Guest guest Posted May 12, 2008 Report Share Posted May 12, 2008 Dear Friend of ASO: To all of the Mothers out there a belated Happy Mother's Day! NEWS FROM ASO Autism Early Screening Pilot Update In June, 2007, the Ohio General Assembly included in the Ohio Budget an allocation to the Ohio Department of Health to create an Autism Early Screening Pilot in Ohio thanks to Rep. Bacon and though the efforts of the Autism Society of Ohio. The grant was awarded to the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Focus group meetings have been completed in each of the five pilot counties - Belmont, Warren, NE lin, Cuyahoga and Wood. Meetings were conducted with health professionals including doctors, parents and other professionals including educators. Attendance was excellent and the Ohio AAP is currently compiling the data for the next step in the process - creating the programs for each of the pilot counties. ASO Co-president Barb Yavorcik serves on the Advisory Board for this project. ASO will keep you posted on any new developments! Click here to see a recent news story on the pilot from WKYC NBC in Cleveland! ODMRDD convenes Policy Leadership Roundtable - ASO to Participate The Ohio Department of MRDD has convened a Policy Leadership Roundtable. The group is intended to foster collaborative transformation of the MRDD service delivery system and will include one representative from each of the following organizations: ARC of OhioAutism Society of OhioOhio Association of County Boards of MRDDOhio League for the Mentally RetardedOhio Provider Resource AssociationOhio Superintendents of County Boards of MRDDPeople First of Ohio The group will meet periodically to monitor and help shepherd implementation of the Futures Committee recommendations, as well as work with ODMRDD in an advisory capacity on various policy matters. ASO Co-President Barb Yavorcik will represent ASO on this committee. Look for additional information in future DIGESTS or on the ASO website. Ohio General Assembly debates Special Education Scholarship Program This past week the Ohio Senate Education Committee sent the the Full Senate a bill - SB57 - that would enact a Special Education Scholarship program. This bill would allow any student on an IEP to access up to $20,000 per year for educational services with an alternative provider other than the public school district. Alternative providers can be public or private providers that are registered with the Ohio Department of Education. SB 57 is modeled after the Autism Scholarship program. To read the full text of the bill, click here. The Ohio Senate voted to approve the bill on May 7 and it was sent to the Ohio House for consideration. Look for additional information in future DIGESTS or on the ASO website. NOW OPEN! – 2008 NATTAP Conference RegistrationThe Autism Society of America (ASA) and Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) present the 2nd annual international conference on autism training and technical assistance. The objectives of the conference are to review current systems models for addressing the needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), promote use of best practice in research and intervention and provide methods for capacity building – all of which contribute to the ultimate goal of improving outcomes for individuals ages 3-21. Join the estimated 1,500-2,000 attendees from across the national and around the globe.NEW for 2008! Pre-Conference Sessions - November 18, 2008Pre-Conference sessions are provided by leaders and recognized experts in the field and provide attendees with a valuable opportunity for in-depth discussion and learning.What: 2008 NATTAP ConferenceWhen: November 19-21, 2008Where: Greater Columbus Convention Center | Columbus, OHEarly Bird Rate: $185Parent/Family Member Rate: $100Pre-Conference Session Rate: $100Conference registration and information available at: http://www.nattapconference.org The Autism Society of Ohio has provided a grant to OCALI reducing the registration rate for parents from last year's $185 to $100 for all three days of the conference! Register NOW! 2008 ASA National ConferenceJuly 9-12, 2008Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention CenterOrlando, Florida 2008 Keynoters: Temple Grandin, Ph.D., Bob Hendren, D.O., & Ball, Ph.D., BCBA The Autism Society of America recognizes that families and individuals living with an autism spectrum disorder have a range of issues and needs. The National Conference of the Autism Society of America is the only conference that addresses the range of issues, including early intervention, education, employment, behavior, communication, social skills, biomedical interventions and others, across the entire lifespan. Bringing together the expertise and experiences of family members, professionals and individuals on the spectrum, attendees are able to learn how to more effectively advocate and obtain supports for the individual with ASD. The ultimate goal is to empower family members, individuals on the spectrum and professionals to make informed decisions. Registration & Conference Schedule Go to www.autism-society.org/conference for the detailed 2008 ASA National Conference schedule. All session descriptions and speakers are now listed online, with over 200 speakers and 150 sessions. Be sure to register for the conference online by May 1, 2008, to take advantage of Early Bird Registration prices (Individuals on the Spectrum: $150 & Full Conference Attendees: $220). Exhibitors Don't miss your opportunity to exhibit at the largest autism conference in the U.S. this year. Network with professionals, families, service providers and more. For more information, contact Meg Ellacott, 2008 ASA National Conference Exhibit Director, at ellacott@... or 302.260.9487. Be sure to secure your spot now. Respite Child Care Bring your entire family. Orlando is a great family vacation location. ASA is partnering with Quest, Inc., to provide respite care onsite. For more information, contact ASA at conference@.... Continuing Education Credits BCBA, ASHA and CME credits are available. For session information, contact Autism Society of America at conference@.... The Autism Research Institute presents the Defeat Autism Now (DAN!) Clinician Seminar for professionals on Wednesday, July 9, 2008. For information about the conference, contact Autism Society America Conference Department at conference@... or call 301.657.0881, ext. 10. News on Federal Legislation: Budget Shortfalls: Thirty one states are already mired in or anticipating serious budget problems. The 25 states in which revenues have fallen short of or are expected to fall short of the amount needed to support current services in fiscal year 2009 includes Ohio, which is projected to be behind by $733 million - $1.3 billion. Medicaid Moratorium Bill: Despite a White House veto threat, the House of Representatives by a vote of 349-62 passed the Protecting the Medicaid Safety Net Act of 2008 (H.R. 5613). This bill places a one year moratorium on separate Medicaid regulations pertaining to: Cost Limits for Public Providers, Graduate Medical Education, Outpatient Hospital Services, Provider Taxes, Rehabilitative Services ($2.3 billion cut to narrow the scope of rehab services. Changes could impact day habilitation such as DD skills training and communication skills training.), School Administration and Transportation Services ($3.6 billion cut will prohibit all Medicaid payments for school-based OT, PT, ST and most transportation services), and Case Management Services ($1.3 billion cut restricts coverage of transitional case management from institutional care to the community.) In addition, the legislation also requires the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to hire an independent contractor to do a study of the regulations’ impact on states and provide $25 million annually for efforts to fight Medicaid fraud. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) attempted to put the Medicaid Moratorium bill on a fast track by bypassing committee consideration. That tactic failed when Senator Tom Coburn (R-OK) objected. The next step for the bill is unclear. One possible alternative is the passage of a cloture petition to proceed. Another option is to add the bill to another “must pass†bill, such as the Emergency War Spending bill. According to the Bush Administration the seven regulations would result in $15 billion in cuts to the Medicaid program over five years. However, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, chaired by Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA), has issued a report based on state specific responses to a Committee request, that the regulations will result in almost $50 billion in cuts over 5 years Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA, H.R.495) has passed out of the House and Senate and is poised for Presidential signature. GINA will prevent employers from engaging in discriminative practices including firing, refusing to hire, or otherwise discriminating with respect to compensation, terms, conditions or privileges of employment based on genetic information. Similarly, this bill will prohibit insurance companies, including Medigap, from basing eligibility determinations or adjusting premiums or contributions on the basis of genetic information. The White House has signaled it intends to sign the bill into law. Once signed into law, individuals with disabilities and individuals who may have a predisposition to disability can now access the care they need without fear of retribution.Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) released a draft strategic performance plan for comments from the public. The intent of the plan is to continue a long-term strategic focus on program performance, program improvement and outcomes for individuals with significant disabilities. The draft plan establishes long term performance goals, objectives and measures related to employment and earnings for individuals with significant disabilities and to receipt of VR services by transition aged youths. Upcoming Events, Resources, etc: - SE Ohio ASA and ARC Ohio: “Planning for your Son/Daughter’s Legal and Financial Futureâ€, Athens - Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis and Teaching Verbal Behavior in the Classroom sponsored by the Dayton Autism Society - Upcoming Activities - Tri-County Autism Society - First Annual Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati Mother’s Tea - Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati Bowling with Thorton - Classes Presented by The O’Leary Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders and AS Greater Cincinnati - OAR Run for Autism, Cleveland - Effective Use of Behavioral Interventions for Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders, Kent State University - The Milestones Organization Autism/Asperger's Conference - 7th Annual Autism Summit of NW Ohio, BGSU - Upcoming Events - NE Ohio, Complied by Milestones - OLRS Quarterly: News from the Ohio Legal Rights Service - Information on next MRDD Family Advisory Council - Talk to Policy Makers! - News from the Ohio Department of Education - Office for Exceptional Children - Pittsburgh Autism Expo 2008 - Handout Resources to Address Bullying from Pacer Center - Alternative Therapies - Panel Discussion, Akron - Stepping Stones Center summer camp, Batavia - Understanding and Developing Strategies to Promote Leaning and Positive Behaviors featuring Filler from OCALI, Massillon - Ticket to Work Program - National Autism Association HELPING HAND GRANTS 2008 - NAA Family First Program - Grants for marriage counseling available now - AUTISM NETWORK INTERNATIONAL - Conference for Individuals with Autism - Looking for Information for a Book on Aspergers - International Conference on Self-Determination in Detroit, May 27-29 - Beyond Us/Aspirations Parents Group, Columbus - Websites featuring Free Social Stories If you are interested in participating in research projects, ASO is now posting all research opportunities on our website. For information on available opportunities, visit our webpage www.autismohio.org, click on "Information" along the left side of the home page and then click on "Studies/Surveys". Have you purchased your Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate yet? To purchase yours, visit www.oplates.com and click on "Specialty Plates" or visit our website at www.autismohio.org for more information.Sincerely,The Autism Society of Ohio701 S. Main St.Akron, OH 44311(330) 376-0211fax: (330) 376-1226email: askASO@...web: www.autismohio.org Please note: This is provided for information purposes only. The ASO does not endorse or recommend any providers, methodologies or services. Providing this information should not be construed as an endorsement by the ASO, either explicit or impiled. “Planning for your Son/Daughter’s Legal and Financial Future†Please click the link below to register for the very important training on Saturday, May 10th in Athens, Ohio: http://www.thearcofohio.org/index.php?option=com_events & task=view_detail & agid=82 & year=2008 & month=05 & day=10 & Itemid=50 This training is FREE for families and individuals.Professionals are $75. ODMR/DD CEU’s being offered. Sponsored in part by the SE Ohio ASA Chapter. Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis and Teaching Verbal Behavior in the Classroom FREE Workshop!Co-sponsored by: The Dayton Autism Society, the West Carrollton School District, and FATE...no child with autism left behind Tuesday, May 13, 20088:30 am - 4:30 pmWest Carrollton High SchoolAuditorium5833 Student StreetWest Carrollton, OH 45449 For more information and to register, click here Upcoming Activities - Tri-County Autism Society May 14, 2008Regular MeetingTime: 7:00 p.m.Officer ElectionsCurrent NominationsPresident – D. Gallagher Vice President– L. Dripps or T. Chapin Treasurer – Bo Cencia or Helen Aiello Secretary – D. Houghton or C. Additional nominations will be made at the meetingITAM Club- Second floor115 S. Meridian Rd.Youngstown, OH Cedar Point DaySponsored by: The ARC of OhioWednesday, May 21, 2008RSVP: Dan Gallagher 330-720-2066Email: triautism@...11th Annual GOLF OutingYankee Run Golf CourseBrookfield, OHJune 23, 20089:00 AMContact Chuck or Sue Aldridge for additional information at 330- 856-7338 First Annual Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati Mother’s TeaPlace: Miss belle’s Tea ParlorDate: June 14, 2008. Time: 10:30am – 12:30ish pm. Calling all Mothers!ASGC would like to invite you to our first ever Mother’s Tea.Please join us at Miss belle’s Tea Parlor for a wonderful morning of socializing, support, and delectable English fare. Our High Tea will consist of soup, finger sandwiches, fruit salad, pastries, and of course, tea!Let ASGC treat you to a lovely morning- a time for relaxation, rejuvenation, and reminders of the true Queen you are! There is no charge to attend, however reservations are required. Due to limited seating, each Mother can invite one guest to attend with them. Please RSVP by calling the Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati at 513-561-2300 or via email at asgc@....Miss belle’s Tea Parlor204 West Loveland AvenueLoveland, OHPhone- 513-774-0827 Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati Bowling with Thorton Date: June 7 For complete details, click here. Classes Presented by The O’Leary Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders and AS Greater CincinnatiThe O’Leary Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders (TKOC) in the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, with support from Hamilton County Board of MRDD and The Autism Society of Great Cincinnati, presents a number of classes on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). For all classes you must register with Jan s at 513-636-1377.“New to the Diagnosis Classes†held from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at Madeira Middle School, 6612 Miami Ave, Cincinnati, 45243. The classes below have a $5.00 registration fee. Class size is limited. May 5, 2008 “Treatment Options for ASD†June 2, 2008 “Educational Approaches for ASD†“New to the Diagnosis Classes (continued)†held from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at Drake Conference Center, 151 West Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati, 45216. The classes below are free of charge. Class size is limited. July 7, 2008 - “Overview of ASD†August 4, 2008 - “Understanding Sensory Issues in ASD†“Introduction to The O’Leary Center (TKOC) Class†Free one-hour class held the first Thursday of the month. This class provides an overview of services offered by TKOC and how to access those services. OAR Run for Autism, Cleveland Everybody knows that Cleveland Rocks! Why not start another tradition! RUN FOR AUTISM – Cleveland style. You and your friends are invited to SIGN UP NOW before it’s too late for the 10K charity race scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 18. It’s not a race. . . It’s about going the distance. So, Get up . . . Get out . . . walk, run or jog for a cause and raise money for autism research. You can make a difference! HURRY SIGN UP NOW! Registration now closes on May 15th. For more information, Go to http://www.researchautism.org/ or email run@... or call 866-366-9710. OAROrganization for Autism Researchwww.researchautism.org VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDHELP SUPPORT THE ORGANIZATION FOR AUTISM RESEARCH AT THE 2008 RITE AID CLEVELAND MARATHON, HALF MARATHON & 10KWhere: Cleveland Convention Center Hall D 500 Lakeside Ave E. Cleveland, Ohio 44114EXPO RACE REGISTRATIONWhen: Friday, May 16 or Saturday, May 17 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.2-3 Hour time slots availableVolunteers will meet runners and hand out informationRACE DAYWhen: May18Time: 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.3 Hour time slots availableVolunteers will assist and welcome athletes at the Charity TentSpecial Bonus! All volunteers receive a RUN FOR AUTISM T-Shirt!You can make a difference! Please contact Jerry Engel @ 410-707-1975 2008 Topics in Child Development Conference: June 26th and 27th - Kent State University Topics in Child Development: Effective Use of Behavioral Interventions for Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders. Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) present with a wide variety of strengths and needs. Within the context of a behavioral approach to intervention, parents, educators, and other professionals can develop and enhance positive academic and behavioral skills while simultaneously addressing disruptive behaviors. The 2008 Topics in Child Development Conference will focus on behavioral approaches to intervention that can assist in enhancing existing skills and building new skills to promote success across multiple settings. For complete details, visit: http://www.ehhs.kent.edu/PDO/conferences.cfm For information on the 2008 conference, please contact Kathy Brown at 330.672.0537 or kbrown5@... The Milestones Organization Autism/Asperger's Conference http://www.milestones.org/news_conferences.htm Annual Conference 2008 ConferenceThe 6th Annual Milestones Organization Autism/Asperger's ConferenceLife-Long Strategies for Success: School, Home, Community and Work Keynote Speaker Dr. Jed Baker Monday, June 16, 20088:30 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. (7:45 a.m. registration) At Executive Caterers at Landerhaven6111 Landerhaven Drive, Mayfield Heights, Ohio 44124 This conference is for you if you are a . . . special educator • inclusion teacher • classroom aide • speech therapist • occupational therapist • psychologist • social worker • nurse • music or art therapist • physical therapist • school counselor • parent or relative of individual with autism spectrum disorder • behavioral therapist Schedule Monday, June 16, 20087:45 a.m. — Registration/Continental Breakfast 8:30 a.m. — Welcome 8:45 a.m. to 10:15 — Keynote 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 — Workshops A 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. — Lunch/Exhibitors — Award Ceremony 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. — Workshops B 3:15 to 4:45 p.m. — Workshops C Registration Information Fees Professional Registration Fee (price includes CEUs, continental breakfast, lunch and binder) 150 Professional Group Discount per person (4 or more from same organization with single payment) -$20 Family Member Registration Fee (price includes continental breakfast, lunch and binder) 115 Family Group Discount per person (4 or more from same organization with single payment) -$20 Person with Autism Spectrum Disorder $75 Lunch without Conference Registration $45 Binder without Conference Registration $50 Scholarships A limited amount of conference scholarship aid is available. To request a scholarship application, please email infomilestones@... or call 216.371.4765. Download Scholarship Form Changes/Cancellations Cancellations will be accepted in writing until June 14, 2006, and refunds granted minus 30% of administrative costs. Substitutions for original registrants are acceptable. Professional Development (CEU's) Offered6.0 continuing education hours are pending for counselors, educators, nurses, psychologists, physical and occupational therapists and social workers. .6 CEUs for Speech Languague Pathologists on various levels: professional and related areas is pending through ASHA. Professional development credit is pending toward a BCBA. General certificates of attendance will also be available. Workshop Selection Over the course of the conference, there are three workshop time slots with multiple options per time slot. Please choose one topic for each workshop time slot. Meals Registration fees include a continental breakfast and a buffet lunch. The meals include vegetarian options. If you require a kosher meal, indicate your preference on the registration form. It will not be possible to arrange for special meals on-site. Advertising/Exhibiting/Sponsorship InformationWe invite you to promote your organization at the 2008 Conference Life-Long Stragegies for Success: School, Home, Community and Work. Opportunities are available to be a conference sponsor, exhibitor at the conference, and advertiser in the conference binder. Your message will reach 400 attendees. Download our advertising, sponsorship, and exhibiting participation letter and form. Contact infomilestones@... for further information or to indicate your interest. Conference Location and Directions Executive Caterers at Landerhaven6111 Landerhaven Drive, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124 Questions/Special Assistance Please call Milestones Organization at 216-371-4765 or email at infomilestones@.... 7th Annual Autism Summit of NW Ohio, BGSU Topic: Autism, Social Thinking & Social Skills "Thinking About YOU, Thinking About ME" Keynote Speaker: Winner, MA, CCC Saturday, June 7, 2008 Bowen- Student Union Bowling Green State Univeristy Summit Founded & Organized by: Dr. Ellen , School of Intervention Services, BGSU Dr. Cochran, School of Intervention Services, BGSU Ann Light, Continuing & Extended Education, BGSU Sponsored by: College of Education and Human Development Continuing & Extended Education Wood County Educational Service Center and For more information and to register, click here Upcoming Events - NE Ohio, Complied by Milestones May 17, PECS for PARENTS (Achievement Centers for Children), 9:00 am- 12:00 pm. Achievement Center, Westlake. PECS for Parents is a training designed to teach parents of children with communication challenges the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). Each participant will obtain an understanding of the system and learn how to effectively implement the system at home as well as in the community. In addition, each participant will receive a training binder as well as a PECS book. The training cost is $10 per registrant (sponsored in part by the generosity of the and Turben Foundation). For more information contact Helen Mack at Helen.Mack@... or 216-292-9700 X 248 May 18, Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders-Relatives Perspectives (KidsLink Neurobehavioral Center) FREE, 2:00 pm- 3:30 pm. 8054 Darrow Road Building D, Suite 5 & 6, Twinsburg. For more information or to register call 330-963-8600 or lecture@... May 18, Family Autism Workshop Series: "Visual Tools for Encouraging Communication" (Milestones Organization), 1:30- 4:00 pm. Westlake Recreation Center (www.wlrec.org) This series is for families, caregivers, or tutors interested in learning about ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) and strategies to use in a home. $30 per person, $45 for two family member/caregivers (must register) per workshop *group discounts available! For more information contact Kiersten at 216-371-4765 or milestonesorg@.... Family May 18, OAR Run for Autism (Organization for Autism Research )Cleveland, OH. For questions, please contact the RUN Staff toll free at 866-366-9710; e-mail: run@.... Sign up now! Family May 20, "My Favorite Things", a social opportunity for children with Asperger's Syndrome, Pervasive Development Disorder and High Functioning Autism (Greater Cleveland Asperger Support) FREE, 7:00 pm, Independence Civic Center. Kids of any age are invited to set up a table showing off their hobbies or subjects of interests. Siblings, parents and friends are encouraged to visit the tables and ask questions. Examples of hobbies or interests can be Lego block building, jewelery making, dinosaur habitats or Egyptian hieroglyphics. The target age for this activity is elementary through junior high age, but all are welcome. Please contact Theresa at @... before Friday, May 16 with total number of attendees, whether your child wishes to have a table and the hobby or interest being displayed. Family May 21, Cedar Point Day (Mayfield Village, Think Computer Foundation, Solon and Independence, in cooperation with (The ARC of Ohio) Bus departs at 8:15 am & returns at 7:30 pm (approx.) The cost is $23.00 per person. For persons with disabilities 13 years and older. For Complete Details, call 330-720-2066 or triautism@... June Family June 1, CMR/The Arc of Cuyahoga County presents the 5th Annual CMR/Baker Walk & Expo for Disability Awareness, 10:00 am- 2:00 pm. Brooklyn Senior/Community Center and memorial Park, Brooklyn, OH. Magic and juggling will be provided by the St. Ignatius Circus Company. Play drums with The Rhythmic Arts Project. DJ Rick Cutright will play your requests for music and karaoke.There will be music, art, dancing, free food and entertainment for everyone! For more information or to register call CMR at 216-622-0755 x19. June 16, The 6th Annual Milestones Organization Autism/Asperger's Conference:Life-Long Strategies for Success: School, Home, Community and Work (Milestones Organization), 8:30 am- 4:45 pm. Executive Caterers at Landerhaven, 6111 Landerhaven Drive, Mayfield Heights, Ohio 44124. Keynote Speaker Dr. Jed Baker. For more information call 216-371-4765. June 17-18: "Working With Students With Asperger's: For Teachers, Therapists, and Any Other Professionals Who Work With Students That Have Asperger's in an Educational Setting." (Achievement Centers for Children), 8:30 am - 3:30 pm. Achieve Consulting, Achievement Centers for Children, 4255 Northfield Road, Highland Hills. For more information, please contact Helen Mack at (216) 292-9700 x248 or helen.mack@...June 23- 27, How to Use Behavioral Interventions Effectively in the Public School Setting (Milestones Organization), 8:00 am- 4:00 pm. A Week-Long Hands-on Teacher Training Workshop. Graduate Credits and Professional Development will be availableTeacher Training 2008 Information (Download) - for more infoJune 26- 27, Topics in Child Development: Effective Use of Behavioral Interventions for Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders (Kent State University) Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) present with a wide variety of strengths and needs. Within the context of a behavioral approach to intervention, parents, educators, and other professionals can develop and enhance positive academic and behavioral skills while simultaneously addressing disruptive behaviors. For information on the 2008 conference, please contact Kathy Brown at 330.672.0537 or kbrown5@... June 27, Effective Practices for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (Hattie Larlham Research Institute and Akron Children's Hospital), 9:00 am- 12:00 pm. Akron Children's Hospital, Conference Rooms 1 and 2. Cost is $35.00 per person, university students are free. The guest lecturer is Dr. Dennis Russo, Chief Clinical Officer of the May Institute and National Autism Center. The session will feature Dr. Russo's lecture and a panel discussion with other local experts in the field. For information contact Phylliss Steiner at 1-800-233-8611 or Phylliss.steinerhattielarlham (DOT) org. OLRS Quarterly: News from the Ohio Legal Rights ServiceSpring 2008====================The Ohio Legal Rights Service (OLRS) is an independent state agency and the federally and state designated Protection and Advocacy System and Client Assistance Program for people with disabilities in the State of Ohio. The mission of OLRS is to protect and advocate, in partnership with people with disabilities, for their human, civil and legal rights. Through this quarterly newsletter, OLRS intends to inform Ohioans with disabilities, their families and other interested readers about agency activities and casework, and to provide analyses of issues important to the disability community.====================IN THIS ISSUE1. OLRS Ombuds Section Investigates Abuse, Neglect, and Rights Violations2. Fairfield Center Class Action Moves Forward3. OLRS Acknowledges Outgoing Chair, Commissioner4. EPSDT Class Action - Update5. OLRS Participates on Advisory Committees at Ohio Supreme Court6. OLRS Advocacy Supports the Right to Live in the Community7. Ohio Supreme Court Rules Defendant with Mental Retardation May Not Be Executed8. OLRS Files Briefs in Cases Brought by Parents for Violations of Children's Rights9. OLRS Negotiates for Accommodation in School Transportation Case10. OLRS Files Complaint to Enforce Rights of Students who Need Surrogate Parents11. Accommodations Enable Individuals to Maintain Employment12. Ohio Disability Vote Coalition Plans Presidential Forum13. About OLRSThis newsletter is available online in text-only and PDF formats at: http://olrs.ohio.gov/asp/OLRSQSp08.asp Information on next MRDD Family Advisory Council - Talk to Policy Makers! Well I listened to your requests and we have a GREAT agenda for our June 10th meeting as a result. Last meeting those of you that attended shared your frustrations with the delivery of services as they are designed. Although our presenters did an excellent job outlining how the Individual Service Plan process is to work you wanted administrators to hear from you that sometimes it doesn’t work as presented. We welcome policy makers to our meetings as you being the “customers†are the voice that we want to hear from. Therefore, we put together an agenda where we have invited key folks to hear your stories. This is NOT to be a “complaint†session but a working session to help Ohio’s delivery system meet the needs of our individuals and their families. I would very much appreciate it if you all would think about what you would want to share and have people hear and email it to me. Your story needs to be highlighted and to organize this meeting I will ask those of you whose story I believe will most reflect what we want to accomplish to be part of a panel. I am also happy to announce that Cheryl Phipps, Superintendent of Hamilton County will be presenting on the role of a Superintendent and how the role should be about people we serve. Director will also present on the “implementation†of the Futures Committee recommendations. Since the work of the recommendations has been completed many of you have asked how they will be implemented. This is the next phase and he will share that with you. Mark your calendars for June 10 at CDC training room located at 1601 W. Broad Street 10a.m.-3:00 (we will begin PROMPTLY). Please RSVP to Michele Kanode at Michele.kanode@... or call 614-644-0265 Please submit your story by May 20th!! Thank you. Peggy News from the Ohio Department of Education - Office for Exceptional Children 1. HOLD THE DATE – September 24 and 25th. OEC will be holding the “2nd annual†Special Education Leadership Conference in Columbus. Additional information and registration details will be coming out shortly. 2. Operating Standards - The State Board of Education adopted proposed operating standards numbers 3301-51-01 through 3301-51-09 for children with disabilities. These standards will become effective July 1st, 2008. Rule 3301-51-11, addressing preschool issues is being amended and will be resubmitted for Board consideration at the Board's May meeting. OEC is in the process of developing training materials and will be working with the State Support Team's (SST) to conduct operating standards trainings in the months of May and June. 3. Guidance Document - On a related note, OEC continues work on Ohio's special education guidance document. In the next few weeks we plan on posting the document for public comment. This material is intended to be an interactive web based resource. However, it is our plan to provide one original hard copy of the document to each LEA. We are also planning regional trainings regarding the guidance document once the project is completed. 4. Autism Scholarship Program (ASP) rules - OEC is also updating the ASP rules. The proposed rules have been posted on the ODE/OEC web page. Users may submit comments on the proposed rules electronically. In addition, OEC will be holding five regional meetings to collect public feedback. These meetings will be held in early May. Check the ODE web page using the search phrase “Proposed Autism Scholarship Program Rule Changes.†5. Gifted operating standards - the State Board of Education also adopted new gifted operating standards. The new rules have been posted to the OEC Web page. These rules will become effective July 1st, 2008. 6. OEC Director position - ODE is actively working through the process of filling the OEC Director position. We are hopeful that this process will be completed in the next few weeks. As soon as the new Director is identified we will let you know. 7. Caseload workgroup – OEC has put together of large group of stakeholders to review and address Ohio caseload/ratios which are currently in law. The group will be holding multiple meetings over the next six weeks. The goal of the workgroup is to make a proposal to the State Board of Education updating the caseload/ratios for intervention specialists and related service providers. 8. Retirement news - Lawrence Dennis, Assistant Director, Program Monitoring and Supports, retired on Friday, April 25th, following 35 years of dedicated service. Lawrence's contributions to children and youth with disabilities are far too numerous to list; his passion, dedication and experience have left an indelible mark with the Department. Pittsburgh Autism Expo 2008 For registration information, brochure, and complete scheduling, visit www.pghautismexpo.com This informative 2-day conference is only $80 for parents! Keynote Speaker, Kirby, Author, Evidence of Harm Kirby has been a professional journalist for 17 years, and has written for The New York Times for more than a d! ecade. Kirby's first book "Evidence of Harm, Mercury in Vaccines and the Autism Epidemic debuted at number 27 on The New York Times bestseller list. The book has sparked a national debate and Kirby has appeared on such varied media venues as Meet the Press, The Today Show, Imus in the Morning, Montel and Air America. Dr. Blaylock-- Dr. Blaylock is a board certified neurosurgeon, author and lecturer. He attended the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and completed his general surgical internship and neurosurgical residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in ton, South Carolina. During his residency he ran the neurology program for one year and did a fellowship in neurosurgery after his residency. For the past 25 years he has practiced neurosurgery in addition to having a nutritional practice. He recently retired from both practices to devote full time to nutritional studies and research.Dr. Philip DeMio -- Dr. DeMio is the father of a child with autism, and has been an M.D. for over twenty years. He graduated from the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine with honors in metabolism, women and children’s health, and neurosciences. Prior to medical school he taught and worked in the organic chemistry laboratory at Creighton University in Omaha Nebraska. He is a DAN! physician, an author of medical topics including alternative and conventional medicine, and is accredited for speaking nationally on medical topics including brain toxicology, nutrition, and use of supplements in health and disease for children and adults. Dorfman, M.S., L.N. -- Dorfman is a health program planner and nutritionist with twenty five years of clinical experience. Her specialty is developing nutrition and lifestyle strategies to address complex health problems from autism to bone loss to rare genetic disorders. Physicians and other medical professionals refer cases to her for insight when traditional methods do not attain optimal results.Mark Blaxill -- Mark Blaxill has a daughter diagnosed with autism, Editor-at-Large for Age of Autism and Dir. of SafeMinds. He holds an MBA from Harvard Bus. School with distinction and a bachelor’s degree in int'l affairs from Princeton Univ, summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa. He authored several publications on autism and has spoken at many conferences including Neurotoxicology, Defeat Autism Now!, Autism One, National Autism Association, NIEHS, and the Institute of Medicine Immunization Safety Review.Kim Stagliano - Kim Stagliano is the mother of three girls with autism named Mia, and Bella. She is Managing Editor for Age of Autism, a Huffington Post blogger and author. A former sales and marketing executive, Kim is a graduate of Boston College and is married to Mark Stagliano. They live in CT. You can read her blog at www.kimstagliano.blogspot.com. Kim and her husband Mark and her three girls also appeared on Good Morning America in March, 2008. Len Brancewicz and Joe DiMatteo are registered pharmacists, board-certified clinical nutritionists, and homeopaths. Len Brancewicz, NMD, CCN, DHPh, RPh and ph DiMatteo, NMD, CCN, DHPh, RPh are the hosts of the popular "Ask The Pharmacist" show on XM Satellite radio! You can listen to and take part in the Ask the Pharmacist call-in radio program for you, the active listener. The America's Nutrition Hour radio show is broadcasted on XM Satellite Radio Channel 170 Nationwide!---------------------------------DAY ONE -- FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 20087:45 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. -- Continental Breakfast 8:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. -- Welcome, Short8:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. - Len Brancewicz and Joe DiMatteoA sensible vaccine schedule10:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. -- Snack/Break10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. -- Breakout SessionsSession A -- Dr. Simkovich, The Benefits of Cranio Sacral Therapy Session B -- Mark Blaxill, Vice President, Safeminds, Why are S! o Many Children Sick?Session C -- Kim Stagliano, Age of Autism, Living with Autism Session D -- Lori Karavolis, Implementing a GF/CF Diet12:00 p.m. to 1 p.m. -- LUNCH BREAK1:15 p.m. to 2:40 p.m. - BlaylockMicroglia/excitotoxicity as a central mechanism of autism 2:40 p.m. to 3 p.m. -- Break/Snack3:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. -- Dr. Cheryl Leuthauser, DO -- Integrated Treatments to Consider________________________________________5 p.m. to 7 p.m. -- Reception & Exhibitor Meet & Greet -- Hotel Lounge/Hotel Lobby Join us for cocktails in the lounge and peruse our exhibitor booths from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.!! Meet and greet other me! mbers of the autism community!______ __________________________________DAY TWO -- SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 20087:45 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. -- Continental Breakfast8:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. - Dorfman -- (NUTRITION-RELATED SUBJECT TBA) 10:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. -- Break10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. -- Kirby, Evidence of Harm12:00 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. -- Lunch on your own1:15 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. -- Dr. Philip DeMio, Comprehensive Summary of Biomedical Treatments Handout Resources to Address Bullying from Pacer Center http://www.pacer.org/publications/bullying.asp Bullying Fast Facts Common Views about Bullying IEP and Bullying Is Your Child Being Bullied in CyberSpace? Notifying School Administrators Record Keeping and Bullying Resource List for Young Readers Talk to Your Child About Bullying Telling Classmates About Your Child's Disability May Acceptance Three Step Plan to Stopping Bullying What Every Kid Needs to Know about Bullying What If Your Child IS the Bully? Alternative Therapies - Panel Discussion ASPIES Greater AkronSupport Group assisting parents of children withAsperger Syndrome, high functioning Autism, and PDD/NOS Presents: Alternative Therapies - Panel Discussion Our panel will consist of: Shoemaker (Parent of 2 highly recovered children with autism, Physician-to-Parent Liaison at both offices of Dr. DeMio, and Moderator of Biomedical Support Group in Central Ohio) Becky Rupert, ND, CNC, CCH (a board certified classical homeopath specializing in women and children. She presently has clients in 11 states and 3 countries and offers Naturopathic care and lab testing when necessary. www.therightdose.net Jim Feldman, Attorney (First "diagnosed" back in the 40s when no treatment was known, Jim has an amazing story to tell.) Considine Professional Building (across from Akron Children’s Hospital Main Entrance)Floor 2 - Rooms 5 & 6 Tuesday, May 20th6:30 - 8:30 pm Light Refreshments will be served. For further information, contactJoy Spencer 330-745-5115 Rreindeer@... Stepping Stones Center summer campI'm Peggy Kreimer, PR/Marketing Director for Stepping Stones Center in Cincinnati. We have a NEW SUMMER RESIDENTIAL CAMP SESSION FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS WITH AUTISM June 29 through July 4. Teens with Aspergers will have their own programs. The fee is $700 or $850 if you want a one-on-one camp attendant.The camp is in Batavia, which is 61 miles from the Dayton city building and is just off I-275.The Autism-only camp is just one of Stepping Stones' summer residential camp programs, which are open to children and adults with any disability. We have several adults from the Dayton area who are regulars in our adult residential camp programs, but we are trying to get the word out to more families of children. This is a super children's camp. I hope you can help pass the word about this option for Dayton families.We also have children's respite weekends through the year – these are Friday afternoon through midday Sunday with lots of activities, events, programs. They are planned respites, not emergency respite. Many families use them as mini vacations. Peggy KreimerStepping Stones Center 513-831-4660 ext 27 Understanding and Developing Strategies to Promote Leaning and Positive BehaviorsSpeaker: FillerOCALI, Transition Coordinator June 13, 20089:00 am – 3:30 pmR.G. Drage Technical CenterPresented in collaboration with:State Support Team Region 9Wayne CollegeOCALIWith current statistics indicating that 1 out of every 150 students will be a student with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), all educators should have a basic understanding of the characteristics of ASD. In addition, educators must be able to implement a variety of strategies and interventions that support the student’s learning style and address the challenges of autism. In this workshop, participants will be provided with a thorough description of the characteristics of ASD and the associated learning and social challenges. Strategies and interventions will be introduced during this workshop that specifically address these challenges and can be incorporated into a proactive and positive educational plan. Supports and strategies will be offered in the areas of Sensory Processing, Visual Supports & Structure, Reinforcement, and Skill Development. This session will begin at an introductory level and will move into intermediate to advanced discussions of interventions as appropriate to the participant’s experience.DATE Friday, June 13, 2008TIME9:00 am – 3:30 pmRegistration begins at 8:30 amLOCATIONR. G. Drage Technical Center6805 Richville Drive SWMassillon, OH 44646***Main Entrance***COST$5.00 fee for lunchFee must be paid by check or purchase order made payable to: SST Region 9 REGISTRATIONContact:Laurie stonThe State Support Team Region 92100 38th Street NW, Door #6Canton, Ohio 44709Phone: 330.492.8136Toll Free: 1.800.733.7732Fax: 330.493.9135 DEADLINE TO REGISTERMay 30, 2008 Ticket to Work Program What is the Ticket Program?The Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program is an employment program for people with disabilities who are interested in going to work. The Ticket Program is part of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 – legislation designed to remove many of the barriers that previously influenced people’s decisions about going to work because of the concerns over losing health care coverage. The goal of the Ticket Program is to increase opportunities and choices for Social Security disability beneficiaries to obtain employment, vocational rehabilitation (VR), and other support services from public and private providers, employers, and other organizations. For complete information on the Ticket to Work Program, click here. Putting Trust (and money) Into Trust Accounts, A Solid Investment From the ODMRDD E-newsletter Pipeline Quarterly, Vol. 1 Issue 3: has a disability and receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid. He received a large settlement from a car accident he was in last year. wants to use some of the money for a vacation next year, but knows holding on to the money will cause him to lose his benefits. and have three children. Son, , has cerebral palsy. As part of their will, and want to leave a portion of their estate for ' benefit, but worry that doing so could affect 'future eligibility for government benefits. For individuals with disabilities, having too much money can impact their eligibility for means-tested government benefits (like Supplemental Security Income or Medicaid). Fortunately, trust accounts such as those offered by Community Fund Management Foundation (CFMF) can help. CFMF is a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501©(3) organization created to establish and administer trust programs for Ohio residents with disabilities. The trust accounts offered are designed to set money aside for the supplemental needs of an individual with a disability that improve his or her quality of life, while safeguarding eligibility for means-tested benefits. To date, CFMF has established over 1,300 trust accounts for Ohioans with disabilities, and the current account assets exceed $30 million. Once established, money in a trust account is invested by the Trustee, U.S. Bank, NA. The money in the trust account is for the sole benefitof the individual with a disability (known as the Beneficiary). Money can be requested from the trust account by the Beneficiary’s representative (known as the Designated Advocate) for the Beneficiary’s supplementalneeds. Requests for funds from the trust account are reviewed by the Trust Advisor, CFMF, to help safeguard the Beneficiary’s eligibility for means-tested benefits. Supplemental needs are items or services not paid forby insurance or a government benefits program, but that improve the quality of life for an individual with adisability. Some examples include: Cable TV; computers; Internet service; vacations, including the cost incurred by a companion; experimental or elective surgery; advocacy, including attorney fees; and items such as special therapies or adaptive equipment not available through insurance or a government benefits program. Documents necessary for establishing a trust account were created by and are available from CFMF. Because the documents are controlling legal documents, they must be signed by a licensed attorney. Consult an attorney about how a trust account will apply considering your individual situation and circumstances. Special thanks to S. Ausprunk, and Cusick, Community Fund Management Foundation,who contributed a great deal of information for this article. They may be reached at (216) 736-4540,email cfmf@... For more information about CFMF, or to download documents including the trust documents, visit www.CFMF.org or call CFMF at 216-736-4540 National Autism Association HELPING HAND GRANTS 2008 Please note: Applications postmarked after May 15, 2008 cannot be accepted. Autism is treatable. The Helping Hand Program provides families with financial assistance in getting necessary biomedical treatments, supplements and therapy services for their autistic child. Do not apply for this grant if you are seeking funds for respite care, fencing, trampolines, swingsets, trips to Disney World, etc. This program is intended ONLY for parents in DIRE financial need. Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2008 and will be kept eligible through the end of the year. Please email questions to annnationalautism (DOT) org. Frequently Asked Questions Q: How do I know if my child qualifies for help from the National Autism Association? A: Your child must meet all three basic criteria to apply: 1. Birth to age 18 2. Reside in the United States of America. 3. Diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Q: How much money can I request? A: The maximum amount we can award per family is a one-time grant of $1,500. Q: How do I apply for assistance from the National Autism Association for my child? A: First, review the three basic criteria. If you meet these, then you must complete a GRANT APPLICATION. You must attach a letter from your child's physician that confirms your child's diagnosis. If your request exceeds $300, you must provide a copy of your most recent tax return. Q: Are grant funds paid directly to families? A: At no time are funds transferred to families. All grants awarded are paid directly to the vendor or service provider to pay for tuition, supplements/medication, medical evaluation or testing, therapies, etc. Q: I've sent my application in. How long until I know if my application has been approved? A: Once we have received all components of the application (completed application form, doctor's letter, and tax returns, if applicable), your application will be reviewed by the NAA staff within 3-4 weeks. Two or three grants will be awarded each month during 2008. No awards will exceed $1500 per family at this time. ONLY APPROVED GRANT RECIPIENTS WILL BE CONTACTED BY NAA. Q.: Can I fax my grant application? A.: No, all applications must be sent by mail. Q.: Where do I mail my grant application? A.: Your application must be mailed to the Crystal Spring, MS address shown on the application. Q.: How can I confirm that my application has been received? A.: When you mail your application, request delivery confirmation or a return receipt from the post office. Q: I have health insurance. Can I still apply for assistance? A: Yes. Q: I'm not sure if this request falls within the grant guidelines. Should I still send in an application? A: If your request is for something other than biomedical treatments, supplements or therapies (this does include summer camp programs) for your child with autism, it does not fall within the grant guidelines. Q: We have so many medical bills, we're having trouble paying the rent/electric /water/telephone bills. Can NAA help us? A: The guidelines of this grant do not allow payment for anything other than biomedical treatments, supplements or therapies (this does include summer camp programs) for your child with autism. Q: Do you know of any other grant programs we can apply for? A: We suggest contacting the following organizations for information on their grant programs. ACT-Today at http://www.act-today.orgUnited Healthcare Children's Foundation at http://www.uhccf.org NAA is not affiliated with the above organizations and cannot provide details on grant guidelines or availability. Please contact them directly. Click here to print application in Word format. Click here to print application in .pdf format. Application forms available at www.nationalautismassociation.org/helpinghand.php NAA Family First Program - Grants for marriage counseling available now Just wanted to forward the following grant announcement from the national autism organization NAA. Please go to www.nationalautismassociation.org/familyfirst.php for more info on this grant that has a goal of providing support to families so that marriages stay intact. AUTISM NETWORK INTERNATIONAL - Conference for Individuals with Autism AUTISM NETWORK INTERNATIONAL PresentsAutreat 2008 Monday-Friday, June 23-27, 2008Bradford, Pennsylvania Autreat is a retreat-style conference run by autistic people, for autistic people and our friends. Autreat focuses on positive living with autism, NOT on causes, cures, or ways to make us more normal. For complete details, click here Looking for Information for a Book on Aspergers Dear Autism Society,I am a research psychologist and have been approached by a publisher(JKP) to consider writing a book about parenting teenagers withAspergers. As you well know, looking after children on the autisticspectrum can be an extremely challenging, stressful and isolatingaffiar as I know only too well from personal experience. This book isdesperately needed. It aims to support other parents and to offerprofessionals a chance to see inside out world. We plan that the bookwill take the form of an anthology consisting of six or more casehistories written by parents in their own style. If I cannot getenough contributors it will sadly be a non-starter. I am looking for parents who have one or more children with Aspergerswho are willing to write totally honestly about their struggles. Ifyou would like more information please contact me atannagleave@... Kind Regards, Gleave International Conference on Self-Determination in Detroit, May 27-29 This one-of-a-kind conference is being bought to the Motor City by the Center for Self-Determination. Visit www.self-determination.com and watch for new and exciting ways you can participate. A fresh and updated communications structure is one known outcome of the International Conference of Self-Determination. The time has come to move forward toward self-determination for all! Beyond Us/Aspirations Parents GroupOur monthly Beyond Us Meeting is this week:Thursday - May 15th - 7 pm to 8:30 pmat the COSERCC - COSERRC - Map to COSERRCBe sure to come all the way around to the back of the building - you will see the entrance there.Please RSVP Beu@... so I can set up the room for us. But if you don't RSVP - please do come!We will have a very special "speaker". Jody Fisher from the OMRDD is coming to represent an Interagency Committee of state agencies who service people with ASD diagnoses. The goal of this committee is to assess what services are being given and what the needs of clients are and to help build communication across the agencies. And also, to reduce duplication of services.Basically, Jody wants to know what is like for us as parents and for our young adults - what are our major concerns. This is an opportunity to have our voices heard!I will be giving Jody a copy of Today's Man and the British survey of adults with Autism called I EXIST.FYI - I found a website about a group in Dayton called DARN. It looks like we are doing similar things with similar young adults. DARN Young Adult Group BeuAspirations ParentsBeyond Us - Families of Adults with Aspergers, HFA, & PDD NOSBeyond Us - Families of Adults with Aspergers, HFA, & PDD-NOSWe are parents and families of young adults (18 years & older) with Asperger’s Syndrome, HFA,(High Functioning Autism) & PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified) and related disorders. Although our adult children have average to above average intelligence and may not appear to have a disability, they require specialized support in order to be independent contributing members of our society. As family members we provide the daily support and guidance to help our young adults succeed. Our mission is to help each other and the people who work with our young adults to better understand the challenges of Autism Spectrum Disorder. We will find and help develop the supports and guidance that will make it possible for them to live autonomous lives to their fullest potentials so they can successfully go forward - beyond us. Websites featuring Free Social Stories For those of you who need social stories or want help designing your own in order to work with your kids, here are some freebies: http://www.autisminspiration.com/public/department47.cfm http://www.autism-pdd.net/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=14154 & KW=sample+social+stories http://www.autismcommunityconnection.com/ACC_downloads.html http://www.polyxo.com/documents/ http://www.polyxo.com/socialstories/Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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