ASA-ASO DIGEST: November 17, 2008

[Guest guest]

Dear Friend of ASA-ASO:

Visit ASA-ASO's website www.autismohio.org for an "easy to read" version if this does not come through clean on your listserv. Or sign up to receive your own copy by "registering" on the "login" section of ASA-ASO's homepage.

News From ASA-ASO:

- Upcoming Ohio Budget of concern - ASA-ASO participates in Disability Budget Summit meetings- Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

- ODMRDD Autism Interagency Workgroup releases plan - feedback needed

- ASA-ASO forming Ohio Autism Advocacy Network - Join Now!

- Register now! Conference Begins November 19! – 2008 NATTAP Conference, Columbus

- Federal Update

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- Dayton ASA hosts North Pole Express Train Ride Lebanon, Ohio!

- ASA-Autism Society of NW Ohio - Parents of Adults support group reminder

- Article: Unusual Use Of Toys In Infancy A Clue To Later Autism

- Successful Inclusion of Individuals with Developmental dis-Abilities in the Workplace - For Employers Only, NE Ohio

- Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo, Hershey

- Adopt a Service dog

- Come and join us at Pump It Up of Medina for a Night of Family Fun!!

- Summit County MRDD and JFS present on Tuesday, November 18th- Kidslink Fun Night, Macedonia

- Greater Cleveland Biomedical Support Group

- Geraldo Takes on the Waiting List Crisis!

- Webconference - Autism2008

- New Book: Gut and Psychology Syndrome

- News from the Autism Interactive Network

- Transition Planning for High School Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders: What is Required and What Works, OCALI training in Zanesville

- DD Council Partners in Justice Seminar, Columbus

- Social Skills and Human Development in Autism Spectrum Disorders, Columbus

ASA-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 America - Autism Society of Ohio Chapter701 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 ASA-ASO does not endorse or recommend any providers, methodologies or services. Providing this information should not be construed as an endorsement by the ASA-ASO, either explicit or implied.

News From ASA-ASO:

Upcoming Ohio Budget of concern - ASA-ASO participates in Disability Budget Summit meetings

The first thing the 128th General Assembly will be working on come January will be the next Ohio Budget. The economic climate is pretty dismal in Ohio - so we are facing budget cuts. The ARC of Ohio has organized meetings of disability advocacy groups from around the state in an effort to develop a unified message for legislators regarding disability issues in the budget as they begin deliberations. The Disabilty Budget Coalition will be sending a letter as a group to the Governor listing priorities and concerns in mid-December. ASA-ASO will provide you with this information when it is available. If you are interested in working with us advocating with legislators regarding the budget, please see the article about the Ohio Autism Advocacy Network and join up! The following is a budget update prepared for ASA-ASO by Dodge of Dunn and Associates - a Columbus based lobbying firms that works with ASA-ASO pro bono:

First and foremost, the FY 2010-2011 budget will be center stage from the start of the 128th General Assembly straight through June 30, 2009. It will dominate legislative attention and make it challenging to get legislators or the Administration to focus on anything else. All 3 speakers addressed the external pressures and revenue constraints and the OBM Policy Director highlighted stated areas of priority for Governor Strickland indicating the Governor will be “hypercritical of every line item and will invest in his priorities.†Agencies have submitted their budget plans to OBM assuming between 5% and 10% reductions. It was stated that some agencies or line items could face in excess of a 5-10% reduction. (Bear in mind the Governor imposed two budget cuts already in February and September of this fiscal year of $733 million and $540 million respectively. Many believe another cut is imminent before the end of FY 09.) The 2010-2011 Operating Budget should be introduced around February 4, 2009. It is believed the 2010/2011 Operating Budget will have the same real dollar amounts as the FY 2004/2005 Operating Budget. (In terms of GRF expenditures, this totaled $48.78 Billion for the 2004-2005 biennium.) External Pressures and Revenue Constraints Impacting the 2010-2011 Operating Budget · Primary/Secondary Education – Governor Strickland will be submitting his proposal either via the Operating Budget, Constitutional Amendment or by freestanding bill. His proposal could include any of the following: (1) commitments of the General Revenue Fund (GRF); (2) an expansion of gaming; and/or (3) a tax increase. · Higher Education – Governor and General Assembly committed historic financial support to higher education in the 2008-2009 Operating Budget ($300 million over the biennium to help offset the 2-year tuition freeze) and have indicated they will maintain a level of commitment to higher education in the upcoming budget. · Tax Reform – FY 2010 is the last year of the tax break phase in. In addition to foregone revenue, there is also a local government payment which is equal to $2 billion/year. · DYS Consent Decree which requires operational fixes in FY 2009 to the tune of $20-$25 million. This will likely result in a supplemental appropriations bill before June 30, 2009. · Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Ohio has been overspending TANF to the tune of $200 million – some will suggest offsetting this with GRF. · Unemployment Insurance – must ensure the fund remains solvent - challenge is do you increase what employers pay or decrease what employees get – if we borrow money from feds the interest will have to be paid with GRF. · Commercial Activities Tax (CAT) – ongoing battle with the Grocers who argue the CAT is an excise tax – if court rules in their favor and includes a “look back†period the price tag could be as high as $400-500 million. · Diesel and Contractors – should tax go to GRF or to the Highway Fund? This could cost the state GRF $120 million/year. · HB 95 included a provision to tax satellite but not cable – satellite companies have gone to court – should the court rule in their favor, this could cost the state $88 million/year. · DRC Incarceration rate is at an all time high (approximately 51,000) and continues to grow. This will continue to be a drain on the operating budget as Public Safety and Protection is the 4th highest consumer of GRF appropriations in the Operating Budget trailing only Primary and Secondary Education, Higher Education, and Medicaid. Governor Strickland’s stated priorities: 1. Education Reform for K-122. Access to Healthcare3. Jobs and Economic Development

Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

Because of privacy concerns, the Ohio BMV will no longer be releasing the names and addresses of those who purchase the Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate to the ASA-Autism Society of Ohio. $25 from the purchase of each plate benefits the ASA-ASO and we have been sending thank you notes to all those who have purchased a plate. However, we will no longer be able to do so. The BMV is currently looking into options to add customer consent to the special license plate process so hopefully we will be able to go back to thanking folks formally in the future. But whether we are able to send a formal "thank you" or not, please know that the purchase of an autism awareness license plate makes a big difference and helps us help individuals with autism, their families and those who work with them throughout Ohio.

ODMRDD Autism Interagency Workgroup releases plan - feedback needed!

In February, 2009 ODMRDD Director announced the formation of the AutismInteragency Workgroup (AIWG) at a phone conference with stakeholders. The purpose of the workgroup is to bring together members of the various Ohio state agencies - Health, Mental Health, Jobs and Family Services, Education, Rehab Services and MRDD - to work collaboratively to address the needs of persons with autism and their families in Ohio, using the Ohio Autism Taskforce recommendations as a guide and building on the work already done to make the recommendations a reality.

The AIWG has identified 6 Priorities :• Statewide system of early identification of autism• Evidence-based, high quality, cost effective intervention• Qualified professionals to serve• Support for caregivers and service providers• Effective service and support delivery through regional approaches• Successful transitions across lifespan

The AIWG developed a workplan around the priorities, which Jody presented at the OAC meeting, and they are interested in your feedback! As an individual, family member, advocate, service provider or leader in the field, your input into the IWG work plan is critical and valued. Please review draft work plan, determine if the plan hits the mark for moving Ohio in the right direction, and provide feedback. You are also encouraged to share this plan with others that may be interested in providing their thoughts. All feedback will be shared with the Interagency Work Group and be used to finalize the work plan. Comments or feedback can be directed to autism-feedback@.... Should you have an interest in becoming involved with any of the specific activities outlined in the plan, please include your contact information.

To see the plan, and for complete information on the interagency workgroup, visit the ASA-ASO website, click on "Advocacy" then on "Interagency Workgroup" or click here.

ASA-ASO forming Ohio Autism Advocacy Network - Join Now!

As you are aware, Autism Insurance Parity, HB170 is currently under consideration by the Ohio House Insurance Committee. The fall elections are coming and immediately following the elections it will be time to address next biennial budget for Ohio. Additionally, issues regularly come before the state legislature that impact individuals with autism, their families and those who work them throughout Ohio. And because of this, the Autism Society of Ohio needs your help.

We are in the process of putting together an autism advocacy network that has constituents in each of the districts of the members of the Ohio General Assembly, both the House and Senate. We are looking for advocates all around the state to help us with this effort.

You can volunteer to participate in two ways:

· Team Leader: Each Ohio district will have an assigned team leader who is responsible for carrying the key ASA-ASO/autism messages when meeting with the legislator (Representatives and Senators), coordinating testimony or letter writing for hearings, and for organizing the team members of their district, etc.

· Team Member: Each Ohio district will have several team members that are available to share their own personal ASA-ASO/autism story, to write letters when needed, and to ask from help from their neighbors/families/friends. Team members may choose specialize on certain topics – ie. autism insurance parity topic, special education funding, etc.

ASA-ASO is also developing a Legislative Advocacy Manual and will provide local training to constituent volunteer advocates.

If you are interested in participating in this effort, please send your Name, address, city,zip+4, phone, email address, House District Number and Senate District number and whether you are interested in being a “Team Leader†or a “Team Member†to askASO@.... Please put AUTISM ADVOCACY NETWORK in the subject line. To find your district numbers, visit www.legislature.state.oh.us and follow the directions under "Locating Legislators".

For more information, visit our website at www.autismohio.org

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, OHRegular Registration (July 1 - September 22, 2008): $250Late Registration (September 23 - October 20, 2008): $300On Site Registration (October 20 - November 21, 2008): $315Parent/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!

Federal Update

Economic Stimulus - Medicaid

House committees continued to hold hearings on the economic downturn. The hearings were held in preparation for a possible lame duck session in mid November to consider an economic stimulus package. The Senate has already scheduled a lame duck session for November and may consider a stimulus package at that time. An increase in the federal government's share of Medicaid will reportedly be in any stimulus bill. The National Governors Association (NGA) sent a letter, supported by all 50 Governors, to House and Senate leadership urging swift passage of an economic stimulus package that includes an increase in the federal government's share of Medicaid spending.

Action on Autism to Expect from the New Administration

On November 4, the United States of America elected Barack Obama as its44th president. What will this mean for the autism community?President-elect Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden promoted acomprehensive agenda to empower individuals with disabilities duringtheir campaign. In addition to reclaiming America's global leadership onthis issue by becoming a signatory to-and having the Senate ratify-theU.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the plan hasfour parts, designed to provide lifelong supports and resources toAmericans with disabilities. They are as follows:First, provide Americans with disabilities with the educationalopportunities they need to succeed. Obama and Biden said they wouldfight to provide students with disabilities the public education theyhave a right to, invest in early intervention programs, improve collegeopportunities and support universal screening of infants.Second, end discrimination and promote equal opportunity. Obama andBiden plan to restore the Americans with Disabilities Act, reducingworkplace and labor market discrimination against people withdisabilities.Third, increase the employment rate of workers with disabilities.And fourth, support independent, community-based living for Americanswith disabilities. Obama and Biden want to ensure that people withmental or functional disabilities are placed in community settings whenappropriate.

Read more about Obama's disability plan(http://www.barackobama.com/issues/disabilities/) and his plan forSupporting Americans with Autism Spectrum Disorders(http://www.barackobama.com/pdf/AutismSpectrumDisorders.pdf).

Both Presidential candidates also wrote to the Autism Society of Americaand the National Health Council this past July for our town hall meetingon health care. Read Obama's statement(http://www.autism-society.org/site/DocServer/ASA_-_Obama_letter.pdf?docID=9642).

The Autism Society of America continues to work with the President-electon a myriad of issues, most recently drafting language to ensure thatindividuals with autism receive the treatments they need, promotingeffective research into future treatments, and making sure thesetreatments are appropriately covered by insurance.

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

Dayton ASA hosts North Pole Express Train Ride Lebanon, Ohio!

Hello everyone!All aboard!Everyone in the greater Dayton area are welcome to join the Dayton AutismSociety as we board the North Pole Express on *Sunday, December 7th, 2008.*Meet at Lebanon Station, 127 S. Mechanic, Lebanon, OH 45036 at 12:30 PM forthe vintage holiday train that departs promptly at 1:00 PM.Group tickets are $14.40 for adults, $12.00 for youth 2-12, one and underare free.Ticket money must be received by Nov. 26, 2008.Send name, email address, phone number, names and ages of attendees, andcheck made out to the Dayton Autism Society to P.O. Box 1013, Miamisburg, OH45343.This is not just for kids with autism! Bring your family, friends, andrelatives, but don't forget your camera!Train ticket includes a photos with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Rudolph,entertainment by Santa's elves, a cup of hot cocoa and a holiday cookie, a30 minute train ride to LM & M Junction to pick up Santa, and a visit withSanta on the train ride back to Lebanon Station!The vintage train cars were constructed in the 1930's and are not heated,air-conditioned, or handicapped accessible. The train has no restrooms butpublic facilities are available by the Lebanon Station and at thedestination. All rides run rain or shine.Hope you can join us for this fun-filled event!-- BernotaitisPresidentAutism Society of America - Dayton ChapterDBA Dayton Autism Societya 501©3 organizationhttp://www.daytonautismsociety.org

ASA-Autism Society of NW Ohio - Parents of Adults support group reminder

1. This is a reminder that our Parents of Adults support group will meet on Tuesday, November 18 from 11:30 am - 1 pm here at our office. You may bring a lunch as well. Ann will not be able to make it so I will be facilitating by Linell Weinberg this time. For more information visit www.asno.org

Linell Weinberg, MSWExecutive DirectorAutism Society of Northwest Ohio4848 Dorr Street Suite 1Toledo, OH 43615phone: 419-578-2766 (419-578-ASNO)fax: 419-536-5038e-mail: asno.org@...website: www.asno.org

Article: Unusual Use Of Toys In Infancy A Clue To Later Autism

ScienceDaily (Nov. 7, 2008) — Researchers at the UC M.I.N.D. Institute have found that infants later diagnosed with autism exhibited unusual exploration of objects long before being diagnosed. Studying a group of children at high risk for developing autism, the researchers found that those eventually diagnosed with the disorder were more likely to spin, repetitively rotate, stare at and look out of the corners of their eyes at simple objects, including a baby bottle and a rattle, as early as 12 months of age.

These findings could help pediatricians diagnose and treat autism earlier, reducing some of the social and educational challenges associated with the disorder.

"There is an urgent need to develop measures that can pick up early signs of autism, signs present before 24 months," said M.I.N.D. researcher Sally Ozonoff, first author of the current study, which was published in the October issue of Autism, the journal of the National Autistic Society.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that all infants be screened for autism twice before their second birthdays. Currently, pediatricians look for the hallmark social and communication signs of autism, which include language delays and lack of interest in people.

"The finding that the unusual use of toys is also present early in life means that this behavior could easily be added to a parent check-list or quickly assessed during a visit to a pediatrician's office," Ozonoff said.

The study involved 66 one-year-old infants. Nine of the children were later diagnosed with autism. Seven of the nine children displayed significantly more spinning, rotating and unusual visual exploration of objects than typically developing children.

"We found that these behaviors were relatively rare in the contrast group, but very high in the group who later developed autism," Ozonoff said.

Current screening tests focus on social-communicative behaviors like responding to name, making eye contact and word learning. These measures accurately distinguish children developing autism from children who are developing as expected.

The average age of autism diagnosis in the United States is three years of age or older. Interviews with parents, however, have shown that signs of autism often are present long before the diagnosis is made.

"About a third of parents notice signs before a child's first birthday," Ozonoff said. "We felt that our field could do a better job at early diagnosis, so we decided to look at multiple candidates for early screening and early detection," she explained.

Ozonoff and her colleagues decided to look at repetitive behaviors that previous studies indicated developed later than two years of age. These retrospective studies, however, relied on the memory of parents whose children were ultimately diagnosed with autism.

"We wanted to directly test whether or not repetitive behaviors so characteristic of autism might actually be apparent earlier and therefore useful in early diagnosis," Ozonoff said.

In contrast to previous research, the current prospective study began with a group of 12-month olds who had not received any diagnosis. The study group included infants from families who had either an older child diagnosed with autism or an older child developing typically.

To approximate the skewed gender ratio of autism in the real world, 62 percent of the infants enrolled were male. The children in the study were presented with four objects — a metal lid, a round plastic ring, a rattle and a plastic baby bottle — one at a time for 30 seconds each while being videotaped.

Researchers blind to the outcomes coded the behaviors in the tapes. The children were screened for autism at 36 months. Ozonoff and her colleagues found that children later diagnosed with autism were more likely to repeatedly spin and rotate objects. They were also more likely to explore objects in unusual ways, like glancing sideways at them or starting intently at them for prolonged periods.

"Our results suggest that these particular behaviors might be useful to include in screening tests," Ozonoff said.

More research involving more infants will have to be done first. Ozonoff and her colleagues have already begun a larger five-year study that also includes a high-risk sibling group like the one used in the current study.

"We will also want to check that we find the same results in a random community sample," she said.

These kinds of long-term studies, Ozonoff said, are the keys to improving early detection and diagnosis of autism.

"The earlier you treat a child for autism, the more of an impact you can have on that child's future," she said.

Other study authors included UC M.I.N.D. Institute researchers Young, Goldring, , Sally and Suzanne Macara, who is now at Yale University. The study was supported by a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health.

Adapted from materials provided by University of California - - Health System.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/11/081106153540.htm

Successful Inclusion of Individuals with Developmental dis-Abilities in the Workplace Please note - this seminar is for EMPLOYERS only - so share with any possible employers you may know!

Tuesday, November 18 2008, 2:00pm - 5:00pm Keynote Speaker: Randy , Senior Vice President, Distribution & Logistics, Walgreens. Mr. will be recognized for his innovative vision to create the workforce for the future. Looking for employees with low turnover, high longevity, high employee satisfaction, tremendous corporate loyalty? Hear about a model of workplace inclusion that increases overall company productivity and enhances the bottom line Network with colleagues at other companies with employee inclusion programs Interact with educators who are developing college programs to support individuals with disabilities who will enter the workforce Develop contacts with social service agency staff who work with employers and employees to develop job coaching and supported employment programsRandy , a father of an adult son with autism, says “my son has taught me to look past the disability and see the person.†His personal and professional experiences led him to develop a Walgreens Distribution Center in , South Carolina to accommodate employees with disabilities. The Distribution Center is a model of productivity. While over 40% of its 700 employees have disabilities, the center is 20% more efficient than any other in the Walgreens organization. The message from Randy is that including individuals with disabilities in the workforce is not only the right thing to do, it is also good for the bottom line. Randy emphasizes, “We constantly remind people we are not a charity. We are a business. We are very interested in being a success. We want to make this amodel...If we can help others do the same thing, we are there for them.†Support the development of the future workforce: donations accepted online at website below or by mail: Milestones Autism Organization, 3246 Desota Avenue, Cleveland Hts. 44118.Audience: Families or ProfessionalsRegion: EastLocation: Tri-C East Corporate College Organization Name: Milestones Autism Organization Corporate Education Event sponsored by Forest City Enterprises in cooperation with Cuyahoga Community College, Hattie Larlham, JCFSA, OCALI, UCP Contact Name: Kiersten ston Contact Phone: 216-371-4765Website URL: www.milestones.org Cost: No charge. Reservations are required.

Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo

http://www.peteandc.org/ This is a Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo and Conference scheduledfor February 8-11, 2009 in Hershey. This is a premier conference for ATideas for students with Special Needs throughout our region.

Adopt a Service Dog

Project Heel 2 Heal (H2H) Project Heel 2 Heal is a collaboration between the Central Ohio Youth Center (COYC) and the Union County Humane Society (UCHS). COYC is a 38-bed secure detention facility located in sville, Ohio. Staff at UCHS screen shelter dogs for participation in the program. COYC residents then train the dogs to be placed in families or organizations with special needs. The goal of the program is to teach dogs and residents acceptable pro-social behaviors. In addition, the program provides residents with opportunities to develop the personal and vocational skills they need to become productive, responsible members of the community. Residents train the dogs daily and practice the principles of positive reinforcement and behavior modification. As residents manage the dogs, they learn how to manage their own behavior, develop good work habits, and acquire valuable occupational skills. Residents train the dogs to be certified as Canine Good Citizens under the guidance of Kym Jarvis, Professional Trainer. It typically takes between six and eight weeks to get dogs certified. Residents spend time each day training the dogs and recording their progress.Anyone interested in adopting a Heel 2 Heal dog should contact Betsy Hauck at 937/642-1015 or e-mail at hauck2267@....

Come and join us at Pump It Up of Medina for a Night of Family Fun!!Sensory Night is reserved for children with Sensory Needs and their families on the 3rd Monday of every month.WHAT: Sensory Night at Pump It Up of MedinaWHEN: Monday, November 17, 2008 from 5:30 - 7:00.COST: $10 per child, $3 per adult. Pizza and drink are included!You can purchase tickets online to be guaranteed a spot at http://www.eventbrite.com/org/49326888?s=889520 or just come in to play.If you know of anyone with a sensory needs child, please pass on this information.Check out our website for additional information at www.pumpitupparty.com, then select the Medina, OH location. Or you can call us at 330-598-1627 for any questions.

Summit County MRDD and JFS present on Tuesday, November 18th

ASPIES Greater AkronSupport Group assisting parents of children withAsperger Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, and PDD-NOS part of the Greater Akron Chapter of the ASA presenting representatives from: Summit County MRDD andJob & Family ServicesWho They Are, What They Do, & Why You Need Them! TUES., Nov. 18 - 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Please note the change in the location for this meeting!SHERMAN AUDITORIUM (3rd Floor past Cafeteria - Hospital staff will direct you)AKRON CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL1 PERKINS SQUAREAKRON, OH 44308 (Childcare not provided.) For further info, contact Joy Spencer by phone 330-745-5115 or e-mail Rreindeer@... Displays will be on hand from: Discovery Toys, Vested Interest, Kingsley Publishing

Kidslink Fun Night, Macedonia

Please join us for Friday Night Fun, Nov. 21st, from 7 - 9 PM at Fun 'N Stuff in Macedonia.Fun 'N Stuff is located at 661 E. Highland Road (between Valley View and Route 8). The evening will include laser tag and skating. Cheese pizza and drink will be served.To reserve your spot we MUST have your RSVP no later than end of business on Monday, Nov. 17th. to provide for proper staffing. Cost is $35.

Beth Lattime, a licensed intervention specialist with expertise in recreation and education for adolescents, will lead all events. Parents provide transportation both to and from each event listed.

Further info? Call KidsLink at 330-963-8600 or visit www.kidslinkohio.com.

Greater Cleveland Biomedical Support Group Meeting

Come join us at the Greater Cleveland Biomedical Support Group Meeting!Topic: DOES MY CHILD HAVE YEAST? The yeast connection and its role in autism When? November 19 at 6:30 - 9 pm Where? Independence Field House (same room as last month) 6354 Selig Blvd., Independence, OH At this meeting we will learn all about yeast and its role in autism, as well as about treatment options. Come hear what other parents have done to treat yeast and learn about the successes and pitfalls of treatment. This month we again invited Shoemaker, Parent to Physician Liaison at Dr. DeMio's office, who will speak to us after 's introduction to the topic. She is also a mom to a highly recovered child who has first hand experience with treating yeast. She runs a successful parent support group in Columbus and is happy to help the Cleveland group get started!An informal discussion and Q and A session will follow so be sure to bring your questions. We can continue our meeting after 9 pm at the nearby Winking Lizzard.If you would like to attend, please RSVP to at apattison@... or at 216.544.1231 by November 17. For directions you may call (216) 522-0088 (front desk) at the Field House. It is the building directly attached to the Independence High School. Thanks and I hope you will be able to make it! Pattison The meeting is sponsored by the National Autism Association - Northeast Ohio Chapter(NAA-NEO), www.autismnortheastohio.org.

Geraldo Takes on the Waiting List Crisis!

Videos and stories documenting the crisis needed NOW.

January 6, 2009 hour-long news special to focus on the emerging crisis for people with intellectual disabilities and their families.

-------------------------------

Visibly moved by comments from self-advocates, family members and chapter leaders at the Opening Plenary Session of The Arc's 2008 National Convention, renowned television journalist, Geraldo , electrified the audience, pledging that on January 6, 2009 - the anniversary of his expose about Willowbrook - he will present a one-hour news special to shine light on the current crisis facing people with disabilities and their families - the Waiting List.

This news expose will only be possible if chapters of The Arc, self-advocates and family members come forward IMMEDIATELY with VIDEO and STORIES that dramatically illustrate the challenge people with intellectual disabilities face today in accessing the service they need to live freely in the community.

The Arc of the United States will be working with Geraldo and his staff to gather the background information, stories, video and other media to make this show a success..... but time is very short.

Have good video to share? Send it in today.

Have a compelling story to tell? Then get to work today. Write it down or, better yet, take out your video camera and film away!

Geraldo needs stories about the crisis people with disabilities and their families are facing at all stages of the life span.

Send your video or stories to communications@.... For assistance contact Hart, Director of Communications at hart@... or Monoghan, Online Advocacy Manager, at monoghan@...

Let's make this the beginning of the end of the Waiting List.

Webconference - Autism2008

Log on to Autism2008 - the world's biggest online autism conferenceNovember 24, 2008Key addresses:1. www.awares.org/conferences 2. www.awares.org 3. www.autismcymru.org 1. Autism2008 - the latest Awares International Online Autism Conference -opens on November 24, 2008 and lasts for a whole week. Last year'sconference attracted thousands of delegates from around the world andProfessorSimon Baron-Cohen called it "the best online autism conference on theplanet."As in previous years, Autism2008 is a unique opportunity to put youtquestionsdirectly to people with autism and international autism professionals. Thisyear's outstanding list of more than seventy speakers includes:Professor Simon Baron-Cohen (UK), Dr Mesibov (USA), Dr Ami Klin (USA),Donna (Australia), Dr Folstein (USA), Merry Barua (India), Dr Constantino (USA), Dr Carol Gray (USA), Dr Skuse (UK), Dr PamelaHeaton (UK), Dr Glenys (Wales), Dr Dawn Wimpory (Wales), Dr Keay-Bright (Wales), Shore (USA) Dr o Canitano (Italy), DrCasanova (USA), Dr ne Bejerot (Sweden), Chantal Sicile-Kira (USA), DrDarold Treffert (USA), Dr Mayada Elsabagh (UK), Dr Sven Boelte (Germany),Nualaand Dale Gardiner (UK), Dr DeLong (USA), Dr Dirk Dhossche (USA),DennisDebbaudt (USA), Dr Cheryl Dissanayake (Australia), and Dr Ludlow(UK).Topics will range from the genetics, neurology and immunology of autism,biomedical approaches, environmental issues, educational methods, autism inadolescents and adults and first-hand experiences of living with autism andAsperger's syndrome.Autism2008 is open to absolutely anyone with an interest in autism.To find out more about Autism2008 and receive e-mail updates with all thelatest conference news, please take a moment to register now atwww.awares.org/conferences and make a note in your diary to join us onNovember24, 2008. Please also let anyone else know who might be interested. Abstracts of speakers' papers will be available online atwww.awares.org/conferences from November 17, 2008, and the full papers fromNovember 21.An online Foyer Café will also be available for delegates to meet anddiscussissues prior to the conference.Autism2008 - the latest Awares International Online Autism Conference - isorganised by Autism Cymru - Wales' National Charity for AutismFor further information, feel free to e-mail me at<mailto:adam@...> adam@... Just a reminder that you can register right now for Autism2008 atwww.awares.org/conferences

New Book: Gut and Psychology Syndrome

The Gut and Psychology Syndrome Diet has its foundation on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD) created by Dr. Sidney Valentine Haas to heal digestive disorders. SCD gained great popularity after a mother, Elaine Gottschall, healed her own child and became an advocate for SCD. Elaine Gottschall is also the author of the popular book Breaking the Vicious Cycle. Intestinal Health Through Diet. The new book is Gut and Psychology Syndrome by Dr. Natasha -McBride and the website is http://gapsdiet.com/ (no www).

News from the Autism Interactive Network

IAN Treatment Report: Special Diets

Learning Word Meanings

Adults with ASD: The Spectrum

The 'C' Word (cure)

Transition Planning for High School Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders: What is Required and What Works

Date & Location: December 3 & 4, 2008 Zanesville* Openings still available!Fees: $50 which includes continental breakfast and buffet lunch. Fees will be invoiced and processed upon acceptance to the conference. SEND NO MONEY WITH APPLICATION.Content: Review of Latest Requirements for IEP Transition Plans, Best Practices in Transition Planning, and Implications for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders

For more information or to register, contact:

Vicki KniselyTransition Executive SecretaryOhio Center for Autism and Low Incidence(614) 410-0753vicki_knisely@...www.ocali.orgvicki_knisely@...

DD Council Partners in Justice SeminarDecember 2, 2008 Holiday Inn7007 N. High StreetColumbus, OhioPhone 614-436-0700Topic: Law Enforcement: Content: What everyone should know regarding youth offenders with intellectual disabilities and the criminal justice systemPresenters: Vince Holland, Cuyahoga Probation; Mike Kontura, Cuyahoga County Bd MR/DD Topic: SexualityContent: How to differentiate typical sexual curiosity / experimentation from victimizing behaviors. What’s normal / what’s not.Presenters: Lee Balser, Disability Resource Network; Barbara , TECS Education Center Topic: Mental Health / Mental RetardationContent: How having a mental health diagnosis effect having mental retardation and visa versa. How reach a child through these filters.Presenters: Dave Hammer, PH. D, Nisonger CenterTopic: Sensory SensitivityContent: How sensory sensitivity may manifest itself with maladaptive behaviors.Presenter: Ann Pilewskie Topic: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder Content: How have FASD may effect maladaptive behaviors.Presenter: Kathy Paxton, OSU Center for Excellence Topic: Transitional ServicesContent: Vocational agency programs and initiatives helping youth avoid the juvenile justice system.Presenters: Jill , COVA; Mike Kenny, Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission; Lutrell Jolly, COVAAgenda8:00 - 9:00 Registration9:00 – 9:45 Opening9:45 – 10:00 Break10:00 – 11:30 Workshops 11:30 – 1:00 Lunch1:00 – 2:30 Workshops2:30 – 2:45 Break2:45 – 4:00 WorkshopsCOST $25.00 (Includes Lunch) Disability Resource Network Mail Partners in Justicec/o Barbara Brown8800 Road#106The Plains, Ohio 45780Phone (740)-797-0352OhioPartnersinJustice.org Make Checks payable to:Disability Resource Network Mail Partners in Justicec/o Barbara Brown8800 Road#106The Plains, Ohio 45780Phone (740)-797-0352OhioPartnersinJustice.org

Social Skills and Human Development in Autism Spectrum DisordersDecember 2 - 3, 2008Columbus, OH For complete information, click here

Get the Moviefone Toolbar. Showtimes, theaters, movie news more!