PHA News: General Meeting Coming Up Jan. 10 - and New Gazette Available

The next general membership meeting of the Parent Hospital Association is coming up on Saturday, January 10th, from 10 a.m. to noon, in Wagner at Sonoma Developmental Center. There will be a presentation about the community placement plan, and at least one regional center will be in attendance.

Note the new meeting location! We've switched from McDougall Hall to Wagner because McDougall is being closed. See this post for a map to the new location.

Also, the latest issue of The Eldridge Gazette -- the PHA newsletter -- is available. If you're on the mailing list, you might already have received your copy. You can also download a copy here or from the Resources page of the website.

* * Happy New Year to All Our Friends and Supporters * *

Valley Oak #4 by Philip Bouchard on flicker.com
(Creative Commons License)

PHA Meeting Location Changes in the New Year

Some housekeeping and maintenance issues at Sonoma Developmental Center have resulted in the closing of McDougall Hall -- where the Parent Hospital Association holds its regular General Membership meetings. Therefore, beginning with the January 10, 2015 meeting, the location of the PHA membership meeting will switch to Wagner.

Even if you're not familiar with Wagner, it should be relatively simple to locate. Follow Sonoma, the main road across the front of the Old Administration Building, north to the other end from where McDougall is situated. Turn left where Sonoma T's with Laurel and Wagner will be on your right. (see map below)

Beginning January 2015, PHA membership meetings will be held in Wagner, on the SDC campus.
See building on right marked "PHA" in blue. The previous meeting location was McDougall (left).

We hope to see many of you in January -- and many more at our annual Legislative Meeting on March 14, 2015. If you forget the new meeting room location or have difficulty finding Wagner, there will be reminders posted on site to assist.

And thanks to SDC administrators for offering a choice of alternatives and assisting with the change-over!

National Disability Advocate to Speak on History and Future of Deinstitutionalization

Tamie Hopp from VOR

Tamie Hopp, a national advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will speak on the history and future of deinstitutionalization at the Parent Hospital Association (PHA) meeting at Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC) in Eldridge on Saturday, November 8, beginning at 10:00 a.m. PHA general membership meetings are held in McDougall Hall and are open to the interested public.

Hopp is the Director of Government Relations and Advocacy for VOR, a national nonprofit organization that advocates for high quality care and human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She has been involved in disability advocacy for 19 years.

SDC is a state-operated home for 430 of some of California’s most profound disabled citizens. According to the state’s website, approximately one thousand acres of land, lakes, and various structures encompass the Sonoma Developmental Center campus, including a residential campground, store/cafeteria, post office, petting farm, sports fields, swimming pool, plant nursery, and picnic areas.

Homes like Sonoma are threatened across the country, says Hopp.

“Deinstitutionalization – the closure of specialized homes like Sonoma - has been pursued in earnest for decades,” said Hopp. “While early efforts were well-placed, helping thousands of inappropriately placed individuals secure more appropriate housing and services, the pendulum has continued to swing, placing very fragile people at grave risk.”

Hopp will provide an overview of the history of deinstitutionalization, its status currently, and what role family advocates can play in the future of their loved ones’ care.

“There is no silver bullet to stop closings,” said Hopp. “I would be doing families a disservice if I promised success. However, what I can tell them is that states cannot, legally or morally, stop providing necessary services to eligible citizens. Federal law clearly recognizes the right to individual and family choice according to need.”

Proponents of closure argue that people with developmental disabilities are always served better in small settings. VOR’s members see things differently.

“Tragedies following forced deinstitutionalization are widespread and well-documented,” said Hopp. “Without question, deinstitutionalization has failed many people.”

“For 31 years, VOR has advocated that families are the most effective voice for their disabled loved ones,” Hopp said. “They know best. It is critical that families be on the frontlines educating legislators and state officials about the unparalleled, comprehensive and highly specialized care their loved ones receive.”

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About VOR: VOR is a national organization that advocates for high quality care and human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Standing up for long-term care facilities and community disability programs, VOR is dedicated to maintaining individual family choice for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more information about VOR, including information about our programs and a press kit, please visit http://vor.net/about-vor.

PHA News: General Meeting This Saturday, Nov. 8 - and New Gazette Available

Fall Leaves by VancityAllie on flickr
(Creative Commons license)

The next general membership meeting of the Parent Hospital Association is coming up this Saturday, November 8th, from 10 a.m. to noon, in McDougall Hall at Sonoma Developmental Center. The guest speaker will be Tamie Hopp, who is part of VOR, the organization that is made up of families and others who support state-run facilities like our own Sonoma Developmental Center. She will give a national perspective and share the latest on the new CMS regulations and how they affect us.

Also, as most of you are aware there is another Task Force called by Secretary Dooley. The focus of this Task Force is on community services. Information will be shared about how the work of the latest Task Force impacts Sonoma Developmental Center -- there is much work to be done in order to protect SDC residents.

Please plan to join us on Saturday!

And...if you have not yet seen a copy, the latest issue of The Eldridge Gazette is available for download (pdf file).

PHA Member Updates: Latest Gazette and Upcoming Meeting

A new issue of The Eldridge Gazette is now available. If you are on the snail mail or email list you have already received your copy. If not, you can download a copy here: July/August 2014 Gazette. Many back issues are also available for download. Check the Resources page here on the blog or on the main Parent Hospital Association web site.

The next General Membership Meeting is coming up on Saturday, September 13, 2014. As always we will meet from 10 a.m. to noon, in McDougall Hall on the SDC campus. This month's agenda includes a presentation from the administration on the latest results and developments from the survey. We will also get a report on the responses received so far from the Friends and Family SDC Questionnaire. If you're unable to attend, watch for the next Gazette -- minutes from the meeting will be included.

Welcome back from summer everyone! Doesn't it seem like fall already?

Hands, by Bunches and Bits {Karina}
(Creative Commons License)

Latest PHA Newsletter Available - No General Meeting in July

Summer by Matteo Angelino on flickr.com
(Creative Commons license)

It's officially summer and, after a very busy start to the year for California's developmental centers, PHA has decided to call recess in July. It's time to take a short breather, enjoy the season and our friends and families, and recoup for what will probably be an equally intense close-out of the year.

So...no general membership meeting in July. The next meeting will be 10 a.m., Saturday, September 13th, in McDougall Hall on the SDC campus. More details about the meeting will be posted here on the blog as they become available.

Print copies of the latest Eldridge Gazette will start arriving in mailboxes next week for those members on the snail-mail list. Email newsletters will arrive a bit sooner. If you're not in the mood to wait for either, you can download a copy now: May/June 2014 Eldridge Gazette. Links to this edition and many back issues can also be found on the Resources Page of the main website or by clicking on the Resource tab at the top of this page.

Happy Summer everyone -- and we hope to see you in September!

PHA and Our Coalition Partners Team Up for Impact100 Sonoma Grant

Update (6/23/14): Congratulations to the Redwood Empire Food Bank for being awarded this year's Impact Grant. (We hear the vote was very tight!) All finalists received funds towards their projects - thank you to Impact100 Sonoma.

Last week Impact100 Sonoma announced three finalists for their annual $100,000 Impact Grant, along with 15 finalists for Community Grants. The organization will award its annual Impact Grant this coming Saturday, on June 21, when its members meet at Hannah Boys Center.

Parent Hospital Association is excited and honored to announce that we are one of the three finalists, along with our Coalition partners Sonoma Land Trust and the Sonoma Ecology Center, for the Impact Grant. We have requested support for a grassroots planning process engaging the Sonoma Valley community and all stakeholders in developing a “blueprint” for the future use of Sonoma Development Center (SDC) and its surrounding 900 acre property.

The other two finalists are the Redwood Empire Food Bank and the Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance. You can read more about the proposals up for consideration this Saturday at: The 2014 finalists have been chosen! on the Impact100 Sonoma web site.

Congratulations and best of luck to all of the finalists. Let's all keep working to create a healthier, happier, and inclusive Sonoma Valley.

Still Time to Complete Your SDC Family and Friends Questionnaire

The last issue of the Parent Hospital Association (PHA) newsletter included an important questionnaire designed and circulated by the PHA board to collect information that will help smooth the changes ahead for residents of Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC).

Many completed questionnaires have been received but we would like to double the number to make the information most useful. Have you completed your questionnaire?

If you've already recycled your copy of the Gazette -- or misplaced the questionnaire in a pile of to-do papers -- do not despair. It will be included in the next issue of the Gazette, and...you can also download a copy here and now: SDC Family and Friends Questionnaire (now in a handy 2-page version).

Thank you for your participation!

photo by trontnort on flickr

Latest PHA newsletter includes important questionnaire for SDC friends and families

By now Parent Hospital Association (PHA) members have probably received their copy of the latest Eldridge Gazette. Our March/April issue, which includes a full report of the Annual Legislative Meeting, is just out.

This issue also includes a questionnaire being circulated by the PHA board to Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC) friends and family. The questionnaire is designed to solicit valuable feedback and insight on what is most important for Center clients and their advocates and conservators. The board encourages everyone to take the time to complete the questionnaire and return it to PHA.

If you don't have your copy of the Gazette, or would like another copy of the questionnaire, use the links below to access additional copies.

The Eldridge Gazette, March/April 2014 issue
SDC Friends and Family Questionnaire

Hope to see everyone at our next General Membership Meeting, coming up on Saturday, May 10th -- as always, from 10 a.m. to noon, in McDougall Hall on the SDC campus.

McDougall Hall is at the corner of Sonoma and Wilson, on the SDC campus
(blue building on the map).

A message to Parent Hospital Association (PHA) members from PHA President Kathleen Miller…

Dear Sonoma families and friends,

Please take the time to read the attached Sonoma Developmental Center Service Plan. The PHA Board has voted to support the plan and post it on the website for your review. Please know that the changes that are coming, the implementation of the task force recommendations, are not our first choice. Like you we would rather that SDC services remain as a safe haven for all of our residents. We do know however that changes are already being implemented for some as regional centers step up efforts to force SDC residents into alternative placements. This plan is our attempt to provide some safeguards for our beloved residents as they face the changes ahead. Remember -- the task force recommendations are the blueprint for change!

You will note that there is a family questionnaire included in the upcoming issue of the Gazette. Please take a moment to complete it and return it. It is your chance to give voice to your choices and concerns.

As always I welcome your thoughts and input. Lets continue to work together to make a better and safer future for all of our SDC residents! Thank you for your continued support.

[Click the link below to continue to the Services Plan.]

PHA Spring 2014 Updates

Mark your calendars now for the next Parent Hospital Association General Membership meeting, coming up on Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to noon, in McDougall Hall, on the Sonoma Developmental Center campus. Spring is always beautiful in Sonoma Valley -- why not make a day of it in Sonoma?!

Also, watch your mail boxes for the next issue of The Eldridge Gazette. Snail mail copies should arrive early May -- just before the next meeting. Email copies go out a bit earlier. Paper copies go to all PHA members. If you'd like to receive an email copy, send your details to info@parenthospitalassociation.org and we'll get you on the list. You can also download a copy of The Gazette when it becomes available from the resources page of the PHA website. This next issue will contain a full report of the March Legislative Meeting -- and an important questionnaire that the PHA Board hopes every member will take the time to complete and return. So watch for the next Gazette!

Spring, by St0rmz on flickr.com

Report in on PHA Annual Legislative Meeting: SDC parents speak out

This past Saturday was the Parent Hospital Association's (PHA) annual legislative meeting. Each year area legislators, their staff, and other candidates for office are invited to attend the March general membership meeting. PHA members have a chance to bring their questions and concerns directly to their representatives and get reports on activities in Sacramento, Washington and Santa Rosa affecting Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC) residents.

Turnout was good again this year, and the local press attended. Tuesday's Sonoma Index-Tribune included both a front page article on the meeting, and an editorial.

from the article...

At the Sonoma Developmental Center on Saturday, John Doyle, chief deputy director of the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS), told a gathering of parents and guardians of SDC residents, “Resources must be available in the community before transition takes place. We’re aware of the concerns and we take them very seriously.”

The transition Doyle was referring to is the expected movement of an undetermined number of residents from the 123-year-old facility on the outskirts of Glen Ellen, to smaller, cheaper and ostensibly more efficient group homes in adjacent communities, most or all of which do not yet exist.

And while Doyle sought to assuage the anxieties of family members who have had sons and daughters, sisters and brothers for decades in the Arnold Drive facility, most of the 17 people who addressed a panel of legislators and legislative aids expressed little or no faith in DDS plans to provide a satisfactory and harmonious transition from SDC into the broader community.

Assembled for an annual legislative affairs meeting, the March 8 event was sponsored by the Parent Hospital Association (PHA), a group of family members, guardians and advocates for SDC residents.

Read the full article here: Sonoma Developmental Center parents speak out, by David Bolling (Sonoma Index-Tribune, March 11, 2014)

Mark Your Calendars for PHA Events in March

First, coming up this Saturday, March 8th, from 10 a.m. to noon is the Parent Hospital Association's annual legislative meeting. This is a regularly scheduled general membership meeting. In attendance and on the agenda will be area legislative representatives and prospective candidates. This is our chance to ask important questions, express concerns, offer information directly to legislators and their staff. The meeting is usually full, and we hope to see as many PHA members as possible again this year. Meet in McDougall Hall on the Sonoma Developmental Center campus.

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Next up this month is our big event, Heroes With Heart. Mark your calendars -- and reserve your tickets -- for Saturday, March 29th. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. This year organizers are revisiting the classic "An Evening in the Emerald Isle" theme for this very important evening for PHA. We'll also be returning to the lovely Vintner's Inn in Santa Rosa. More details are available on the Heroes With Heart Event web page, or you can call event coordinators at 707-523-3728.

Sonoma Coalition to Present at Next PHA Meeting

The next general membership meeting of the Parent Hospital Association (PHA) will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, January 11th, in McDougall Hall on the Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC) campus. On the agenda is a presentation from the Sonoma Coalition, a group of organizations, including PHA, working to safeguard the resources represented at SDC.

You can download a copy of the coalition's informational flyer here: Sonoma Coalition Urges Support of Sonoma Developmental Center.

PHA President Reacts to Task Force Recommendations

The last task force meeting took place on December 13th in Sacramento. Parent Hospital Association President Kathleen Miller addressed her reactions to the ideas being generated by the task force to Secretary Dooley. These remarks are supported by PHA members, family and friends of Sonoma Developmental Center residents, and members of the Sonoma Coalition to preserve services for SDC residents

Please add your own input by leaving your comment here on the blog – or you can share your comments on the PHA Facebook page at facebook.com/ParentHospital.

This post is an update of an article included in the most recent issue of The Eldridge Gazette. If you are on the mailing list, you will receive your copy soon -- or download a pdf copy by clicking The Eldridge Gazette, Nov/Dec 2013.

Idea 1: Establish a comprehensive medical resource center for the community
We heartily support this idea and the concept that a clinic be located on Sonoma Developmental Center land to serve center residents who move to alternative placements. We are also pleased that it can include supports for consumers living in other alternative community residential options, who have complex medical and behavioral needs as well as those individuals who are moving from developmental centers. We continue to support the idea that community services must: 1) include a range of options; 2) have access to stable funding; and 3) have available the necessary supports for individuals to live successfully outside  developmental centers.

We also support the concept that a medical clinic be developed and maintained on Sonoma Developmental Center land that provides needed services to maintain the medically fragile individuals and behavior residents who are forced to move to alternative placements prior to them being moved. Those who are early movers must not be excluded from access to medical services simply because they were the first to move. Sonoma Developmental Center physicians should be given the option to work in medical clinics that serve these populations.

Idea 2: Use State Developmental Center land to develop community services, including a medical resource center and mixed use communities similar to Harbor Village
While we support the existing “Mixed-Use” Communities, such as Harbor Village, we do not support the expansion of such communities for current developmental center residents. We oppose the development of a large “Mixed-Use” Community on the Sonoma Developmental Center campus. Our reasons are as follow:

1. The residents with behavioral issues who currently reside in Sonoma Developmental Center require residences that do not have common walls and many require residences with structural supports. Residents with behavioral issues also benefit from having ample space to take walks and de-escalate when it is necessary.  They require an accepting environment that is safe and allows them to be in charge of their behavior when they need to do so. They benefit from the calm, beautiful grounds and a few residents spend the large part of their day outside paying occasional visits to the farm, or store , or simply wandering the natural setting that is SDC. Also, some residents with these issues may require a residence that is locked for a time. However, if this is the case then provisions should be made to be able to transition to unlocked residences as they are able to handle them safely. It would be best if these moves can be accommodated while maintaining most of the elements of their environment. Some residents have changing needs in this regard and provisions will need to be developed that enable those individuals to be able to transition in place within their community from locked to unlocked residences  as needed. Such requirements place serious economic constraints on the type of housing that would meet their needs and calls into question whether they can benefit from the advantages of living in a “Mixed-Use” Community.
2. We do not support the idea that community living is only possible in the company of non-disabled individuals. There are many examples of intentional communities, such as retirement communities, university campuses, housing arrangements for people with autism or other disabilities and developmental centers.” Community” is more than “Mixed-Use “housing which under current regulations means three nondisabled residences per disabled residence. ”Community” includes shared open space where people go to play, work, shop, eat, and celebrate life events together. Intentional communities for those with varied disabilities are often the first choice of consumers.  Two such intentional community housing options currently exist in the Sonoma/Napa Counties in addition to SDC and both have wait lists.
3. Local communities may want to decide how much and what types of development occurs in their neighborhood. Restrictions may currently exist on DC land. Economic realities must be included in the decision of whether a “Mixed-Use” community may be the best use for DC land. There may well be other locations that would better fit such a “Mixed-Use” living project other than developmental center campuses. Much of those considerations lie beyond the scope of this task force.
4. We also feel it is important to point out that whatever else is on the DC land it will need to contain a crises program, a transition facility, a state facility for those whose needs are best met in state housing, and a medical clinic. We fully support the use of DC land for these uses first and foremost and these uses may not blend necessarily with a high density “Mixed-Use” Community.
5. We support a public/private partnership to create half-way ICF homes for behavioral residents who may reside for a time in the state zero reject facility. These homes can create a bridge to help residents transition into community housing or may need to provide a more long term residence for those who present a higher risk to both themselves or to the community. These homes can coexist with a state zero reject facility on Sonoma Developmental Center land.

Idea 3: Serving Individuals with Enduring and Complex Medical Needs

We support the examination and use of mortality studies and mortality data and their recommendations before the forced relocation of medically fragile developmental center residents.

While we understand that there are models of care in the community that provide services to consumers with significant medical needs, we do not agree that they negate the need for state operated facilities. Until death data confirming that these services, and the transitions to them, do not cause the decline and unintended deaths of medically fragile DC clients, they should not be forced into other living options. Currently we do not have access to this data.

Following the closure of Agnews Developmental Center, there were studies to look at the success of the closure and subsequent moves. While there were studies commissioned by DDS at considerable expense, they neglected to provide data on the one issue of concern to our families of medically fragile DC residents -- the rate of deaths during the closure years in comparison to death rates prior to the closure process. When we attempted to obtain these data, we were given data that appeared to be inconsistent and incomplete. Attempts to get information on the rate of deaths during the current closure of Lanterman Developmental Center have yielded more inaccurate data or have been ignored.

Before we eliminate the safety net of the Developmental Centers for those with enduring and complex medical needs, we request that there be data collected on death rates. In the event that there is an increase in the rate of deaths during closures; we feel that needs to be addressed prior to any plan to move the remaining medically fragile individuals out. It is only reasonable that the DDS and anyone concerned about the safety and well being of these individuals would do this.

We also feel strongly that the clinic concept needs to be in place and ready to provide necessary medical support services before any medically fragile individuals transition to alternative homes. It is vital that they have access to enhanced medical services to maintain them in alternative settings.

Idea 4: Serving Individuals with Criminal Justice System Involvement
We support the state continuing to operate a secure treatment facility for those involved with the criminal justice system. We also support the continuation of Canyon Springs as a “step down” program for those leaving Porterville Developmental Center.

Idea 5: Individuals with Challenging Behaviors
We support state services for individuals with challenging behaviors including crises, stabilization and assessment, and residential services. Our reasons are as follows:

1. Members of the Task Force understand and have stated that no model exists outside of the state facilities that can safely provide for some consumers with challenging behaviors.  Closer examination of alternative housing reveals that what is best about an alternative housing model are the provision of enhanced staffing and access to behavior services. These models already exist in specialized housing arrangements with enhanced funding. These provisions have worked for some individuals, but have not worked for others who need even more services and supports. Adding increased restrictions on individual freedoms such as behavioral restraints and locking the homes, is not the answer. Without the intense oversight provided by layers of staffing and the many licensing requirements at the developmental centers there are too many opportunities for these restrictions to be misused. Locking the perimeter and/ or the building and mixing residents with different behavioral challenges, is very likely to lead to a dangerous situation. There is risk that such alternatives will not be safe much less therapeutic. The use of restrictive interventions should be used only with a high level of oversight.
2. Developmental centers already have a process in place to ensure that consumers who are stable and ready to re-enter the community by selecting an appropriate living option, are able to do so. In fact, recent trailer bill language mandates that every single resident have a complete assessment to determine if they are able to make a move to the community. Any resident who expresses a desire to leave has immediate access to assistance from a Client Rights Advocate to assist them in realizing that wish.  Without a mass forced relocation of the last remaining developmental centers of the challenging behavior residents, the DCs will continue to become smaller and leaner.  What is needed now is not closure but restructuring to develop a state system to more cost-effectively serve this limited population
3. Forcing those with intense behavioral challenges out of the developmental centers places them at unnecessary risk. We know from experience that this is a group of people that often suffer from all types of abuse, over or under medication, untoward police involvement, frequent evictions, a limited range of activities and other personal risks. For some people, the developmental centers have provided the only stable home they have ever known. We celebrate the stories of those who have gone to alternative homes and have been successful. Unfortunately, all too often, we families and friends are the only ones available when the community placement falls apart and the individual and the public are at risk. Too many families of behavior consumers have seen loved ones bounced from place to place due to the lack of necessary supports. Today, it is necessary to continue to have state residences to rely on so this will not happen. 

What services should be included at Sonoma Developmental Center

1. Crises services are lacking in for many regional center clients. They can end up in emergency rooms, acute psychiatric centers created for the general population, and even jails. We believe a crises center that can be accessed quickly for those who need it could be a service that should be located on Sonoma Developmental Center grounds and staffed by experienced and qualified state staff.
2. A zero reject state facility, recommended by the task force, should be included in the services provided on the Sonoma Developmental Center site. There are current SDC residents who need to remain there for their safety and well being and this service needs to also be made available to behavior consumers who have been ejected from alternative residences.
3. Sonoma Developmental Center land is an ideal location for a medical clinic recommended by the task force to provide much needed medical services to medically fragile and behavioral former SDC residents who have been required to move to alternative placements. Medical services need to also include dental, durable equipment maintenance, and mental health services for these vulnerable former SDC residents.
4. Sonoma Developmental Center land is an ideal location for public/private partnership ICF homes. Some of these homes can serve as half way homes for behavior residents who are transitioning from the state facility to alternative homes outside Sonoma grounds. Additionally there could be ICF medical homes developed that serve the most medically fragile who would be at risk in other alternative placements. These ICF medical homes would be located near to the clinic to further insure that medical services are available as needed.

Coalition of Organizations Urges Support for Sonoma Developmental Center

Several organizations have joined together over possible changes in store for Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC) and the land the Center has occupied for over 120 years. The Parent Hospital Association (PHA), together with First District Supervisor Susan Gorin and key land use and environmental groups, are working to safeguard the unique and valuable resources represented at SDC.

The agenda of the next PHA general membership meeting includes a presentation by the Coalition, and everyone interested in the future of SDC, it's residents, the valuable services it provides to the disabled and its irreplaceable open space is encouraged to attend. The meeting will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, January 11, 2014, in McDougall Hall on the SDC campus (map).

Below is a portion of the information being circulated by the group. You can access a copy of the complete two-page flyer by clicking SDC Coalition Flyer (pdf file).

Mark Your Calendars Now for 2014 PHA Events

Before the end-of-year festivities and busyness overtake you, take a moment to mark your calendars for these important dates. 2014 will be here before we know it!

January 11, 2014 -- PHA General Meeting, 10 a.m., in McDougall Hall at SDC

We will have a presentation on the Sonoma Coalition. Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC) has long had the support of the surrounding community. Community members have concerns over the future of the site as well as supporting the maintaining of services for developmental center residents. Learn how banding together can help us achieve our goals of supporting services and protecting the environment for future generations.

March 8, 2014 -- PHA Annual Legislative Meeting, 10 a.m., in McDougall Hall at SDC

This year many of our legislative representatives will term out. Assemblywoman Yamada, Senator Evans and others are leaving and we need to hear from those seeking to replace them in their key roles as legislators who oversee Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC). Your attendance is important and it will give you the opportunity to learn who might support us in creating a path forward for our family members who reside at Sonoma.

March 29, 2014 -- Annual Event at the Vintners Inn in Santa Rosa

Our annual event is a wonderful opportunity to get together with others connected with Sonoma Developmental Center, enjoy a delicious meal, and lend support to the Parent Hospital Association's ongoing work representing the interests of the residents at Sonoma Developmental Centers and other developmentally disabled people in Northern California. Please join us in March and support PHA at our annual event -- we'll be at the Vintners Inn again this year.

Parent Hospital Association (PHA) meetings are held in McDougall Hall on the
Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC) campus in Eldridge, CA. McDougall Hall
is the blue building pictured here at the corner of Sonoma and Wilson.

New Edition of The Eldridge Gazette is Available

The next general meeting of Parent Hospital Association (PHA) members and friends is coming up 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, November 9th, in McDougall Hall at SDC. The agenda includes a panel discussion on community services and also discuss the new assessments that have been mandated for all developmental center residents.

The minutes of the last meeting are included in the September/October edition of the PHA newsletter, which is just hot off the press. If you haven't received your copy by snail mail or e-mail, you can download a copy from the website. Visit parenthospitalassociation.org/resources -- you'll also find links to all other back issues available.

We hope to see as many people as can make it next week. For everyone unable to attend -- there will be a full report in the November edition of the Gazette, so stay tuned!

McDougall Hall is the blue building at the corner of Wilson and Sonoma.

Mark Your Calendars for these Upcoming Events

Task Force Meeting in Sacramento
The next meeting of the special State task force considering the future of California's remaining developmental centers will occur on Tuesday, October 22, 2013, in Sacramento. Please take note of the change of venue if you are planning to attend and testify -- the meeting on the 22nd will be held at the Department of Health Care Services located at 1700 K St, Sacramento. It will be located on the 1st floor in the conference room.

Parent Hospital Association (PHA) General Meeting
The next PHA meeting is set for Saturday, November 9th, 2013 from 10 a.m. to noon, in McDougall Hall on the Sonoma Developmental Center campus. We will have a panel discussion on community services and also discuss the new assessments that have been mandated for all developmental center residents.

Please note that the names and contact information for the 2013-2014 PHA Board is available on the website at parenthospitalassosciation.org.

Governor and Legislators Urged to Save Sonoma Developmental Center

Supporters rally in support of Sonoma Developmental Center, on Saturday,
Sept. 14, 2013. (Alvin Jornada / The Press Democrat)

Over the past few months a group of Parent Hospital Association (PHA) members has been working to bring together the voices of the many who value Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC) and send a clear message to Sacramento that SDC must be saved.

The center piece of their efforts has been a petion drive on MoveOn.org. Members also lobbied legislators in Sacramento and testified before the Future of Developmental Centers Task Force.

In addition, earlier this month Sonoma's City Council unanimously passed a proclammation in support of the Center, and last week Mary O'Riordan delivered over 2,300 signatures, along with a message from PHA, to Sacramento, urging the Governor and state legislators to continue the services at Sonoma Developmental Center as an option -- and resource -- for the developmentally disabled citizens of California. She then reported on the progress of the petition drive to supporters at a rally on Sonoma Plaza on Saturday.

The following is the letter that was delivered along with the signatures to Governor Brown and legislators:

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