ASA-ASO DIGEST: March 9, 2009

[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:

- Autism Insurance Coverage Bill HB 8 Introduced, Hearings Scheduled

- Join us March 31, April 1 for Disability (including Autism) Public Policy Legislative Event and Rally, Make appointments with your legislators Now!

- OCALI to hold Ohio Autism Conference in November

- ODMRDD to pull proposed Provider Certification rule and Re-File at a later Date

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

- Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

- Federal Update/Alerts

From the ASA: Urge Congress to support Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2009

President Signs Legislation to Double IDEA Funding: CEC and Special Educators Land Historic

Victory

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- ASA-Greater Cincinnati organizing Bus for statehouse Rally

- FEAT of GC and ASA-Greater Cincinnati Chapter to host Dr. Carbone

- FEAT of Greater Cincinnati and ASA-Greater Cincinnati present The First Annual Bud Newsom Spring Conference

- Upcoming Seminars from ASA-Northwest Ohio Chapter, Toledo

- ASA-Dayton Chapter to hold Autism Walk April 4

- ASA-TRI COUNTY CHAPTER OF OHIO MARCH MEETING NOTICE, Youngstown

- Seminar: A Walk Through the IEP, Toledo

- Competition for Young Artists with Disabilities

- Article: Q-and-A: How to better manage behavioral disabilities

- Article: Study links gene variant to autism, gastrointestinal problems

- Article: Does music help students with autism?

- Seneca County Autism Family Support Group

- News from Ohio Department of Education-Office for Exceptional Children

- Upcoming Trainings in Boardman, OH and PA

- Grants for Summer Programs

- Winter edition of the DD Quarterly now Available!

- The Ninth Annual Multiple Perspectives on Access, Inclusion, and Disability Change, Challenge, & Collaboration, Columbus

- Milestones 2009 Autism / Asperger's Conference, Cleveland

- Autism Forum 2009, N. Canton

- Article: IACC Advisory Panel Releases First Federal Strategic Plan for Autism Research

- Columbus Hosts Center for Self Determination Training

- Conference Call about Child and Adolescent Mental Health Issues

- Online Support Group - Moms of Asperger Girls

- Upcoming Events NE Ohio

- 7th Annual Protecting Ohio's Children Conference

- Special Education Seminar, Cleveland

- Article: Tax Strategies for Parents of Children with Special Needs

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". CHECK OUT NEW LISTINGS AND OPPORTUNITIES!

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:

Autism Insurance Coverage Bill HB 8 Introduced, Hearings Scheduled

The Autism Insurance Coverage Bill has been introduced in the Ohio House!

Currently in Ohio, insurance companies can exclude autism services and treatments from coverage. This puts an increased burden on families, schools, and the state support system. Autism is a medical condition and treatments for autism should be covered the same as the treatment for other medical conditions.

Representatives Ted Celeste (D-Columbus) and Garland (D-Columbus) have introduced an autism insurance coverage bill in the Ohio House of Representatives – HB8. HB8 is currently under consideration by the Ohio House Healthcare Access and Affordability Committee, chaired by Rep. Lorraine Fende.

The first hearing for the newly introduced Autism Insurance Coverage Legislation - HB 8 - has been scheduled before the House Healthcare Access and Affordability Committee on March 11th at 4pm in Rm. 113 of the Statehouse. This will be the only bill under consideration at this hearing.

Bill Sponsors Reps. Celeste and Garland will be testifying that day. ASA-ASO and an alliance of other interested parties have come together to work collaboratively to pass autism insurance coverage in Ohio and the alliance has arranged for other proponents to testify that day as well. But your help is also needed! Filling the hearing room with supporters of HB 8 will send a strong message to members of the committee, so if you are able to do so, please attend the hearing and show your support for Reps. Celeste and Garland and HB 8.

HB 8 is a priority bill for the House Democrats so additional hearings on HB 8 are likely to be scheduled within the next several weeks. ASA-ASO will send out alerts as additional hearings are scheduled.

The ASA-Autism Society of Ohio has created a web page devoted exclusively to Autism Insurance Coverage. Click here to visit. It contains complete information on Autism Insurance Coverage and HB 8.

Join us March 31, April 1 for Disability (including Autism) Public Policy Legislative Event and Rally

Disability Public Policy Legislative Event and Rally - March 31, April 1

This event is sponsored, in part, by the ASA-Autism Society of Ohio! The Rally on April 1st is a joint rally with the greater DD community and the Autism Community to show collaboration and solidarity on budget issues.

Join us on March 31st and April 1st as the Ohio Disability Community rallies together for change! The growing list of sponsors will be distributed in our next mailing, but we wanted you to have a chance to register today. This event is free for Ohioans with disabilities and their families and only $89 for professionals. You need not register for the Rally on April 1st, which will be the first joint MR/DD and Autism Rally, but you do need to register for March 31st. Attached is registration information. The Voice of One –The Power of Manyâ€Disability Public Policy Legislative Event and Rally March 31 – April 1, 2009 PRELIMINARY PROGRAM Tuesday, March 31, 2009 Legislative DayHyatt on Capitol Square/Columbus75 East State St.Columbus, OH 43215 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Registration (includes Continental Breakfast)10:00 a.m. – Noon Opening Session: Noon – 1:30 p.m. Awards Luncheon Featuring Guest Speaker1:45 – 4:45 p.m. Breakout Sessions/Workshops5:00 – 6:30 p.m. Cocktail Reception for Legislators, Staff & the Administration Bill Hoskett, Jr., a member of The OSU Hall of Fame, will deliver the Keynote Address. This team leader will provide a motivational presentation on the teamwork we need to succeed in public policy advocacy. The morning will also include a “State of the State†Address from Doug Lumpkin, Director of the Ohio Dept of Job and Family Services, Director of the Ohio Dept or MR/DD and Kathe Shelby, Ph.D., Director of the Ohio Office of Exceptional Children. Afternoon Breakout Sessions will include more detailed information on how to support, serve, and enhance the lives of Ohioans with Disabilities and their families. –More details forthcoming. Wednesday, April 1, 2009 RallyOhio Statehouse – Statehouse Lawn, West Plaza (High St.) Join with hundreds of individuals with disabilities, family members, advocates, providers, county staff and support personnel to present a united voice. Call your state legislator now and make an appointment to visit them and express your views directly. 11:00 a.m. – 12:00p.m. Disability Public Policy Legislative Rally – Exhibit Tables open at 10:30 a.m.All Day Scheduled Individual Legislative Appointments Make your appointments now as legislators schedules will be filling up quickly. If you need help making an appointment with your Representative or Senator, contact the ASA-ASO for help at askASO@...

To register, contact the ARC of Ohio at arcohio@...

OCALI to hold Ohio Conference in November

The Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) is pleased to announce the 2009 Autism and Low Incidence Disabilities Conference and Exposition, November 18-19, 2009, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, OH.OCALI has hosted autism and low incidence disabilities conferences since its inception in 2005, and for 20 years prior when it was known as ORCLISH (Ohio Resource Center for Low Incidence and Severely Handicapped). Over the past two years, OCALI, as a member of ASA's Network of Autism Training and Technical Assistance Programs (NATTAP) organization, has taken the lead in hosting the NATTAP Conference. We are honored to have been a part of this work, and look forward to a continued role as a partner on future NATTAP initiatives and activities.OCALI's mission is to build state- and system-wide capacity to improve outcomes for individuals with autism and low incidence disabilities through leadership, training and professional development, technical assistance, collaboration, and technology. The 2009 OCALI Conference will help advance this mission by focusing on improving programs, implementation, support and overall outcomes for those with ASD and low incidence disabilities (such as hearing impairments, visual impairments, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), orthopedic impairments etc.). Conference participants will have the opportunity to experience high-quality professional development and networking opportunities with peers and leaders in the areas of education, interagency collaboration and continuum of services. We've built a strong platform at OCALI, and are excited and honored to continue our work on effecting system-wide improvements in Ohio, across the nation and the globe in both ASD and low incidence disabilities. More information about the 2009 OCALI Conference and Exposition will be released soon. The Call for Proposals and Conference Registration will open in April 2009. Information will be posted at www.ocali.org.

ODMRDD to pull proposed Provider Certification rule and Re-File at a later Date

A new concern was recently expressed regarding the cost of implementing the provider background check requirements for renewal certification in paragraph ©(2)(d) of the proposed new Provider Certification rule . Therefore, ODMRDD has designated the rule “To Be Refiled,†while we work out new language around background checks. Designating the rule “To Be Refiled†has had the effect of removing the rule from the March 9th Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR) agenda. The rule will be rescheduled for a JCARR agenda after it has been refiled. For more information, visit http://www.odmrdd.state.oh.us/rules/development.htm#TBRRules

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

The Ohio Budget is currently under development and autism insurance parity legislation is ready to be re-introduced in the Ohio House. 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 ASA-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

From the ASA: Urge Congress to support Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2009

The Autism Society of America is pleased to support the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2009, ("ABLE" Act), S. 493/H.R. 1205. This legislation was recently introduced by Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Burr (R-NC), Kennedy (D-MA) and Sam Brownback (R-KS) in the Senate and the House companion bill was introduced by Reps. Ander Crenshaw (R-FL), Kennedy (D-RI), Mc Rodgers (R-WA) and Kendrick Meek (D-FL). This critically important piece of legislation has the potential to help improve the lives of allaffected by autism.This legislation is designed to encourage individuals with autism (andother disabilities) and their families to save for disability-relatedexpenses and will supplement, rather than to replace, benefitsprovided by other sources such as Medicaid and private healthinsurance coverage. The ABLE Act authorizes "ABLE Accounts," which are similar in many respects to existing Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) and 529 college savings plans. Provided certain rules are met, these disability savings accounts will be exempt from federal taxation.Families of individuals affected by autism often find themselves in aposition of financial frustration. Our families want nothing but the best for our children and we are often faced with astronomical expenses in connection with providing appropriate services.To help improve the lives of all affected by autism, simply take a moment and visit http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=0zjC4gkgh4yNhj_Wsy3EKw.. to send an email to Congress today.The time for action is NOW! Urge your U.S. Senators and Representativeto co-sponsor the Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2009,("ABLE" Act), S. 493/H.R. 1205Thank you for your support.Sincerely,Lee GrossmanPresident & CEOAutism Society of America | 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 300 | Bethesda,land 20814-3067Get Involved: www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=getinvolved_homeSupport/Join: www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=join_homeMake a donation Today: www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=donate_home About Us: www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=asa_homeContact Us: www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=asa_contact

President Signs Legislation to Double IDEA Funding: CEC and Special Educators Land Historic Victory

Article from the Council for Exceptional Children: http://www.cec.sped.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=CEC_Today1 & TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm & CONTENTID=11794

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc.:

ASA-Greater Cincinnati organizing Bus for statehouse Rally

Complete details on this and other activities in their latest newsletter:

http://www.autismcincy.org/pdf/current_newsletter.pdf

FEAT of GC and ASA-Greater Cincinnati Chapter to host Dr. Carbone

FEAT of GC and ASA-Greater Cincinnati Chapter are officially bringing Dr. Carbone to Cincinnati October 16th and 17th, 2009. Further information to be coming soon. Please visit his website at drcarbone.com

FEAT of Greater Cincinnati and ASA-Greater Cincinnati present The First Annual Bud Newsom Spring ConferenceDrake Conference Center, Date: April 18th Time: 8am-4pm

For complete details, visit: http://www.autismcincy.org/pdf/Bud%20Newsome%20conference%20%5BConverted%5D.pdf

Upcoming Seminars from ASA-Northwest Ohio Chapter

Understanding Your Rights: Whose IDEA is This?†will be held on March 11 and 12 at the Toledo Hospital Education Center Auditorium, with Lynn Mielnik, M.S., CCC-SLP. Lynn will cover parents' rights under special education law including changes that were made to Operating Standards for Ohio Educational Agencies serving Children with Disabilities in July 2008. Lynn Mielnik is the State Support Team Region 1 (formerly the SERRC) associate director of special education services. She serves as a resource for staff, districts, and parents in Region 1 in the areas of special education compliance, school improvement, universal design for learning, and assistive technology. She has over 25 years of professional expertise in the areas of education, special education, and speech pathology and audiology.

“7 Evidence-Based Strategies for an Effective Early Intervention Program†will be held on March 25 at the Toledo Hospital Croxton Memorial Auditorium and March 26 at the Lucas County Board of MR/DD Family First Zone, presented by Dr. Ball. This presentation will discuss seven systematic techniques for working with children with an autism spectrum disorder. It will focus on teaching specific skills, enhancing motivation, and generalization training. A step-by-step demonstration will be presented using real life examples. Modifications will be explored that allow this particular program to be effective with students significantly challenged with autism, as well as those students with Asperger Syndrome. Myths and facts about Applied Behavior Analysis will also be covered. A question and answer period will be provided. Dr. Ball a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, is the President/CEO of JB Autism Consulting. He provides private consultation to organizations, schools, and families regarding staff training, parent training, home support services, classroom design/support, and behavior management/assessment. A past member of the Autism Society of America Board of Directors, he is currently co-chairperson of the ASA Panel of Professional Advisors.

“A Land We Can Shareâ€: Access to the Literate Community for ALL†will be held on April 1 and 2 at the Education Center Auditorium, with a Kluth, Ph.D. presenting. Dr. Kluth will explore how many learners have been excluded from literacy experiences that are inclusive, rich, and challenging. Participants will also learn some strategies for including and supporting students with disabilities in reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities. Ideas for enhancing skills in comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary will be highlighted. Dr. Kluth is a consultant, teacher, author, advocate, and independent scholar who work with teachers and families to provide inclusive opportunities for students with disabilities and to create more responsive and engaging schooling experiences for all learners. She is a former special educator who has served as a classroom teacher, consulting teacher, and inclusion facilitator. Her research and professional interests include differentiating instruction, and supporting students with autism and significant disabilities in inclusive classrooms.

To register, download the registration form at www.asno.org, fill it out, and send it in with payment to Autism Society of Northwest OhioAttn: Workshop Series

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

ASA-Dayton Chapter to Hold Autism Walk April 4

If you haven't started your walk team yet, there's still plenty of time!Visit our walk website:http://www.ASADayton5KWalk.kintera.org tostart your walk team, join a team, or register as an individual! Ifyou can't join us for the walk or are physically unable to walk, no problem!Join as a Virtual walker and still get your free walk t-shirt! This year'sshirt was designed by a 9 year-old with autism and features Winnie thePooh. Click the "order merchandise" link to view his artwork.

WDTN's own Holly s will be our emcee for the day as we welcome MaddieGeorgi, CMT's Music City Madness finalist. Maddie will perform her originalsongs including "Take My Hand" written for her brother, who has autism. Hermusic is amazing! This free concert, as well as the free sensory-friendlychildren's activities and free, special-needs related vendor fair & raffle are well worth coming out for. You do not have to participate in thewalk to enjoy the other festivities!

We have worked very hard to make sure this year's event is even moreorganized and more fun than last year! We will have two huge tents withsides to keep our vendors and concessions warm and dry. Check in andwalk-in registrations will be a breeze. Come prepared for the weather, aswe will walk rain or shine! And bring your sign for our Walk of Fame, whichwill be along the walk route. For more information on the Walk of Fame orany aspect of the walk, visit our walk site or give us a call.

All funds raised stay right here in the Greater Dayton area to help ourfamilies who are living with autism. We will also have informationavailable at our Autism Awareness merchandise booth on our new Family Grantprogram. Stop by and pick up your application packet. Money raised at thewalk will be used to fund our Family Grant, so come on out, support thisgreat cause, and have a great time with your family!

If you have any questions or need printable registration forms, contact at bernofamgmail or 937.859.4964. We are still looking forsponsors and vendors so if you have an autism-related business and want tobe a vendor, please contact us. If your company would like to be a sponsorand get great advertising while they support a great cause, contact ussoon. Our cut-off for the logos on the shirt is March 6th. Please hurry!We need your support!

ASA-TRI COUNTY CHAPTER OF OHIO MARCH MEETING NOTICEMonthly Meeting will be held on THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2009. Our speaker will beElaine Gamberale form Mahoning County Pathways Two. She will update us on comprehensive vocational evaluations for students with disabilities and a new job training program that is in place this year at YSU.MARCH MEETING LOCATION HAS BEEN CHANGED TO: ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH, 3300 CANFIELD RD. IN CORNERSBURG. There will be a business meeting at 6:30 p.m.Speaker presentation will begin promptly at 7:30 p.m.Just a reminder that yearly $10.00 membership dues are now being collected. Dues can be paid at the meeting or via our website.Please visit our website for important information regarding ASA-Tri County Chapter Ohio.www.triautism.com . Meeting, activity and organization information can be found on this site. Please join us Thursday, March 19, 2009Email: TriCounty Autism ASO@...

Seminar: A Walk Through the IEPA Good Learning Opportunity For AllParents - Experienced and NewLearn about the NEW forms Speaker: Beth Rohrbacher, ConsultantState Support Team Region OneTuesday March 31, 20096:30-8:30 p.m. Location: The Ability Center5605 Monroe StSylvania Ohio 43560Sponsored by: The Arc of Lucas County There is no charge for this program.Space is limited.Please Register By:March 26, 2009Phone: 419-882-0941Email: thearc@...Questions? Call 419-882-0941 or www.arclucas.org

Competition for Young Artists with Disabilities VSA Arts and VolkswagenDeadline: June 19, 2009Number of Awards: 3Award: 1st prize: $20,000, 2nd prize: $10,000, 3rd prize: $6,000http://www.vsarts.org/PreBuilt/showcase/gallery/exhibits/vw/current/ The program is open to artists between the ages of 16 and 25 who are living in the United States and who have a physical, cognitive, mental, or sensory disability. Submissions must be original work completed within the last three years and after the onset of disability .Eligible media include, but are not limited to, paintings and drawings (oil, watercolor, acrylic, pencil, or charcoal), fine art prints, photography, computer-generated prints, digital art, and time-based media (video, film). Work must have a visual component. Both representational and abstract work are welcomed.

Article: Q-and-A: How to better manage behavioral disabilitiesBehavioral specialist Deborah Lipsky, who learned to control her own autism and helps schools develop behavior plans, offers advice to educators on improving the behavior of students with disabilities. Negative behavior, she says, is often an attempt to communicate: Meltdowns signal a person's overwhelming frustration, she says, while tantrums are used to manipulate others into changing their behavior. http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2009/03/02/behavior-800-pound-gorilla/2374/

Article: Study links gene variant to autism, gastrointestinal problemsU.S. researchers found that a mutation in the MET gene could play a role in the development of autism and gastrointestinal disorders. However, they did not find a link between the gene variant and patients with autism who lacked gastrointestinal problems. The findings suggest the gene mutation might cause autism in a certain group of people but might not be linked to other types of autism, the study's author said.http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-03-02-autism-gene_N.htm

Article: Does music help students with autism?More parents and educators eager to reach students with autism are embracing music therapy, but little research backs the approach. "We know that music-therapy treatment is associated with improvement, but we don't know what the cause of that improvement is," said University of Michigan psychology professor Lord, who specializes in autism research.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/03/02/AR2009030201759.html?hpid=sec-health

Seneca County Autism Family Support Group Meets at the Early Childhood Center of Fostoria, 801 Kirk Street, Fostoria6:30-8pm Contact Weisenauer for questions at 419-436-1898 April Tuesday April 7th They will be no guest speaker this month. Parent, grandparent, and caregiver support meeting will take place from 6:30-8 p.m. May 5 Tuesday May 5th Services and Supports 6:30-8pmSandy Brickner from OCECD(Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities www.ocecd.org ) Participants will gain an awareness of services and supports that are available to families of children with disabilities from local schools and from state and local agencies. The difference between a service and support will be discussed and participants will learn how to determine what services and supports the child may need by developing an individualized plan. *These will be open to parents, grandparents, professionals, and anyone that has been touched by someone with Autism.*RSVP's are appreciated but not required. *Childcare will be provided in a child friendly atmosphere. For anyone wishing to use this service, we will need the number and age of children one week prior.

News from Ohio Department of Education-Office for Exceptional Children

Whose IDEA Is This? is now available in 5 additional languages and accessible formats Whose IDEA Is This? (Procedural Safeguards Legal Notice) is now available in Arabic, Ukrainian, Spanish, Russian and Somali on our Web site by clicking here and searching for keywords Whose IDEA Is This?. It is also available in accessible formats (e.g. Braille, large print, compact disc or cassette tape) by contacting the Center for Instructional Supports and Accessible Materials (CISAM) at the Ohio State School for the Blind. ODE proposal requests increased federal alternate assessment limit; ODE Request for Exception application available online The U.S. Department of Education has directed Ohio to limit the count of proficient or higher scores on the alternate assessment to 1% of its statewide tested population. Over the last several years, the number of local education agency (LEA) applications and the number of students for which exceptions are being requested have increased significantly. Because of this, it is important to understand that it is likely that the number of students approved for individual LEAs will decrease when compared to the number granted in previous years. In an attempt to assist districts that are using the alternate assessment for greater than 1% of their total tested student population, Ohio is submitting a proposal to the U.S. Department of Education requesting permission to exceed the 1% cap restriction since the 2% modified assessment has not been implemented. There is no guarantee that this proposal will be approved. If the proposal is not approved, the Department will process the requests in a manner that ensures Ohio adheres to the 1% restriction. If the proposal is approved, the state will distribute the additional allotment to LEAs based on the size of the district and nature of the disability conditions of the identified students.. The Request for Exception (RFE) to the Cap on Alternate Assessments for 2008-2009 application can be downloaded from the ODE Web site by clicking here and searching for keywords Request for Exception. This document provides detailed instructions and explains the criteria for reviewing requests, things to know before you apply, and data-submission requirements. If you have questions about the completion of this application, please contact Lindsey Ladd at (614) 752-8731 or Lindsey.ladd@....

Upcoming Trainings in Boardman, OH and PA

My name is Dena Gassner and I am a faculty member for Health EDucation Network out of Minnesota. I can send my bio/cv which will let you know the other things I do.I am writing to let you know of three upcoming opportunities for your families, individuals and providers affected by autism differences. I would greatly appreciate it if you could help "get the word out". TUESDAY APRIL 14WOMEN'S FOCUS GROUP 7:00 PMHOLIDAY INN SOUTH BOARDMAN, OhioThis group will be open to women 18 and up who are living with PDD/ Asperger's (self-identified or diagnosed). The purpose of this event will be to have women talk about their priorities. I would like them to chat about their lives and their futures and what we can do to change what they experienced in the past for future generations.All participants will need to be willing to sign releases allowing us to use their language in written materials (which will be used to formulate programs and research). They do not have to let us use their names.They will also need to agree to allow individual photos (to allow us to maintain records only; not for publication).We are requesting that they participate independently. If they require support, they are welcome to have that assistance, but we request that the support person not speak on behalf of the focus group participant.This is sponsored entirely by my organization, the Center for Understanding. Participants need to contact me directly at dgassner@... WEDNESDAY APRIL 15 HOLIDAY INN BOARDMAN, Ohio ALL DAY TRAINING 8:00-3 HEALTH ED TRAINING"Vulnerabilities in Asperger's Syndrome and Similar Social/Cognitive Challenges" Reservations and fees are available on the health-ed.com website.CEUs are available.

THURSDAY APRIL 16MONROEVILLE, PA COURTYARD ALL DAY TRAINING 8:00-3 HEALTH ED TRAINING"Vulnerabilities in Asperger's Syndrome and Similar Social/Cognitive Challenges" Reservations and fees are available on the health-ed.com website.CEUs are available.

FRIDAY APRIL 17SHERATON FOUR POINTS MARS, Pennsylvania8:00-3 HEALTH ED TRAINING"Vulnerabilities in Asperger's Syndrome and Similar Social/Cognitive Challenges" Reservations and fees are available on the health-ed.com website.CEUs are available.AGAIN FOR THE HEALTH ED TRAINING EVENTS, CONTACT HEALTH-ED.COM. THANKS FOR SPREADING THE WORD! DENA Dena L. Gassner, MSW Program Director The Center for Understanding 7127 Crossroads Blvd. #102 Brentwood, TN 37027 Phone: 1-615-300-3369

Grants for Summer Programs Once again "Individuals Devoted to Educational Advocacy" (IDEA) is providing grants and scholarships for students with special needs for summer programs.. For more information, contact: Sneiderman, President of IDEA Inc.4070 Mayfield Road Cleveland, Oh 44121216-371-9874 They have a limited amount of funds, so please contact them as soon as you can! Deadline for consideration is the end of March. Check out their website at: http://www.ideaohio.org

Winter edition of the DD Quarterly now Available!

Welcome to the Winter edition of the DD Quarterly! Read the newsletter online to learn about issues relevant to Ohioans with disabilities. Articles in this edition cover topics such as ODDC news and announcements, ODDC grantee activities, the statehouse and budget, news from other agencies and organizations, events and more. See below for the list of articles. The DD Quarterly is produced for the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council by the Ohio Legal Rights Service.=========================DD Quarterly - Fall 2008News from the Ohio Developmental Disabilities CouncilText version: http://olrs.ohio.gov/ddq/DDQWinter09.htm PDF version: http://olrs.ohio.gov/ddq/DDQWinter09.pdf =========================In this issue:1. ODDC: Advocating for Change for Over 30 Years2. General Assembly Approves Meeting Options 3. Chairman's Message4. ODDC Receives Positive Approval Rating5. ODDC Announces New Grant Projects for 20096. SOLIDARITY's 10th Anniversary7. Advocacy in Northeast Ohio Grows by LEAPs and Bounds8. Individual and Family Involvement Leads to Better Programs9. Meet ODDC's New Members10. Legislative Event and Rally 11. Tax Benefits and Credits for Qualifying Taxpayers with Disabilities12. Cincinnati UCEDD Supports Leadership Network13. Ohio's Coordinating Center of Excellence in Dual Diagnosis14. Around the Statehouse15. Administration Submits 2010-2011 Budget Bill16. Emergency Management Materials Available 17. ADD Commissioner Retires 18. News from Ohio Legal Rights Service 19. Southeast Ohio Arc Family Members Join Winter Olympics Initiative =========================If you have questions or comments about the DD Quarterly newsletter, contact:Tom HemmertOhio Legal Rights Service50 W. Broad St., Suite 1400Columbus, OH 43215Voice: 614-466-7264 or 800-282-9181TTY: 614-728-2553 or 800-858-3542Email: newsletter@...

The Ninth Annual Multiple Perspectives on Access, Inclusion, and Disability Change, Challenge, & CollaborationApril 28 - 29, 2009The Ohio State University Campus, Columbus Ohiohttp://ada.osu.edu/conferences.htmREGISTRATION IS OPEN The 2009 theme “Change, Challenge & Collaboration†reflects the critical place in history we occupy. The program recognizes contemporary problems and explores their roots while emphasizing the opportunities for innovation and collaboration that reside in our current challenges. Over thirty concurrent sessions including:• Access to the Museum - Georgina Kleege; • The AccessText Information Network - Lee & engo; • Assistive Technology, Web Access, Text Access - Staff, Office for Civil Rights, Dept. of Educaiton; • Public Policy Update: National Council on Disability and World Institute on Disability - Kathleen ez and Wetters;• Disability Studies: Town-Gown Collaborations in Toledo - Jim Ferris; • A Simpler Time?: Managing Workplace Mental Health Issues Post-ADAAA - Finch, A.. Nolan & Sondra Zardus; • The ADA Amendments Act: What Are the Implications? - Staff from the Cleveland Regional Office, US. EEOC; • More than the ADA: An Inventory of U.S. Disability Rights Laws - Doug Goeppne;• Job Coaching Individuals With Autism: Strategies for Employment Skill Development - Jaina Blackford & Lourdes Maldonado; • Housing: Accessible, Affordable and Accommodating to Individuals with Disabilities - Atkinson & Jane ; • New Work in Deaf Studies at OSU - Brueggemann, Marla Berkowitz & Trena Shank; • Writing the Self, Writing the Other: Author, Audience, and Popular Disability Narrative - Hetrick, Krista Paradiso & Yergeau.The 2009 Ken Memorial Lecture on Disability Policy: The public lecture is a highlight of the conference and is free, open to the public. The 2009 lecture, A Perfect Storm: Serving Wounded Warriors With Disabilities, will be presented by D. Grossman, JD, Adjunct Instructor, Hastings College of Law and Lee Vance Ph.D., University of Wisconsin Superior and including short remarks from M. Booth, Trial Attorney, Disability Rights Section, Civil Rights Division, US Department of Justice & L. Lissner, ADA Coordinator, The Ohio State University. Following the lecture there will be a community reception at the Urban Arts Space featuring accessible tours of the MFA Thesis Exhibition and a welcome by Berkeley University lecturer, author and disability studies scholar Georgina Kleege. .“It’s Our Story†is an inside view of the reality of life with a disability. An oral history project that speaks directly from the voices of those who know what it’s like, directly to those who want to know how it is. The over 500 narratives contained within the digital archive has the power to change the way the world sees disability, and the way the disability community sees itself. The Story Flag will be on public display in the Blackwell Hotel Ballroom Lobby on April 28th and 29, 2009 during the Multiple Perspectives Conference. This Exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information on the Story Flag, please visit their website at: http://dmi-us.blogspot.com.

For additional information and registration visit: http://ada.osu.edu/conferences.htm

Milestones 2009 Autism / Asperger's Conferencehttp://www.milestones.org/news_conferences.htmSave the date:Landerhaven, Mayfield Ohio, June 15, 2009Keynote Speaker: Myles, author of The Hidden Curriculumhttp://www.asperger.net/bookstore_9032_HC_package.htm

Autism Forum 2009

presented by Walsh University and SCAAN

Tuesday, March 24, 3009

7:30am-3:00pm

Barrette Business and Community Center

Walsh University

2020 E. Maple St., NW

N. Canton, OH 44720

Lunchtime Keynote, Jon on the Autism Scholarship

For additional information or to register, contact the ARC of Stark County at http://www.arcstark.org/

Article: IACC Advisory Panel Releases First Federal Strategic Plan for Autism Research

http://iacc.hhs.gov/strategic-plan/advisory-panel-releases-first-federal-strategic-plan-for-autism-research.shtml

Columbus Hosts Center for Self Determination Training

From the ODMRDD E-Newsletter Pipeline:

On March 24 and 25, 2009, the nationally-recognized Center for Self Determination will host a training in Columbus titled, “Inventing the Future: Implementing Self Determination Across Disability and Aging.†According to training organizers, Columbus is one of only five locations selected for the training, nationwide. The Center for Self Determination’s website notes that self determination is a way to have people not just survive, but flourish in an environment fraught with potential cutbacks. This two-day training event is designed for people who are committed to helping individuals who are aging or have a disability experience greater freedom as they craft a meaningful life. ODMRDD Director , notes, “We are committed to supporting the efforts of focused self determination initiatives such as this training, and we have seen first-hand the progress that can be made when individuals and families make self determination principles a part of their lives.†The training location is the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Conference Center, 4900 Sinclair Road, Columbus, Ohio, 43229 ( I-71 and Morse Road).. Registration is $149 through March 16, and is $169 after that. To register, please use the registration form on the Center for Self Determination’s website: http://www.centerforself-determination.com/101reg.html

Conference Call about Child and Adolescent Mental Health Issues

Friday, March 20 2009, 11:00am - 12:30pm

An open discussion with Dr. Ken Duckworth, child and adolescent psychiatrist and NAMI’s Medical Director. He will discuss issues of interest to participants and will respond to any questions about child and adolescent mental health issues. We hope that you will join us!To access the toll-free call, please dial 1-888-858-6021; access number 309918#.

Audience: Families

Location: Telephone Conference Call Organization Name: Dr. Ken Duckworth, NAMI Medical Director Contact Name: Dr. Ken Duckworth Contact Phone: To access the toll-free call, please dial 1-888-858-6021; access number 309918#.

Cost: No charge

Online Support Group - Moms of Asperger Girls

To Parents of Girls With AS: I have been helping to moderate a wonderful discussion group called Moms of Asperger Girls. Dads are also welcome. It’s a Group similar to ours, but involves parents from all over the country – a few international. The volume of messages can be high some days, so the “daily digest†setting is recommended to start. If you are the parent of a girl with Asperger’s, please join us at:MomsofAspergerGirls

Upcoming Events, NE Ohio

MARCH Mon., 03-09 ASDs Understanding the Mis-Understood (Wooster) Tues., 03-10 Dealing with Mean Girls - Bullying (Strongsville) Sat., 03-14 Conf for Families of Special Needs Children Sat., 03-14 6th Annual Blue Ribbon (Solon) Sat., 03-14 Sensory Processing (Cleveland) Mon., 03-16 Pump It Up Sensory Night (Medina) Tues., 03-17 ASPIES Greater Akron Parent Support Group (Akron)“Meet & Greet†with A.S.K. (Activity Schedules for all spectrum kids) Bring your kid to group night! Tues., 03-17 Transition Drives the IEP (online audio - OCECD) Thurs., 03-19 Secondary Transition for Children with Disabilities (Middleburg Hts) Mon. thru Thurs., 03-23 to 03-26 Spring Break Discovery Club (Twinsburg) Tues., 03-24 SCAAN Autism Forum (Canton) Tues., 03-31 Deadline for Contest (ages 6-12) Arthur PBS http://pbskids.org/arthur/allkidscan/index.html Tues., 03-31 Special Education Law (Cleveland)

For more information on any of these events, contact Joy Spenser at Rreindeer@...

7th Annual Protecting Ohio's Children Conference Friday, April 3, 2009 The Conference Center at NorthPointe, Center, Ohio

Prevent Child Abuse Ohio is offering its 7th Annual Protecting Ohio's Children Conference on Friday, April 3, 2009 at The Conference Center at NorthPointe in Center, Ohio.

The keynote of the conference is Wynn, Ph.D., Director, Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Nationwide Children's Hospital who will address "Caring for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Managing Stressors."

Additional sessions offered at the conference include:

Taking A Look at Ohio's Safe Haven Law Raise Your Voice

Dental Care and Child Maltreatment Taking A Look at the Collaboration between Two Home Visitation Programs - Help Me Grow and Nurse Family Partnership Parent Panel - Triumphs and Challenges Exploring Unique Aspects of Deafness that Impact Service Provision Childhood Obesity and its Linkage to Child Maltreatment It's All About the Energy: Life Success for Children with Mental Illness Ohio's Alternative Response Journey: A View from Four Counties Looking Out For Children Who Are Visually Impaired or Blind

$120.00 regular registration fee postmarked by Monday, March 23, 2009 $135.00 walk-in registration will be accepted on the day of the conference (on a space available basis)

To view and print a copy of the conference brochure, please visit our website at http://www.pcao.org/programs/pdfs/2009ProtectingOhio'sChildrenConferenceBrochure.pdf.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact Amy , Project Coordinator, at (614) 722-6803 or amy.roberts@....

Special Education Seminar, Cleveland

On March 31, 2009, the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association is hosting a seminar on special education law for parents, professionals and practitioners. This is a full day seminar, and will bring parents and practitioners up to date on various issues of importance and concern. Many members of the special education bar in Cleveland will be presenting, so this seminar provides the opportunity to meet them and ask questions. The cost is only $25.00 for Parents and $65 for Professionals (with CEU) – and includes lunch.Topics include Special Education 101, Improving your Child's Behavior, Due Process, Attorney's Fees and Other Remedies Under IDEA, Remedies for Disability Harassment. Please click on the link below for the Registration Form. We hope you find this information helpful. http://www.admail.net/file/5798/9f09/

Article: Tax Strategies for Parents of Children with Special Needs

http://www.tacanow.org/resources/tax-strategies/tax-strategies-for-parents-of-special-needs-children.htm

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