ASA-ASO DIGEST: January 5, 2009

[Guest guest]

Dear Friend of ASA-ASO:

Best wishes for a safe and happy 2009 from 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:

- ASA-Autism Society of Ohio hires Executive Director

- New ODE Superintendent Deborah Delisle Starts December 1

- Governor Strickland Appoints new Director for ODJFS

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

- Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

- Federal Update

Tell the New Administration Your Ideas for Autism

ASA a member of the Council on Quality and Leadership

ASA meets with President-Elect Obama's Transition Team

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- News from the Autism Society of America:

2009 Call for ASA Award Nominations 2009 Call for ASA Board of Directors Nominations Washington Capitals Game Benefits ASA Autism on the Seas Vintage Car Enthusiasts Raise Awareness, Funds for Autism Make a CHANGE Today! Contact President Elect Obama New Paternal Age and Child Development Study "The Classroom and Communication Skills Program" 2009 ASA National Conference, July 22-25 in St. , Ill. "Top Ten Tips" A Survival Guide for Families with Children on the Autism Spectrum New Web Site a Tool for Parents, Educators New Book on Journey of Mother and Son United Cerebral Palsy Launches Theatre and Drama Program "What's That Look on Your Face?"

ASA Awards and Scholarships- Latest news from the ASA-Dayton Chapter

- Autism Society - Greater Cleveland January Monthly Meeting

- One Place for Special Needs Website

- Article: New method of scoring IQ tests benefits children with intellectual disabilities

- 2009 College Scholarships for Students with Parents with Disabilities Announcement

- November Issue Ohio Magazine features Barron

- NEOAG Presents Rock the Puzzle 2009 - save the date!

- Social Times Magazine, Poster available from APC

- Next of Kin Registration Now Available to Ohioans ODPS and Ohio BMV launch first of its kind system

- Special Needs Adaptive Programming/Sports, Urbancrest (SW Columbus)

- ASPIES Greater Akron Adult Support Group, Akron

- ARC Lucas County offers New Programs

- ASPIES Greater Akron Parent's Support Group, Akron

- TV News Feature: Medina family partners with schools to take on food allergies

- Article from s Law: Who is Eligible for Special Ed?

- Article: Goals for the Next Year

- Milestones (Cleveland Area) Latest Newsletter

- ASAN starts online group for teens with autism

- Article: Realistic Resolutions - 31 Parenting Resolutions to Transform Your Child, Your Family, Yourself

- The First International Conference on Autism Spectrum Disorders, Focusing on Biomedical and Other Treatments

- January Meeting of the Cleveland Area Biomedical Support Group

- Dayton Aapergers Resource Network Meeting, January 5th

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:

ASA-Autism Society of Ohio hires Executive Director

ASA-ASO has hired former Co-President Barbara Yavorcik as their part-time Executive Director, effective January, 2009. Ms. Yavorcik has served as a board member of ASA-ASO since 1999 and either President or Co-President since 2002. Prior to her involvement with ASA-ASO, she was involved with the ASA-Northwest Ohio Chapter, serving as both Secretary and President. She has served on a variety of state level autism related committees and taskforces including a committee of the Ohio Autism Taskforce, Autism Service Guidelines Committees, the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Futures Study Committee, and Chair of the Advisory Board for the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence. Ms. Yavorcik has a BS in Electrical Engineering and has been employed by Surface Combustion, Inc. for over 20 years. She is married and has two children, including a son, 20 years old, with autism. Please join the entire ASA-ASO Board in welcoming Barb as she transitions to her new position!

Current ASA-ASO Co-President Sawan Caruso, will remain as President of ASA-ASO.

New ODE Superintendent Deborah Delisle Starts in December

The Ohio Board of Education appointed Deborah Delisle to replace outgoing Superintendent of Public Instruction Tave Zelman. To read more about Ms. Delisle, click here

Governor Strickland Appoints new Director for ODJFS

12-23-2008 - from SP Dunn and Associates, the lobbying firm that work with ASA-ASO pro bono - Over the last week, Governor Strickland announced the appointment of E. Lumpkin as the new director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and L. Boyce as the Treasurer of the State of Ohio.Doug Lumpkin currently serves as the lin County Job and Family Services Director, and will fill the position vacated by former ODJFS Director Helen . Boyce is a Columbus City Council Member, and will fill the Treasurer position to be vacated by Cordray (who will become the Ohio General Attorney in January).

2008 Ohio Legislative Update:

The elections are over and the Ohio General Assembly is now in "Lame Duck" session. "Lame Duck" is the time after the elections when some members prepare to leave office but before the newly elected legislators take office. We have over 40 new "freshman" legislators that will take office in January. The Republicans maintained their majority in the Ohio Senate. However, the Republicans will no longer be the majority in the Ohio House, with the Democrats gaining a slim majority of members. This means that all of the leadership in the House will change to members who are Democrats, including all of the Committee Chairmanships.

HB170 - Autism Insurance Parity

There were only 15 session days that were part of the lame duck session. These days are generally devoted to addressing bills that have passed out of one chamber, but not the other (ie. passed in the Senate but not the House) and other business that is close to completion. Unfortunately, because HB170 has not passed in the House and has not been introduced in the Senate, there will be no more hearings or movement on this bill in lame duck. But just because there will be no movement in the rest of this session does not mean our efforts have been in vain! Much of getting a bill passed is educating the legislators about the issue and the need for the bill - and all of your efforts and the work of ASA-ASO have certainly helped to educate our legislators. It is not at all uncommon for bills to take consideration by several General Assemblies before adoption.

Because the Ohio House now has a Democratic Majority, Rep. Ted Celeste (a Democrat from Columbus) and a current sponsor of HB170, can introduce the bill in the new session with a reasonable expectation that it will be acted upon by the committee to which it is assigned. Rep. Celeste has advised ASA-ASO that he will introduce a bill addressing autism insurance parity as soon as possible in the next session! This bill will most likely contain language that specifically includes Applied Behavior Analysis therapy or ABA, which was not included in HB170. The bill will be given a new number in the new session.

However, even though the bill will be introduced early next year, it will most likely not receive much action until after the House addresses the Operating Budget Bill, which is presented to the legislature by the Governor in early February. The House will address the budget bill in February and March, the pass it on to the Senate for deliberation in April and May before it goes to a conference committee in June to resolve any differences and is sent to the Governor for his signature prior to July 1, 2009. There are several issues related to the budget that you can assist on and ASA-ASO will provide you more information after the bill is introduced.

ASA-ASO will be sure to keep you up to date on any progress or movement of an autism insurance parity bill in the next session.

Other Bills of interest:

HB 129 Video Meetings: To authorize for a two-year period a pilot program that allows the members of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council, the Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council, the Governor's Council on People with Disabilities, and the facility governing board and judicial advisory board that govern or advise on the STAR Community Justice Center in lin Furnace, Ohio, to be present at board meetings by teleconference or interactive video teleconference, and to require reports on the effects of member participation in meetings in this manner. · Passed the Ohio House 05/07/08; Passed the Ohio Senate 12/17/08, and the House concurred with any changes by the Senate on the same day. It will now be sent to Governor Strickland to be signed into Law. HB 620 & HB 621 were heard in the Ohio House Health Committee – 12/17/08 – · HB 620 Agency Name Change: To change the name of the Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities to the Department of Developmental Disabilities and to make similar name changes for the Joint Council on Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, the Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities Developmental Center Closure Commission, and certain state funds. (1st Hearing-Testimony by the Sponsors – Representatives Jimmy and Fred Strahorn) · HB 621 County Boards Name: To change the name of County Boards of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities to County Boards of Developmental Disabilities, and to make similar name changes for certain county funds.(1st Hearing-Testimony by the Sponsors – Representatives Jimmy and Fred Strahorn) Both of these bills will die as the 127th Two-Year General Assembly ends at the end of 2008. Since Rep. Jimmy was elected to the Ohio Senate beginning in January 2009, it is expected that these two pieces of legislation will be reintroduced in the Ohio Senate in 2009 (with new Senate Bill numbers).

SB57 Special Education Scholarship - this bill was passed by the Ohio Senate in May, 2008 and passed on to the House Education Committee. There were several hearings and the bill was debated in the lame duck session. It passed out of the Education committee, but was defeated in the House by a narrow margin. No information currently on whether the bill will be re-introduced in the next session.

For more information on these and other bills join the ASA-ASO Ohio Autism Advocacy Network:

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

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.

Federal Update

Tell the New Administration Your Ideas for Autism President-Elect Obama and the Transition team need to hear from our community in a VERY BIG way! Tell the new administration your ideas for autism.

Please visit the http://change.gov/agenda/health_care_agenda/ and advance the agenda to support individuals with autism and their families. There is a button there where you can submit your ideas for change. The more people write in to tell the new administration their autism concerns, the bigger chance we have of improving the lives of all affected by autism.

Not sure what to write? Go to http://www.autism-society.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle & id=12477 for some suggested language from the Autism Society of America.

Please pass this information on to family, friends, neighbors and anyone else you know who has an interest in improving the lives of all affected by autism. Then, ask them to go to the site and do the same. Together, we can create positive change!

ASA a member of the Council on Quality and Leadership

For more than three decades, The Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL), has been at the forefront of the movement to improve the quality of services and supports for people with intellectual disabilities and people with mental illness. The organization began with the fundamental belief that everyone has a right to a life of dignity, opportunity and community inclusion. ASA is a member of the Council. To see their latest newsletter or get more information about the group, click here.

ASA meets with President Elect Obama's Transition Team

On January 2, 2009, Lee Grossman, President and CEO and Barbara Newhouse,Chief Operating Officer, were invited to participate along withrepresentatives from Easter Seals, TASH, Autistic Self Advocacy Network,Autism Speaks, and Dan Marino Foundation in a meeting with members ofPresident-Elect Obama's transition team to share policy issues and concernsthat are important to the Autism community.

Kareem Dale, Disability Coordinator/Liaison in the Public Liaison andIntergovernmental Affairs department who led the meeting on behalf of thetransition team was clear in his message to all participants that we are a"partner in this Administration" with this meeting as a "beginning" withmore to come as we seek ways to work together within the Autism communityand across the broader disability community to address the needs ofdisability related issues. The new Administration seems sincere in itsefforts and willingness to listen and act upon our concerns in an effort toimprove the quality of life of those with Autism and the greaterdisabilities community.

We felt encouraged by the meeting and look forward to continuing to supportthe efforts of our new President and his Administration. We will continueto communicate updates to you as this work progresses.

Please continue, as many of you have, to submit your comments tohttp://www.change.gov/agenda/health_care_agenda .

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc.:

News from the Autism Society of America:

2009 Call for ASA Award NominationsEach year, the Autism Society of America presents a number of awardsand scholarships to individuals and organizations in recognition oftheir commitment to the autism community. Awards and scholarshipwinners are announced each year at ASA's National Conference andExposition on Autism Spectrum Disorders. For information about awards,eligibility and submissions, please visit ASA's Awards andScholarships page at www.autism-society.org/asa_awards. 2009 Call for ASA Board of Directors NominationsThe Autism Society of America will hold elections in 2009 for tworegional Board positions (Midwest and Southeast regions) and oneAt-Large position. Please submit your nominations by Monday, March 2,2009. For information about qualifications and expectations,nomination requirements, submission requirements and campaignguidelines, visit ASA's Board of Directors page at www.autism-society.org/asa_boardadvisors_dir. Washington Capitals Game Benefits ASADon't miss the Washington Capitals hockey team play the TampaBay Lightning January 1 at the Verizon Center in Washington, D.C.! $5from each ticket benefits the Autism Society of America.Tickets are $35 for seats in the mezzanine or $65 for lower preferredseating.

Autism on the SeasJoin the Autism Society of America on a fabulous 12-nightMediterranean Cruise aboard award-winning Oceania Cruises as we sailfrom Athens, Greece, to Venice, Italy, October 22-November 3, 2009. Wewill visit six ports of call across 13 countries. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=gD32qAppqSZT5sFblfv9-Q..Vintage Car Enthusiasts Raise Awareness, Funds for AutismVintage Car Rally Association founders Rex Gardner, Charlie McKinneyand Vic brought a passion for cars and a passion for givingtogether recently as they presented the Autism Society of America withover $30,000 raised this year to help those affected by autism. Thegift was made doubly effective by a generous matching donor. Bill, president of Autism Society of America-Heartland (based inKansas City, Kan.), accepted the check for ASA. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Z0xvYkDCpIUKFS5wOQSgPw.. Make a CHANGE Today!It is time for aggressive action from the grassroots level.President-Elect Obama and the Transition team need to hear from ASAand our community in a VERY BIG way! Please visit the Change.govHealth Care page and advance the agenda to support individuals withautism and their families. Look for the button where you can submityour ideas for change. The more people write in to tell the newadministration their autism concerns, the better chance we have ofimproving the lives of all affected by autism. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=fNOjakwdrfc_w0xb9a3wKw.. New Paternal Age and Child Development StudyTel Aviv University researchers have conducted several consecutive studies examining whether older dads are more likely to have boys with autism and lower IQs. Most recently, they found that the older a father's age, the greater the chance that his son will display poor social abilitiesas a teen. Dr. Mark Weiser from TAU's Sackler School of Medicineand his team of researchers are now studying what causes thisphenomenon. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=tVn2yi205pFG6sM5kiP24w.."The Classroom and Communication Skills Program"For young students, going to school--a new place with new people andnew rules--can be a scary experience, especially for those on theautism spectrum. For teachers and professionals, this phenomenondoesn't go unnoticed and they must work to create environments inwhich these students can learn and be successful. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=m68lFRkR-PD4hWW2czu80w.. 2009 ASA National Conference, July 22-25 in St. , Ill.The 2009 ASA National Conference will be held in St. , Ill., atthe Pheasant Run Resort July 22-25. We will be opening registration inmid-January. Please visit the Frequently Asked Questions on theconference Web site: www.autism-society.org/conference.We anticipate 2,000 attendees this year and more than 150 exhibitors,plus speakers from around the globe. In 2008, we were able to expandour professional credit offerings and create a comprehensive programthat drew a record number of attendees.Over 60 booths have already sold for next year's event. Toparticipate as an exhibitor, program guide advertiser or sponsor,please contact Meg Ellacott at ellacott@... or302-260-9487. Visit www.autism-society.org/conference and click onexhibit information to learn more. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us atconference@.... "Top Ten Tips" A Survival Guide for Families with Children on theAutism Spectrum"Top Ten Tips": offers 520 practical, tried-and-true tips for parentingchildren on the autism spectrum. The book is organized into ninepractical chapters, with topics ranging from family outings, holidaysand frequent activities (bath time, meal time, etc.). Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=RVCS3fKDSp0wKYfZbo2OUw.. New Web Site a Tool for Parents, EducatorsVideoplaylist.org is a free site where any parent can create aplaylist for his or her kids to view preselected videos from YouTube.Created by the parent of a child with autism, the site has a built-inshutoff timer and other features that make it well suited to theautism community. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=QVLGrILGKNnG2Jg6bKoGSg.. New Book on Journey of Mother and Son"Moondance at Midnight" is an emotional true story of one mother's fightagainst adversity in a world full of bureaucracy to protect her sonwith autism and ensure he reaches his potential. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=a_BBkn8aAvOzLxWfJK9hwg.. United Cerebral Palsy Launches Theatre and Drama ProgramUnited Cerebral Palsy of Los Angeles (UCPLA) offers a series of dramaand theatre workshops to students with autism spectrum disorders andother related disabilities. The program is called the UCPLAy Projectand is dedicated to help all children discover their potential andgain the wonderful and empowering experience of making art. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=FvQkDkFWgO-LjGobahwzzg.. "What's That Look on Your Face?"Recognizing and interpreting facial expressions and the feelings theyrepresent poses great challenges for children with language andcommunication difficulties, including those with an autism spectrumdisorder. The new book "What's That Look on Your Face?" helpsyoung readers link faces to feelings by presenting situations they canall relate to. Each page spread is devoted to a feeling expressedthrough an exaggerated facial expression accompanied by a short poemthat further elaborates on the expression to reinforce its meaning.Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=-Tei-mEiPgcYT5YM9PEY5Q..

ASA Awards and Scholarships

Each year, the Autism Society of America presents a number of awards andscholarships to individuals and organizations in recognition of theircommitment to the autism community. Awards and scholarship winners areannounced each year at ASA's National Conference and Exposition on AutismSpectrum Disorders.ASA Award and Scholarship Eligibility Guidelines1. Eligibility:* Only ASA members in good standing may submit nominations. It is alsorecommended that nominees be ASA members.* All nominations (except where noted) must pertain to accomplishmentsoccurring during calendar year 2008.* No current member of the ASA Board of Directors or the Panel ofProfessional Advisors, PSA (or program with which one of the ASA Board, PSAor PPA members is associated) is eligible.* Individuals, organizations or products that have won an ASA award are noteligible in the category in which they have previously won.* The ASA will only administer one award to an individual or group within agiven calendar year.* With the exception of the CVS/All Kids Can Scholars Program, you cannotnominate yourself for an ASA Award.* Voting members of the ASA Awards Committee are prohibited from making anomination.* Guidelines apply to all ASA Awards and the CVS/All Kids Can ScholarsProgram.2. Each nomination must include at least five copies (REQUIRED) of thefollowing materials. ALL ITEMS REQUESTED ARE REQUIRED:* A cover page with the name of the nominee, address, day phone number,e-mail address, and the award for which they are being nominated; and thename, address, day phone number, and e-mail address of the ASA member makingthe nomination.* An essay (500 words maximum) by the ASA member making the nomination,stating a) why the nominee deserves this award and the nominee'ssignificant contribution to autism.* Nominations in the Media Excellence, Outstanding Literary, and OutstandingMusical Contribution categories must include five copies of the work beingnominated (e.g., the book, poem, video, compact disk or DVD).* Any nomination, including those to the ASA National Awards and the CVS/AllKids Can Scholars Program, submitted with fewer than five complete copieswill be disqualified.* All award submissions, including all materials (books, videos, etc.), willnot be returned.3. Please clearly label on each item submitted the name of the person beingnominated and the award category.4. The ASA Awards Committee evaluates all nominations and selects winnersthat are appropriate for each category.A winner is not necessarily chosen from all categories. All winners will benotified no later than April 30, 2009, and will be recognized at the AutismSociety of America's 40th National Conference on Autism SpectrumDisorders at the Pheasant Run Resort and Spa in St. , Illinois onJuly 22nd thru the 25th. Winners of ASA Awards will receive a one-daycomplimentary registration for the day of the award presentation.Specify your award category and mail to:Autism Society of America7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 300, Bethesda, MD 20814Attention: 2009 ASA AwardsAll materials must be postmarked by March 31, 2009, and received no laterthan April 2, 2009. ASA will not be responsible for late, damaged,misdirected or misaddressed mail.2009 ASA Award Categories:

ASA Volunteer of the YearAn award presented to a chapter member whose work has positively influencedthe lives of individuals, parents, and professionals coping with autism inhis or her community.Media Excellence Award Video, Print or NewsAny item released, published, or copyrighted within the last five years(January 1, 2004 & later) that has made a significant contribution to theautism community is eligible.Outstanding Literary Work of the YearFamily/Social Division (book, poem, essay, etc.)Any item published or copyrighted within the last five years — January 1,2004 & later is eligible.Outstanding Literary Work of the YearEducational Division (book, poem, essay, etc.)Any item published or copyrighted within the last five years — January 1,2004 & later is eligible.Autism Professional of the YearProfessionals who have made a significant contribution in the autism field(educator, speech language therapist, social worker, occupational therapist,psychologist, psychiatrist medical doctor, or researcher). This list is notexhaustive; nominations for all types of professionals are welcome.Outstanding Individual With Autism of the YearAn individual with autism who has excelled in one or more areas of lifeexperiences or contributions. Demonstration of exceptional dedication,effort or achievement. Areas to be considered can include, but should notnecessarily be limited to: academics, the arts, athletics, communityservice, employment, extracurricular activities, transitions or independentliving skills.ASA Audrey I. Horne Memorial AwardGiven to an individual or organization that has made an enduringcontribution to improving adult services and the quality of life for thoseindividuals living on the autism spectrum.CVS/All Kids Can Scholars ProgramThe CVS/All Kids Can Scholars Program, administered by the Autism Society ofAmerica, provides a scholarship in the amount of $1,000 to a qualifiedindividual with autism to be applied toward the completion of an accredited,postsecondary educational or vocational program of study (e.g., college,trade school, etc.).Eligibility: The scholarship is available to an individual with autism whohas successfully met all the requirements for admission into an accreditedpost-secondary program of study.See ASA's Award and Scholarship Eligibility Guidelines for details onnominator and nominee eligibility and the awards selection process.Guidelines: Applicants must provide five copies of the following to beconsidered by the ASA Awards Committee:* A cover page with the name of the nominee, address, day phone number,e-mail address, and the award for which they are being nominated; and thename, address, day phone number, and e-mail address of the ASA member makingthe nomination.* Self-nominations are accepted for this award only.* Documentation of status as an individual with autism* Secondary school transcripts* Documentation of acceptance into an accredited, postsecondary educationalor vocational program of study* Two letters of recommendation* Personal statements of no more than 500 words, outlining the applicant'squalifications, social security number and proposed plan of study.These should be completed by both the nominee and the nominator. If theindividual is self-nominating, only one statement is required.Mail to: Attn:CVS /All Kids Can, Autism Society of America,7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 300, Bethesda, MD 20814

Autism Society - Greater Cleveland January Monthly MeetingTuesday, January 6, 2009 @ 6:30 PMGuest Speaker : Dr. Tucker - Pediatric Anesthesiologist at Dental Offices (Short Presentation) & An Informal Parent Support Discussion (Discuss important issues among other parents/caregivers in an informal setting)Cuyahoga Valley Career Center8001 Brecksville Road, Brecksville, OH 44141RSVP required for childcare at support@... or (216) 556-4937.Autism Society of Greater Cleveland (ASGC)P.O.Box 41066Brecksville, OH 44141(216) 556-4937 or support@...

Latest News from the ASA-Dayton Chapter

January 2009 NewsGreetings! Happy New Year to you and yours!We hope your holiday celebrations were filled with family and fun!We are so excited to share our plans for 2009! First off, you've probably noticed the new logo, above. The chapters of the Autism Society of America are re-branding to reflect our unified commitment to serving families living with autism at the local level. While we are the largest grassroots autism organization, our focus has always been the individual family. Our chapter will continue to serve the families of the greater Dayton area, funds raised will still stay local, plus we'll be able to provide national events, such as the Bounce for Autism in April, that will bring us together as a nation. We hope you'll make plans to join us!As a chapter, we are proud to be rolling out a new website within the next month which will have improved aspects of our current website (information pages, interactive calendar, autism awareness merchandise shop), some exciting new elements to jazz up the site, and a flash chat that will allow for real-time interactive conversations! Have you ever been in the throes of a horrible tantrum with your child, struggling with potty issues, or wondering how much Olive Leaf Extract to give your child and couldn't wait for a response on a listserve? Me, too! That's why I'm so excited about the real-time chat feature we'll be able to bring to families through our website. Never again will we have to go-it-alone! We are also in the planning stages for our Walk for Autism and Vendor Fair 2009 which will be held Saturday, April 4, 2009. We have some exciting plans to make this year's walk bigger and better! Regardless of the weather, we will be warm and dry inside our huge pole tents with sides that will house the vendor fair, food, and other activities. Lots of kids activities are in the planning stages and this year, we have received confirmation that our entertainment will include CMT Music City Madness finalist Maddie Georgi who is just 16 years-old and wrote "Take My Hand" for her younger brother, Jake, who has autism. Watch for our new walk website which should be ready in January. It will be very interactive with your own captain page, the ability to recruit team members, a scrolling Honor Roll of donations raised, and more!We look forward with hope to the new year. We get so much satisfaction from helping families navigate the autism maze and seeing those we've helped turn to help others. Thank you for your continued support.God bless you and yours. BernotaitisPresidentAutism Society of America-Dayton Chapter -----------------------------------

In this issue Private Sensory Jumps continue! Special Needs Tax Planning Workshop Scheduled Autism Conference, South Bend IN now accepting registrations A call for artists on the spectrum How can I join the Dayton Autism Society?

Private Sensory Jumps continue!Thanks to the very positive feedback we received about our monthly Sensory Jumps at Pump It Up, they have scheduled more! Mark your calendars for the following second Monday's of each month:Monday, January 12 Monday, February 9 Monday, March 9 Monday, April 13 Monday, May 11

Each Sensory Jump goes from 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM and costs $7.00 at the door or $7.99 pre-booked online through Pump It Up Miamisburg's website for children. Parents play for free. Sensory Jumps are for children with sensory issues and their families. Pump It Up Miamisburg is located at 685 Precision Ct., Miamisburg, OH 45342. Sensory Jumps are special because it's a private party, the group is small, and the noise is kept to a minimum. If you've ever been to an open bounce or birthday party at other times, you know how overwhelming both the crowds and noise can be. We are very grateful for this partnership with Pump It Up that we can provide this special time for our families.Bounce for Autism coming in AprilThrough a partnership between the Autism Society of America national and Pump It Up national, we are able to bring you a fantastic event called the Bounce For Autism! Our Bounce event is scheduled for Sunday, April 19th from 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM.This event raises money for the Autism Society of America and in turn, the chapters they support. Information will be coming soon about what the Bounce for Autism is and how you can be part of the fun! Special needs tax planning workshop scheduled

You are cordially invited to join us for a special needs tax planning workshop on:Thursday, January 15 from 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Nidich, Special Needs Atty. and Tax Preparer, will discuss how to make the most of your deductions, how to keep accurate records, and more with regards to your special needs tax issues. Bring your questions! Workshop is held at the Miami Valley Regional Center, 4801 Springfield Street, Riverside, OH 45431 Workshops are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Sorry, we cannot accomodate children.Please RSVP to: info@...Autism And Alternative Treatments/Bio-Medical Conference registration now openThe Autism and Alternative Treatments/Bio-Medical Conference scheduled for January 30-31, 2009 at the Century Center Convention Center in South Bend, IN is now accepting registrations. Keynote speakers are Jim Ball, ASA and Bono, NAA...moreMark your calendars...ASA-Dayton's Walk for Autism 2009-April 4th!A call for artwork! Registration will begin in January for the second annual ASA-Dayton Walk for Autism and Vendor Fair. Start getting your teams together now! The Walk will be held at the same location as last year, Payne Recreation Center, Moraine, OH, only bigger and better! We have taken your suggestions and made changes we think you'll be very impressed with. We are again looking for sponsors, and vendors of autism-related goods. If you or your company falls into either of those categories, please contact us via email: info@.... Watch for information about our new website and new walk website coming very soon!We are also looking for artwork by a person on the spectrum for our shirt. You can submit artwork for consideration by mailing a copy, along with the artist's name and age, to: P.O. Box 1013, Miamisburg, OH 45343. Keep the original in a safe place! Artwork must be received by Feb. 1, 2009 for consideration. All artwork received becomes the property of the ASA-Dayton Chapter. We will be looking for artwork that we can build a slogan around. If you have any suggestions, be sure and submit them with the copy of the artwork. This is a nice way to fill those long, cold afternoons!How can I become a member of the Autism Society of America and the Dayton Chapter?Membership to your local chapter of the Autism Society of America is FREE and automatic when you join the National Autism Society of America. You are either automatically assigned to a chapter by zip code or you can choose which chapter to belong to, it's up to you. Under the ASA restructure plan, a portion of your membership fee will come back to the local chapter. To become a member of the ASA, visit the ASA website at http://www.autism-society.org. To be added to the ASA-Dayton membership roster, simply present your valid ASA membership card, or receipt of current paid membership to the ASA-Dayton board at any monthly support group meeting (held the third Thursday of each month). You will receive a welcome gift on the spot! What are the benefits of membership?ASA members receive a subscription to ASA's quarterly magazine, the Autism Advocate, a leading source of information on autism-related issues.ASA members also have voting privileges and are core supporters of ASA's mission.Chapter membership cardholders receive a special discount on Chapter events.Chapter members receive special recognition at our annual Autism Walk. Members-only events are also being planned. Support LOCAL autism organizations by joining the ASA and the Dayton Chapter, and help us help local families!Contact Information Mailing address: P.O. Box 1013, Miamisburg, OH 45343 Phone (voicemail): (206) 984-5760 email: info@...website: http://www.daytonautismsociety.org NEW WEBSITE COMING SOON!

One Place for Special Needs Website

Click here to view.

Article: New method of scoring IQ tests benefits children with intellectual disabilities Parents of children with intellectual disabilities have long been frustrated by intelligence quotient (IQ) testing that tells them little to nothing about the long-term learning potential of their children.That's because these tests are scored according to the mean performance of children without disabilities. The result is that the raw scores of many children with intellectual disabilities are converted into the lowest normalized score, typically a zero. "We send back these reports that don't tell parents anything about their child," explained Hessl, an associate professor of clinical psychiatry and a researcher at the UC M.I.N.D. Institute. Hessl and a team of collaborators have devised a new system of scoring IQ tests taken by children with fragile X syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes intellectual disabilities, including autism. The details of the new method are described in a study published online today by the Journal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders. "If this new method becomes widely available, we will be able to tell parents something more useful and more accurately diagnose and treat young children who are learning disabled," said Hessl, a physician who cares for children at the M.I.N.D. Institute with fragile X syndrome. According to Hessl, there is a lot of meaningful variability in the performance of these children on IQ tests. "We believe that this variability is important information about the relative strengths and weaknesses that these children have," Hessl explained. Frustrated by the lack of sensitivity of IQ tests, Hessl set out to devise a scoring method that would reveal the strengths and weaknesses of each child. "I knew a more accurate estimation of the potential of these children would make a big difference in their lives," he said. Hessl worked with fragile X researchers at the M.I.N.D. Institute and Stanford University, as well as a statistician from Pennsylvania State University. The team came up with new normalized scores for 217 children with fragile X syndrome who had undergone IQ testing. Many of these children had normalized scores of 0 on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, an intelligence test for children between the ages of 6 and 16 that can be completed without reading or writing. On the new scale, children scored as low as minus 10 on 14 subtests. These included verbal, arithmetic, picture completion and object assembly. Like normalized scores of children without disabilities, the frequency of the new normalized scores for children with fragile X syndrome followed an expected, bell-shaped distribution. "These new scores tell us more precisely how a child with fragile x syndrome deviates from the normal population in every sub-test area," Hessl said. Physicians and parents also need to know that these new scores reflect something about the biology of the children. So, the research team went on to compare the new normalized scores to a measure of adaptive behavior and a biological measure of the severity of fragile X syndrome. Without a normal copy of the fragile X gene, a vital protein (FMR1 protein, or FMRP) is not made and the result is the onset of characteristic mental disorders, which can range from learning disabilities to severe cognitive or intellectual disabilities, such as autism. Hessl and his colleagues compared the levels of FMRP in blood from the test subjects to their new scores and found a significant correlation. They found similarly significant correlations between the IQ test scores and scores on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Composite, which measures personal and social skills used in everyday living. Treatment of fragile X syndrome depends on its manifestations in the individual, and range from behavioral therapy to medication. Widespread use of new normalized scores would allow physicians to better treat their patients, Hessl said. Psychological Corporation, the publishers of the Wexler IQ test, gave permission for their raw date to be used in the context of research. "I think we've made a good case for the makers of this test and others to release raw data to researchers so that this method can be applied to other populations with intellectual disabilities," Hessl said. He is also hopeful that someday soon he will get permission to use his new scoring method when treating his patients. In the future, the publishers of IQ tests should include lower-functioning individuals in their standardization studies, Hessl said. "This might mean over-sampling those with intellectual disability in order to get more sensitivity, but it would help so many children," he said. Source: University of California - http://www.physorg.com/news148642082.html

2009 College Scholarships for Students with Parents with Disabilities AnnouncementAll application materials must be completed and postmarked by Monday March 16, 2009. Through the Looking Glass and its National Center for Parents with Disabilities and their Families are pleased to announce new scholarships specifically for high school seniors and college students who have parents with disabilities. These scholarships are part of Through the Looking Glass’ new federal grant (New National Center for Parents with Disabilities and their Families). Please note that these are new awards and have different application procedures than in the past. There are two separate scholarship awards, and each has separate eligibility requirements: 1. High School Seniors. To be eligible, a student must be a high school graduate (or graduating senior) by Summer 2009, planning to attend college in Fall 2009 and have at least one parent with a disability. Five separate $1000 awards will be given out in Fall 2009. Individuals may submit only one application per award period. 2. College Students. To be eligible, a student must be currently enrolled in a college or university, be 21 years of age or younger as of March 16, 2009, and have at least one parent with a disability. Five separate $1000 awards will be given out in Fall 2009. Individuals may submit only one application per award period.For more information regarding these scholarships, please contact:The National Center for Parents with Disabilities and their Families2198 Sixth Street, Suite 100Berkeley, CA 94710(800) 644-2666 (voice); (800) 804-1616 (TDD/TTY); FAX: (510) 848-4445Website: http://www.lookingglass.org/

November Issue Ohio Magazine features Barron

Click here to view article.

NEOAG Presents Rock the Puzzle 2009 - save the date!

Friday, April 3, 2009

Our annual fundraising event, Rock The Puzzle, is set to hit House of Blues Cleveland on Friday, April 3, 2009. This event promises to be another huge success, with an evening full of music, fun, food and libations.

Throughout 2008, with monies raised from Rock The Puzzle, we have provided support to many local programs for autism, and have also established autism resource centers in our local libraries to help better educate the community. Our ultimate goal is to give the children and adults affected by autism in our area the best chance possible for success.

As always, all of the proceeds from Rock The Puzzle will stay in Northeast Ohio. In an effort to better direct support to critical programs in need, we are proud to announce that 100% of ticket sales from Rock The Puzzle 2009 will go directly to Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital new Autism Initiative. Following is a brief description...

Rainbow, in partnership with other local autism groups, is planning a comprehensive Autism Initiative, which will provide a complete list of services for the child and their families across the lifespan. In order to address the needs and challenges of children, adults and families affected by autism, this unprecedented Initiative will combine research and clinical services, as well as community outreach and training to help improve the lives of these individuals. A newly created position of Resource Coordinator will help families and professionals navigate the system of available autism services. Included will be a central database of housing, employment, recreation, summer camps, respite workers, daycare providers, and personal care attendants with experience/expertise in autism.

We are hopeful that you will join us at Rock The Puzzle 2009 to make this a community initiative. Tickets will be available for purchase in February, please check http://www.rockthepuzzle.com/ for updates. Thank you to all of our current sponsors! If you would like to be included as a sponsor for Rock The Puzzle, please contact us at 440.488.3473 or email us at neoautismgroup@.... We look forward to your support!

Social Times Magazine, Poster available from APC

What does kissing under the mistletoe, standing too close to a classmate, and feeling embarrassed have in common? They all, in some way, play a role in social skills development. Students with social cognitive disorders need social skills training just as much as they need math, reading, and writing classes. However, it is difficult to integrate this much-needed training into already full schedules. In addition, many of the social skills programs available do not offer lessons that are relevant to the lifestyles of students today. Students find them outdated or simply boring.Volume 1Code 9300$48.00 DOWNLOAD THE SOCIAL TIMES5,315 Kb — .PDF Format

Using a magazine format in full color and with standard columns in each issue, The Social Times is written directly to students in their "voice." Each issue offers critical information all the while making each lesson entertaining and applicable to the lives and concerns of today's students.In its premiere volume, The Social Times addresses topics such as friendship, body language, anxiety, controlling feelings, etc. Volume 1 is composed of 7 issues. For more information, click here.

The 5-Point Scale and Anxiety Curve Poster by Kari Dunn Buron and Mitzi Curtis $21.95 November 2008Audience (i.e. age, profession) Parents Teachers Related professionals

Teachers and parents constantly find themselves correcting and teaching appropriate behaviors -- everything from talking too loud to acting totally inappropriately. The 5-Point Scale and Anxiety Curve Poster helps erase the need for parents and teachers to remind students to check their behavior by empowering students to self-regulate. This 24x36" full-color, dual-sided, erasable poster is the perfect visual support to accompany the bestselling Incredible 5-Point Scale by the same authors.This unique poster may be individualized for a single student or a group. Poster includes an instructional booklet with suggestions for use, plus 36 multicolor, dual-sided clip-tabs that can be personalized and moved up and down the scale, as needed. For more information, click here.

Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council December Newsletter

For the complete newsletter, click here

Next of Kin Registration Now Available to Ohioans ODPS and Ohio BMV launch first of its kind system COLUMBUS – Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS) Director Henry Guzmán, Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Registrar Mike Rankin and Rep. Jim McGregor today announced the launch of Ohio’s Next of Kin Registration System. Carmella Wiant and Wuestenberg, who were instrumental in initiating legislation for the system, joined them in the Atrium of the BMV to sign the first ceremonial forms for the new registration system. Both were personally impacted by not being able to reach a loved one in a timely manner after a crash. With the launch, Ohio became one of the first states to make a next of kin registration process available. Any holder of a valid Ohio driver license, commercial driver license, temporary permit or state of Ohio identification card will now have the option of providing the name and information of a contact person they wish to be notified in the event the individual is involved in a crash or emergency and is otherwise unable to communicate with the contact person. “In an emergency situation, time is critical to saving lives,†Guzmán said. “This is yet another way we can all work together to be prepared to respond, or help the public respond, to any emergency.†Ohioans can now provide next of kin information for up to two contacts online or through any BMV deputy registrar. For those over the age of 18, the contact person can be a nearby relative, friend or co-worker. Those under the age of 18 are required to provide a parent or guardian for the primary contact. This secure database will only be accessible to BMV employees and law enforcement officials. “We are encouraging all Ohioans to take advantage of this beneficial opportunity, to save time when trying to identify family and friends of a crash victim,†said Rankin. For more information on the Next of Kin registration process, log onto the BMV Web site at www.bmv.ohio.gov.

Contact: Lindsey Bohrer, Public Information Officer

(614) 752-6585

Special Needs Adaptive Programming/Sports Urbancrest

Southwest Community Center Address: 3500 First Avenue Urbancrest, OH 43123 Youth open gyms * Fridays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. * Begins Friday, Jan.9 * Southwest Community Center * Free for members; $4/child or $10/ family for NM Open gym time will be available for children with special needs and their siblings on Friday nights from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Southwest Community Center. Basketballs, mats, Frisbees, soccer balls and other equipment will be available. This casual series will be monitored by YMCA staff, but parents are welcome. Adaptive swim lessons * Saturdays, 11 a.m. - noon * Begins Saturday, Jan. 10, lasts 7 weeks * Southwest Community Center * Available for 6-12 year olds * Free for members, $10 for NM Swimmers of all abilities are encouraged to try adaptive swimlessons. Children between six to 12 years old will learn basic strokes from specially trained instructors. Gain confidence in and out of thewater with this seven week program. Classes are scheduled on Saturdays from11 a.m.-noon at the Southwest Community Center. Open art classes * Mondays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. * Begins Monday, Jan. 5, lasts 7 weeks * Southwest Community Center * $20 for members, $30 for NM Art classes for special needs children and their families willfeature unique projects that will vary each week. Mediums will include, butare not limited to, clay, paint, drawing, sculpture and mixed media.Explore your creative side on Mondays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Coming Soon! Baseball, soccer, dance and moreInterested in volunteering? Contact Grove City Parks and Recreationat 614-277-3050 or Southwestern Community YMCA at 614-539-1770.

ASPIES Greater Akron Adult Support Group(Support group for those 18 years old and older with a diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, or PDD/NOS) Thursday, January 8th 7:00-9:00 pm presents Bonnie Susko of Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation("Are you eligible for services?") Meetings are held at the Considine Professional Building (across from Akron Children’s Hospital Main Entrance) Rooms 5 & 6 (2nd floor / Street level) For further information, contactJoy Spencer 330-745-5115 Rreindeer@...

ARC Lucas County offers New Programs

What Next?: 2009 Life Skills Series Click here

Next Chapter Book Clubs - Click here

ASPIES Greater Akron Parent's Support GroupSupport Group assisting parents of children withAsperger Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, and PDD-NOSpartnering with ASA-Greater Akron Chapter invites you to join us in an Open Forum Parent discussion - Parent chosen topics/questions(Short video may be offered to get ideas flowing.) Tuesday, January 20th6:30 - 8:30 pm Considine Professional Building 2 Perkins Square, Akron 44308(across from Akron Children’s Hospital Main Entrance)Floor 2 - Rooms 5 & 6 (Childcare not provided.) For further info, contact Joy Spencer by phone 330-745-5115 or e-mail Rreindeer@...

TV News Feature: Medina family partners with schools to take on food allergies

http://www.wkyc.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=101772

Article from s Law: Who is Eligible for Special Ed? Having a disability does not automatically qualify a child for special education services. Passing grades do not automatically disqualify a child for special education services. To read more on "Who IS Eligible for Special Ed?" from s Law, go to:

http://www.wrightslaw.com/nltr/08/nl.1216.htm

Article: Goals for the Next Year

Used with permission from:

, Perspectives Social Learning, LLC

13703 Green Prairie, Vicksburg MI, 49097

269-720-1435

www.socialperspectives.com

January 1, 2009

As this is the time for resolutions and new goals for the upcoming year, consider some new routines that may create opportunities for social growth. Here are some ideas to consider:

To increase comfort initiating interaction with familiar/unfamiliar people - Saying “hi†to a different person each day – teens may expand this by going beyond known people to community workers, teachers or instructors and/or neighbors.

To increase awareness of feelings/emotions - Focus on a different “feeling†each week starting with very basic and strong emotions and moving on to more subtle or less common expressions. Explore pictures of facial expressions, phrases or idioms one might use in relation to these emotions, and discuss scenarios or experiences in which someone may experience these emotions.

Social decision making - Dinnertime problem solving- at the dinner table discuss a social situation that occurred during the day. Take turns having each person contribute on different days. Discuss the social implications of actions and other possible solutions or outcomes.

Finding qualities in others that may be different yet admirable - Keep an appreciation journal. List as many people with at least one admirable quality.

Think of other ways that you can regularly work on some aspect of social thinking throughout the next year!

Milestones (Cleveland Area) Latest Newsletter

Milestones 2009 Autism / Asperger's Conference, Landerhaven, Mayfield Ohio, June 15, requesting proposals for: Concurrent Sessions, Poster Displays and Panel DiscussionsDownload Proposal Guidelines and Requirements (Deadline January 16th!)Current NewsTwelve Tips for Teacher's working with children with Autism Spectrum DisorderActivities for Downtime and other great articles.Social Groups for 2009 in the Cleveland/ Akron area

Autistic Self Advocacy Network starts online group for teens with autismThe Rich Center's Interactive Courses on Autism and Asperger's SyndromeInteractive Autism Network... share, research, and discoverJob Listing and Postings- Please email milestonesorg@... with new information to be posted.Ohio Children's Buy-In (CBI) program- CBI is a public health insurance program available to certain children in Ohio. Families can apply online. Milestones Family Workshops 2009

Family Workshop: Basic ABA Principles to use in the Home

Date: Monday, January 12, 2009

Location: Streetsboro Public Library, Streetsboro, OH

Time: 5:30 pm- 7:30 pm

Cost: FREE (sponsored by Alpha Xi Delta, Kent State University)

Please register in case of weather cancellation and handout availability

216-371-4765 or milestonesorg@...

Audio Podcast Available

Family and Professional Workshop: Basic ABA and Being Proactive with Behaviors

This workshop is for family members, caregivers, tutors or others interested in learning basic ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) strategies to use in the home.

These effective strategies are for children of all ages with pervasive developmental disorders, autism spectrum disorders and asperger's syndrome. ABA is a system for teaching which breaks skills down into discrete steps. Skills are taught through motivation, errorless learning, and reinforcement. Basic ABA topics include: Applied Behavior Analysis overview, Identifying student goals, ABA tools and techniques; establishing attending, motivation and reinforcement, prompting, task analysis, discrete trials, and using observations. Being Proactive with Behavior topics include: Identifying behaviors, Being proactive and Encouraging positive behaviors and Reducing inappropriate behaviors.

Two dates and locations:

Date: Sunday, January 11, 2009 Location: Mahoning County Help Me Grow 100 DeBartolo Pl. Suite 220 , Boardman, OH 44512 Time: 3:00 pm- 6:00 pmCost: FREE (sponsored by Mahoning Help Me Grow)

Date: Sunday, January 25, 2009

Location: Metro Hospital, Rammelkamp, Room 170 (near the main atrium), Cleveland, OHTime: 1:30 pm- 4:30 pmCost: FREE (sponsored by Metro Health Hospital)

Must register: call 216-371-4765 or email milestonesorg@...

Autism Workshops for Families: Adolescent to Adult Series

Supporting Adolescents and Adults: Using Schedules for Leisure Skills and Self Help Skills

Topics: Learn how to create and implement pre-adolescent to adult schedules to promote leisure and self help skills for independence. Date: Sunday, January 18 , 2009Location: Strongsville Civic Center, Strongsville, OH Time: 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm Cost: $30 per person or $45 for two family members/caregivers- Respite care available for first 15 registrants (at location)

Transition Planning for After High School: Part I

Participants will learn the requirements of the federal law (IDEIA) related to transition planning and transition services for students with disabilities Participants will understand the importance of creating specific and meaningful future planning statements for the student with ASD (or other disabilities) Participants will be able to write meaningful post-secondary education, employment, and/or independent living goals for their child/student Participants will begin to identify transition services that are likely to lead to successful adult outcomes following high school

Date: Sunday, February 8, 2009Time: 1:30-4:30 pmLocation: TBA

Transition Planning for Adulthood: Part II

Participants will learn about the eligibility requirements for MRDD, BVR, SSI, and Medicaid Participants will become familiar with the types of services or supports that are available through a variety of adult agencies Participants will learn what skills are necessary for successful employment Participants will discuss how to access adult services and supports........what is required as well as ideas to enhance the process

Date: Sunday, March 8, 2009Time: 1:30-4:30 pmLocation: TBA

Cost for all workshops: $30 per person per workshop or $45 for two family members/caregivers per workshop

Professional Development Credit and Scholarships Available for all Milestones ProgramsFOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER:Contact Kiersten at 216-3714765 or milestonesorg@...

SAVE THE DATEMilestones 2009 Autism / Asperger's Conference, Landerhaven, Mayfield Ohio, June 15, 2009Requesting Proposals for:

Concurrent Sessions

Poster Displays

Panel Discussions

Download Proposal Guidelines and Requirements

Support Group PresentationMilestones would like to come out to your support group to share resources and present a topic with question and answer time. If you are interested, contact Kiersten at 216-371-4765. Presentation time: One hour Cost: No fee

Milestones Autism ResourcesPlease continue to visit our website to find:Adult ResourcesABA Consultants/Tutors *UPDATED*Educational Advocates Medical Resources Upcoming Local EventsSocial Groups all ages *UPDATED*Local Parent Support Groups Recreation Programs Job Listings and Postings Local Speech (SLP) and Occupational Therapist Local Dental and Vision Local ResourcesUpcoming EventsFamily Friendly- Kids welcome!Milestones Active Calendar 2008

January 2009

Family January 2, After New Years Party - Potluck Dinner and Movie for Teen to Adults (Cleveland Support Group) 6:00 - 9:00 pm. Beachwood Community Center, 25225 Fairmount Blvd. Cost: $4.00 (paid at the door). Please bring a main course, appetizer or dessert. Come have dinner and watch the movie Darius Goes West ON THE BIG SCREEN! Darius Goes West is a powerful documentary about the road trip of a lifetime. Please RSVP to Judi Greenspan at 216-932-1989 or email jgreenspan@....

January 8, "Are you eligible for services?" (Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation and ASPIES Greater Akron Adult Support Group) FREE 7:00-9:00 pm. Considine Professional Building (across from Akron Children's Hospital Main Entrance)Rooms 5 & 6. For more information, contact Joy Spencer at 330-745-5115 or Rreindeer@....January 12, Family Workshop: Basic ABA Principles to use in the Home (Milestones Autism Organization) FREE 5:30 pm- 7:30 pm. Streetsboro Public Library, Streetsboro, OH. Please register in case of weather cancellation and handout availability at 216-371-4765 or milestonesorg@...

January 18, Family Workshop: Using Schedules for Leisure Skills and Self Help Skills - Pre-adolescent to Adult (Milestones Autism Organization) 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm. Strongsville Civic Center, Strongsville, OH. Cost: $30 per person or $45 for two family members/caregivers. Group Discounts/Scholarships Available and respite care available for first 15 registrants (at location)Register at 216-371-4765 or milestonesorg@...

January 21, Tri Autism Group Special Guest Speakers (Tri-Autism Group) FREE 7:00 pm. Hampton Inn, 6690 Ironwood Boulevard Canfield, OH. Barb Yavorcik, Co-President Autism Society of Ohio and Henry, Executive Director Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence(OCALI) will be giving an update on statewide issues related to autism and resources available. Please plan to attend this informative meeting. For more information, visit www.triautism.com.

January 25, Family and Professional Workshop: Basic ABA and Being Proactive with Behaviors (Milestones Autism Organization) FREE 1:30 pm- 4:30 pm. Metro Hospital, Rammelkamp, Room 170 (near the main atrium), Cleveland, OH. This workshop is for family members, caregivers, tutors or others interested in learning basic ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) strategies to use in their home. These effective strategies are for children of all ages with pervasive developmental disorders, autism spectrum disorders and asperger's syndrome. Sponsored by Metro Health Hospital. Register at 216-371-4765 or milestonesorg@....

Save the Date

February 4, Access to the General Education for All (The Arc of Greater Cleveland, State Support Team 3, and The Up Side of Downs of Greater Cleveland) Doubletree Hotel Independence, OH. The conference will feature Dr. A. Villa, Ed.D. Dr. Villa will be presenting on various topics including Inclusion for Kids with Disabilities in the General Education Classroom, Differentiated Instruction, Adapting Curriculum, and more. For more information contact Mitchner at 216-622-0755 or download flier.

February 12-May 7, Sibshops of Children with Autism (Monarch School) Please view flier for more information. Contact Karin Hess-Hopkins for more information at 216-320-8658.

Have you purchased your Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate yet? To purchase yours, visit www.oplates.com and click on "Specialty Plates" or visit the website at www.autismohio.org for more information. ASO forming Ohio Autism Advocacy Network - Join Now!Event Links

www.milestones.orgwww.toolsfortoday.orgwww.autismohio.orgPlease contact us at 216-371-4765 or infomilestones@....

ASAN starts online group for teens with autism

Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN):

Dora Raymaker (moderator) dora@... mailto:dora@...ASANTeens

A new group has just been created to be open exclusively for adolescents and teens on the autism spectrum, offering an opportunity for autistic adolescents and teens to interact in a supportive, autistic-friendly internet environment. It is sponsored by the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network, an international non-profit organization run by and for autistic adults and youth, working to advance neurodiversity, disability rights and autistic culture.

Group Rules:1. To join you must be on the autism spectrum (self-diagnosed individuals are welcome) and at least 13 years of age.2. Be respectful of your fellow list members.3. Do not repost messages outside of the list.4. If you have a question, feel free to ask.5. Do not engage in personal attacks against other list members.

The list will be closely moderated by adults from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network to ensure that all list content remains legal, age-appropriate, free of spam and solicitation, and in compliance with the group rules.

Article: Realistic Resolutions - 31 Parenting Resolutions to Transform Your Child, Your Family, Yourself

http://specialchildren.about.com/od/needinspiration/tp/parentingresolutions.htm

The First International Conference on Autism Spectrum Disorders, Focusing on Biomedical and Other Treatments

Presented by The American Medical Autism Board (AMAB®) and C. DeMio, MD

Offering hope to individuals and families

Ethical Unbiased Presentations

General Sessions

Sessions for Physicians and other Healthcare Professionals

Feb. 20-22, 2009,

Crown Plaza Hotel

Novi, MI/Metro Detroit area

Topics to be presented:

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD’s): not psychiatric or “just behavioralâ€

What is Biomedical Treatment? Concepts and daily use for ASD’s.

Hyperbaric treatments: When & how to do it right

Complimentary and alternative treatments for ASD’s Alternatives to the alternatives: controversies and division within the biomedical autism community

Methyl-B12 update: how to maximize the outcome

Parents’ recovery stories of their ASD children

Nutritional supplements in ASD’s: State of the art

Unique effective therapy techniques for improving your child/loved one’s outcome

Immunologic treatments for yeast, viruses, and other pathogens, with an update of the curcumin protocol

Principles and implementation of special diets for ASD’s & other developmental disorders

The technique of Neuroreorganization

Biomedical treatments for behavioral problems in adoptive children

Biofilm issues in ASD treatments

Update on vaccines: risks vs. effectiveness

Immediate strategies you can start today to help your Child/loved one with ASD

School/IEP rights and issues

Practitioner Clinical Overview Course

And much, much more

Speakers and panel members include:

Bockmann, parent advocate

DeMio, MD

Elliot, DO

Dr. Don Galovich, DC, Chriopractic Physician

Selby

Boyd Haley,

PhD Jerry Kartzinel, MD

Raun Kaufman, Autism Treatment Center of America

Bette Lamont, MA/DMT

Poirier Keenan, DC, Chiropractic Physician

Mackenzie, Certified Family Nurse Practitioner

Neubrander, MD

Tocco, vaccine & natural health speaker

Woodward, Physician to Parent Liaison

and other exciting acclaimed speakers in ASD-related fields.

Special Guest speaker: Heidi Scheer, Mrs. Michigan United States, Parent of an ASD child, Advocate, Mentor

See updates and more information at asdboards.com. Speakers subject to change

Who Should Attend:

Parents/Grandparents Persons living with ASD’s

Family & Caregivers

MD’s & DO’s

Chiropractors

RN’s, LPN’s, & NP’s, & Clinical Nurse Specialists

Psychologists

Naturopaths

Homeopaths

Educators and Administrators

Speech/Language Pathologists and Therapists

Registration Fees:

General two-day session Fri.-Sat, Feb. 20-21, 2009, designed for everyone to attend: $169.00 for general public, US currency. $199.00 for professionals/AMAB credits, US currency

Or, any one General session day: $99.00 general public, $119.00 professionals/AMAB credits, US currency.

Practitioners’ one-day Biomedical Overview Course/AMAB credits Sun., Feb. 22, 2009, MD’s, DO’s: $299.00, US currency.

Practitioners attending entire three days: special pricing of $429.00, US currency.

Other healthcare professionals/students enrolled in professional school $229 Sun., Feb. 22nd Overview Course/$359 all three days, US currency.

**See www.asdboards.com for cancellation policy.

Special pricing for all attendees on hotel rates on site at the lovely Crown Plaza Conference Facility, Novi, MI: $89/night, US currency. Mention our conference. Rooms are limited.

The American Medical Autism Board or AMAB® is a non-profit organization, the first and only entity to board-certify MD’s & DO’s in the specialty of Biomedical Treatment of the Autism Spectrum Disorders

www.asdboards.com

320 Orchardview Ave., Suite Two

Seven Hills, OH 44131

C. DeMio, MD is a parent of a child with autism, Biomedical Treatment Physician, Founder of the American Medical Autism Board, and Chief Medical Officer of the US Autism & Asperger Association.

January Meeting of the Cleveland Area Biomedical Support Group

When?

January 27th at 6:30

Where?

Independence Public Library

Topic:

Hauserman will be managing the meeting in January for me. The meeting topic will be a bit eclectic but Fun!

Hauserman will give a short presentation on The Why's and Wherefore's of Epsom Salt Baths along with a recipe for making your own body cream if you don't have time for those baths. Sometimes we wonder how this detox method is working with other biochemical processes.

is also bringing price and product comparison lists for Gluten/Dairy Free products from Trader Joes, and a few other local stores. So your homework will be done for you and we can talk about products we like.

Also, we will discuss making your own 'Green' chemical free household cleaning products from what you have in your own cupboard.

Last but not least, we will have the Representative from Discovery Toys come in and demo this award winning educational line of toys, which are often used to teach children with developmental needs. Per your request, H. will e-mail you a flyer with information on Discovery Toys January sale items - something there for most ages. If you aren't familiar, you can take a look at their website which is laid out by interest area, language development,

We can go to Winking Lizzard nearby after the meeting which we hope to conclude at the library by 8:15 so the evening won't get too late.

Please email H. with any questions regarding this particular meeting in January at alyricss@... or call 440-708-2067.

Mark your calendar for some other upcoming dates!

January 22 - Funding Sources for Autism - Workshop, organized by NAA-NEO, presented by lin Hickman, from Hickman & Lowder LLP. Independence Public Library, 6:30 to 8:45 pm. More information to be announced soon.

February 17 - Do not miss this workshop - just in time before taxes!! What expenses may be taxable for families raising a child or children with special needs? - Independence Public Library, 6:30 to 8:45 pm. More information to be announced soon.

Sincerely,

Pattison

National Autism Association - Northeast Ohio (NAA-NEO) Helping Hand Program Manager P. O. Box 221195 Beachwood, OH 44122 E-mail: apattison@... Phone (216)544-1231 Web: www.autismnortheastohio.org

Dayton Aspergers Resource Network Meeting, January 5th

General Meeting InformationDARN meetings are usually scheduled for the 1st Monday of each month except when there is a National Holiday on or close to the first Monday of the month (ie. New Years, Memorial Day weekend, Independence Day weekend, and Labor Day weekend). When this occurs, we advance the meetings to the following Monday. Our meeting are from 7:00 to 8:30 at Christ United Methodist Church (CUMC) located at 3340 Shroyer Road in Kettering, OH (adjacent to the Fraze Pavilion, Fairmont High School, Kettering Municipal Building). CUMC‚s contact information is 293-3151 and <http://www.Christumc.org/>.Parents, family, professionals, adult individuals with Asperger Syndrome (AS), and mature youths with AS are all welcome to join our discussions which cover issues and concerns related to AS, PDD-NOS, High Functioning Autism (HFA), and related disorders.Sincerely,Audrey Schilb(937) 433 - 4505Dayton Asperger Resource Network (DARN)Email: daytonasperger@...Website: http://darngroup.tripod.com/New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines.