.’’Bill Hogan said his 56-year-old son benefits from services from the DeKalb Community Service Board.“Without these, he would not be able to live and work as he does,’’ Hogan told the hearing. If proposed rates go through, he said, “providers will have to discontinue services,’’ which he said would be ‘‘catastrophic’’ to people like his son.