This document summarizes the 2010 Day on the Lake event held at Bartlett Lake in Arizona. The annual event, sponsored by local hospitals, offers recreational activities like boating, fishing, kayaking, jet skiing, and skiing for people with disabilities. The author discusses their experiences participating in jet skiing, kayaking, and outrigger skiing. They note the safety precautions taken and changes made to allow people with disabilities to participate independently with assistance. The event provides an enjoyable outdoor experience in the heat and a welcome break from the high temperatures.

1. SYFNEWS
Summer
2010
V.3/I.3
in this
issue
Cover Story
The Americans with Disabilities Act:
Two Perspectives
1
Teresa Moore on Life Before and
After the ADA
3
Alicia Draper: Walking and
Dreaming with the ADA
4
Yakkit: An Online Community 2
Recreation/Leisure
A Day on the Lake 5
Announcing the 2010 ADE Transition
Conference
6
ADA Anniversary & July 4th
Celebrations
7
The Americans With Disabilities Act
(ADA) – Two Perspectives
By Brooke Brown and Jolene De Tiege
It was a tremendous accomplishment
and new beginning for all individuals
with disabilities, as well as for their
families and friends, when the
signing into law of the ADA
happened on July 26, 1990. The
ADA bans discrimination in
educational and work related
establishments. It protects the right
of people with disabilities to have equal
access to services, and allows access to
businesses, shopping, recreation, dining, travel, state and
local governments.
The ADA began long before it came into signing, and even
before it was introduced into Congress in 1988. It began with
the many individuals who helped to make the ADA possible.
They were individuals with and without disabilities who
fought and struggled for equality, and attempted to bring
people with disabilities into the mainstream of the American
economy. Some of these individuals are Justin Dart Jr., Judy
Heumann, Ed Roberts and Evan Kemp. All of whom were
or are strong advocates and activists for justice, civil rights,
empowerment, and the inclusion or integration of people with
disabilities within society.
When referring to the ADA, it is important that we remember
our history and the people who helped to make things possible
for us and much easier. Without them, we would be fighting
for more rights than we are today. Let us look to them as the
great leaders they are, and may we learn from their examples.
Thanks to many of these advocates, we are able to experience
a lot more than we would have years ago. Some of us know
what it was like before and after the ADA; and some of us
have lived only after the ADA and are fortunate enough to
experience the benefit of it. Below are interviews from two
individuals. Teresa Moore has experienced life before the ADA
was signed into law, and will share her experience with us of
what it was like before and after the ADA. Alicia Draper has
experienced life after the ADA and will share her experience
Americanswith DisabilitiesAct
July 26  ADA 20th
Anniversary
See page 7 for
information
on ADA
and July 4th
celebrations.
(continued page 3)

2. SYF NEWS│Summer 2010 — 2 —
YAKKIT: An Online Community of
People with Disabilities
By George Garcia
The rise in the use of the Internet has moved
humanity closer into truly becoming a global
society. With a few clicks of a mouse, or a few
keystrokes, one can access information and
communicate with anyone around the world.
Ideas and information can be shared at lightning
speeds. This, a far cry from the three months
it would take people, goods, and information
to cross the Atlantic Ocean at the time of the
founding of this nation.
A result in the increased use of the Internet
has been the development of social networking
sites, such as facebook and MySpace, in which
online communities have blossomed. Sharing
information and forming relationships with
anyone from around the world has now become
easier due to these communities. It is not rare
to find profiles of people who have made friends
from every corner of this world. It’s also not
difficult to realize that such websites may lead
to further tolerance and cultural awareness of
peoples we may have never known otherwise.
Advancement in technology has made this all
possible. However, for people with disabilities,
such advancements in technology play a double-
edged sword. On the one hand, technology has
led to an increase in independent living and
self determination. On the other hand however,
as technology advances, so do the capabilities
required to access such technology. As a result,
those with disabilities may not always have
access to an ever-growing online community.
What is needed, is an online community that
takes into account the needs of those with
disabilities. For three years the Southwest
Institute for Families and Children, a nonprofit
organization out of Scottsdale, Arizona, has been
in the process of developing a social networking
site designed with the needs of those with
disabilities in mind. This year, the Southwest
Institute proudly unveiled www.yakkit.org.
Like many other social networking sites,
YAKKIT allows users to create personalized
profiles in which they may be able to share photos
and videos, add friends, send out messages and
create blogs. What sets it apart from other
sites however, are the built-in accessibility
features that make the website user friendly and
accessible to almost everyone.
For people with certain types of disabilities,
typing may be rather difficult. For this reason,
when the user chooses to create a blog or send
out a message, the website will automatically
search for and access the user's webcam. Instead
of typing, users can now record a video and
posted it as their blog or send it to their friends
via a message. If the user does not own a webcam,
messages and blogs can still be typed. However,
for those with difficulty reading, the website
includes a feature that will read aloud any
message or blog just by clicking on an icon next
to the text.
Aside from unique accessibility features, the
website contains an area titled "Learn", in which
users have access to disability related video
content. Divided into categories such as "friends”,
"health", and "work", the "Learn" section provides
users a one-stop location to find the latest in
disability related video content.
To further promote the sense of community and
to increase communication among people with
disabilities, the website offers a "Talk" section in
which users may post text or video comments on
a variety of different issues. While talking about
"friends and dating" or "how's life going", users
can share information and get to know others
from around the world.
The key to a vibrant and healthy community
is communication. As people with disabilities,
we often live isolated lives in which interaction
with others may be a rare occurrence. Through
YAKKIT, people with disabilities are given the
tools to share information and to come together
as a community to form a strong and vibrant
voice that cannot be ignored.

3. SYF NEWS│Summer 2010— 3 —
Please tell us a little about your disability.
I have many medical labels. Beginning
with Cerebral Palsy and genetic conditions
like; migraines, seizures, asthma, digestive,
vision and hearing but the most disruptive
condition is arthritis because it has been
painful. Cerebral Palsy for me has cogni-
tive (understanding, learning and remem-
bering) and physical affects (like walking
and balance).
What do you do for a living?
I have my own business and currently work
with Southwest Institute for Families and
Children on the Yakkit.org web site. This
website is great for those who find reading
difficult. It is really fun to meet people,
learn about what’s important to people
with disabilities while learning how to use
a computer. Also, I volunteer for the Self
Advocacy Coalition, which helps groups all
over learn about self-advocacy and how it
can be live changing.
What is one experience/struggle you remember
most clearly prior to the passing of the ADA?
I was around before the ADA and attended
a Junior College to learn how to be a Medi-
cal Assistant. Well, turns out the doctors
all thought that it would be too hard for
me to work even with all of my experience.
They could not take their eyes off my legs.
In addition, part of the employment process
was to pass a typing test. After the ADA, I
was able to prove I am very good at given
a little time. Also they asked me if I could
drive and innocently I would say no. Now
with the ADA all I have to say is that I
have reliable transportation.
What were you involved in at the time of the ADA
signing?
When it was passed I was just getting in-
volved in Arizona Bridge to Independent
Living Center for writing classes. I told
them how hard it was for me to get a job
and that no one was giving me the chance
to show my capabilities. ABIL told me
about a new law and that it would assist
me in all areas of my life. I just wanted
to work like everyone else and so signed
up for the training that day.
What has been the most significant challenge
you’ve had in life so far that the ADA has helped
you overcome?
Now that I have taken a class, reviewed
the laws and talked about the employ-
ment and transportation section summa-
ries regularly with other self advocates, I
have learned how to answer those disabil-
ity related questions that push the law,
whether it is intentional or not. When we
use it, we become the teachers of the law.
That confidence is an amazing feeling. I
still don’t memorize detail but the ADA is
so right on with what I believe and know
is right in my heart.
In light of the ADA’s 20th anniversary, what has
been important to you this year?
I have spent some time this year using
You Tube videos and short articles to
learn about the other laws that we can
use with the ADA, like the Rehabilita-
tion Act section 504 and the Individuals
Education Act. There are others but that
would be mentioned if you browse the
Internet.
Is there anything specific you’re hoping to see in
new ADA developments?
I hope that we see the law is a tool, a guide
to change and grow with good results for
all people. For a while we were in the react
mode of the law. People were and still are
using the law to argue one legal ruling at a
Teresa Moore on Life Before and After the ADA
By Brooke Brown
(continued next page)
(ADA: Two Perspectives Introduction continued from page 1)

4. SYF NEWS│Summer 2010 — 4 —
time, violations of the law will cost you - there is
always a victim in the decision. When we learn
what used to work or be OK, hurts people, or no
longer works, admit it. “Need to break through a
barrier?” like attitudes, discrimination, accessibil-
ity, or transportation, start here and improve from
this point and any money spent is an investment
in people and that is what is most important. Un-
til my dream comes true people with disabilities
will continue to use this tool to teach all of us what
is useable, friendly and respectful.
(Teresa Moore on ADA continued from page 3)
What is your disability.
My disability is cerebral palsy.
What kinds of things are you involved in?
I am involved in Toastmasters (an Inter-
national Public Speaking Club), Camelot
Horsemanship, a horsemanship program
for kids and adults with disabilities and
I am a self- employed public speaker. My
speaking programs range from disability
awareness to self-motivation.
Are you familiar with the history of the ADA?
Yes, of course!
How do you feel about it being the 20th anniver-
sary?
I am beyond excited that it is the 20th
Anniversary of the ADA! Now it has been
20 years of more people with disabilities
achieving their dreams! Having acces-
sible buildings, programs and workforces
allows EVERYONE to display their abili-
ties. By putting their abilities first, one
can achieve their life purpose and having
a purpose is vital and powerful to one's
soul.
Do you have an experience to share in which the
ADA helped you overcome a challenge?
I have studied and traveled international
ly, around parts of Mexico and Italy with
the aid of a walker (or as I like to cal-
lit my chariot) and living in the United
States I have to say that I take acces-
sible sidewalk ramps for granted. These
ramps might seem like a small
thing, but to me they are vital to
my independence. Sidewalk ramps
help get everywhere from my next
business meeting to my dinner
dates.
How would it have changed without the ADA?
Without the ADA, I believe sidewalk ramps
would not be enforced in building construc-
tion; leaving independence for people with
mobility aids hard to obtain. Moreover
the ADA is more than a law that enforces
equality for people with disabilities it is
vital life concept. I believe the reason it is
called Americans with Disabilities Act is
because Americans with Disabilities are
people of ACTION and our stories are being
played out one "act" at a time, when one
goes out and just lives life.
What would you like to see in the future of the
ADA & disability rights/awareness?
I would like to see more accessible sand
playgrounds for kids and parents with
disabilities in community and city parks.
I believe every person needs a fun outlet!
Alicia Draper: Walking and Dreaming with the ADA
By Mykl Cook
Brooke Brown, Editor & Staff Writer
Mykl Cook, Staff Writer
Jay Dashefsky, Staff Writer
Jolene De Tiege, Staff Writer
Liliana Flores, Staff Writer
George Garcia, Staff Writer
John Carlos Garcia, Photographer
Katie Griffith, Staff Writer
Chris Smith, Staff Writer
SYF
NEWS
STAFF

5. SYF NEWS│Summer 2010— 5 —
Day On The Lake 2010
By Jay Dashefsky
The 14th annual Day On The Lake was
held at Bartlett Lake in Carefree, AZ on Friday,
June 4 and Saturday, June 5 from 8:30 AM to
2:30 PM. I participated on Saturday, and it was a
great experience. The event, sponsored by Barrow
Neurological Institute and St. Joseph's Hospital
and Medical Center, had enough activities to get
participants' minds off of the 100-plus degree
temperature. These events included scenic boat
rides, fishing, kayaking, jet skiing, mono skiing,
and outrigger skiing. They
also offered the option for
participants to purchase
lunch.
The events I
participated in were jet
skiing, outrigger skiing, and
kayaking. Before participants
could partake in any of
the events, they needed to
register and get fitted for a
life jacket. After participants
get their life jacket and put
it on, they then do a water
test. Staff members are
there with everyone as they
get assistance going into the
lake water. The objective
with the water test is to have
skiers hold their head under
the water for ten seconds;
first while prone (on one's
stomach) and then to flip over
to a supine position (on one's back). At first, the
water seemed cold, but it was a welcome change
from the sweltering heat! The heat is also why
sunscreen came in handy.
The second event I did was the kayaking,
which is great for one's arms! Two people go into the
kayak. I went with another staff member, but we
each had our own sets of paddles. This was relaxing,
even though it provided an excellent workout for
my arm muscles. After this, I rode the Jet Ski. A
year or two ago, they instituted a rule that if a
participantdoesnotdrive,he/shecannotoperatethe
Jet Ski steering/acceleration mechanism himself/
herself, and a
staff member
has to assist. I
remember a few years back that although the staff
member was with me on the Jet Ski, I was more
able to operate the Jet Ski with some assistance.
As I do not drive, I sat with two staff members on
the Jet Ski, one of whom operated the steering and
acceleration. I think this is a good safety measure,
but it may take away something from the overall
experience of operating the Jet Ski. Nonetheless,
safety is a top priority and rules are put in place
so that participants can enjoy themselves while
everyone is safe.
The last event I participated
in was outrigger skiing. The two
options for skiing they have are
outrigger and mono. The former
is where the skier sits in a device
similar to an inner tube (although
more secure) and is supported by
two skis to the sides, and one ski
underneath. The latter has only
one ski (the middle one underneath
the participant) available. The
mono is a lot more prone to
flipping completely, and as the
water was getting choppier as the
day progressed, the outrigger was
the safest option. However, it was
tremendous fun. The skiers go
with the crew on a pontoon boat
to the skiing location, towards the
middle of the lake. Then, the skier
is lowered into the water and the
crew (the staff) fastens the skier to the seat. After
the skier is fastened to the seat, the skier yells,
"hit it" when he/she is ready. The skier gives a
thumbs-up sign for the boat tugging the skier to
go faster, and a thumbs down to go slower. There
is a rope tugging the skier, and it comes between
the skier and the boat.
I highly recommend this event to anyone.
Whether you like outdoor activities, want to be on
the water, or just want to socialize, the Day on the
Lake is a great event that is sure to create lasting
memories for years.
recreation
leisure
Top photo: YAC-AZ Member Katie
Griffith (front). Bottom photo: YAC-AZ
Member Jay Dashebsky (middle).
Top photo: YAC-AZ Member Katie
Griffith (front). Bottom photo: YAC-AZ
Member Jay Dashebsky (middle).

6. SYF NEWS│Summer 2010 — 6 —
Announcing the 2010 ADE Transition
Conference
By Katie Griffith
Hey guys and girls! Remember how much fun we
had at last year at the Department of Education
Conference? Well, it’s that time of year again and
we hope you can join us. This year, the conference
will take place on Monday September 20, through
Wednesday September 22, 2010 at the new Talking
Stick Resort.
Please go to http://www.ade.state.az.us/ess/
SpecialProjects/transition/ to fill out a scholarship
form and register join us for a great time.
This year, the Youth Action Council of Arizona
has been asked to facilitate the youth strand of
the conference. Here is a sneak peak of one of
the breakout sessions presented by Dr. Hirsch.
It is titled Hey! Talk to Me. (The Doctor’s in
the House). In this session Dr. Hirsch will be
answering questions that us as young people want
to hear. So put on your thinking caps and come
with your questions! You don’t want to miss this!
The Improbable Theatre
Company (ITC) to Perform
at ADA Gala
By Brooke Brown and Jolene De
Tiege
ITC began in 1999, and was
founded by Kathy Tweet, Carolan
Quenneville and Diane Sullivan.
Through the Arizona Bridge to
Independent Living (ABIL), several
individuals would attend theatrical
and musical performances. These
individuals desired to become
more than spectators though,
and wanted to be involved and
perform themselves. This is how
ITC came into being, and it is now a troupe of
local performers, directors, writers and stage
managers. ITC performs yearly at the Herberger
Lunch Time Theater, and at different locations
and venues throughout the year.
In fact, ITC will be performing a special piece
from “Cause for Celebration,” honoring the
history of the ADA and Justin Dart Jr., at the
20th Anniversary Gala on July 24. The ADA Gala
will be held at the Tempe Mission Palms Hotel.
Individual tickets are $35 per person. Contact
Amina Kruck at aminak@abil.org for more
information.
ada
& july 4th
2010
Independence Day Celebration at
the DEC!!
Join us for a July 4th celebration with FUN,
FOOD, and FIREWORKS!!!
Date/Time
July 4, 2010
Festivities start at 6:30pm
Venue:
Disability Empowerment Center
5025 E. Washington, Phoenix
For more information:
Contact Lyne Peterson
602-296-0534 / lynep@abil.org
20th Anniversary of ADA Film Festival
The two-day ADA Film Festival will commemorate the
20th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act
by highlighting favorite films that reflect the intent and
progress of the disability rights movement.
information|
Dates/Times:
Thursday, July 15, 2010
2:00pm to 7:00pm
&
Friday, July 16, 2010
2:00pm to 8:00pm
Venue:
Disability Empowerment Center (DEC)
5025 E. Washington, Phoenix
Nina Mason Pulliam Conference Center - First Floor
Complete movie schedule celebrating the 20th
Anniversary of the ADA will be posted soon at http://azdac.
org/filmfestival. Contact David Carey at 602-443-0723 for
more information.