ASA-ASO DIGEST: March 30, 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

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

- Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

- Federal Update/Alerts

Urge your Representative to Support 2010 Autism Appropriations

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- News from ASA:

Seven Ways to Celebrate National Autism Awareness Month Videoconference and Webcast Presented for World Autism Awareness Day Temple Grandin to Speak at UN AMC and ASA to Host Two Sensory Friendly Films this April Santa-America and ASA Launch Partnership AFP Launches Employment Initiative for Citizens with Intellectual and Developmental

Disabilities Urge Your Representative to Support 2010 Autism Appropriations NIH Will Use $60 Million in Recovery Act Funds to Support Strategic Autism Research In Preparation for Autism Awareness Month, Senator Menendez Reintroduces the Helping

HANDS for Autism Act Ohio Fights for Autism Insurance Coverage Survey on Accessibility of Public Transportation Model Me Conversation Cues® Teaching Manual & Student Workbook ASA National Conference, July 22-25 in St. , Ill. New Book on Nutrition for Special-Needs Children Hygiene Tutorials for the Developmentally Disabled New Service Dogs Placed with Children on the Spectrum s Publishing Autism Library Giveaway Software Helps Children with Autism Recognize Facial Expressions- ASA-Greater Cincinnati organizing Bus for statehouse Rally

- The ASA-Greater Cleveland Chapter Chili Cook off For Autism- Upcoming Seminars from ASA-Northwest Ohio Chapter, Toledo

- ASA-Dayton Chapter to hold Autism Walk April 4

- ASA Dayton to host Free Autism Awareness Day Gala!

- ASA-SE Ohio Chapter presents Athens Rocks for Autism 2

- Project MORE's 4th Annual Conference

- IEP Tips in latest s Law Newsletter

- MILESTONES AUTISM/ASPERGER'S CONFERENCE, NE Ohio

- Seminar: Reality AAC in the Classroom, Hudson

- Multiple Perspectives on Access, Inclusion & Disability conference, Columbus

- Greater Cleveland Asperger Support MEET AND EAT, Independence

- IMPROVING SCHOOL-BASED TRANSITION SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES: A Training for Parent Group Leaders, Columbus

- Autism Today offers Autism At Home Series

- ASPIES Adults Greater Akron Support Group presents "Services & Opportunities"

- ASPIESGreater Akron Support Group presents ANXIETY - Deal with it!

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:

Second Hearing on Autism Insurance Coverage Bill HB 8 Held, Third Hearing Scheduled

The second hearing of HB 8, Autism Insurance Coverage, before the House Healthcare Access and Affordability Committee, held Wednesday, March 18, 2009 went very well. Many thanks to the individuals with autism, their families, service providers and other supporters who completely filled the hearing room!

The Committee, chaired by Rep. Lorraine Fende, again heard testimony from proponents of the bill (those in favor of the legislation). Among those testifying were Margaret Demko, a parent from the Athens area, who also is a member of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council and testified to their support of HB 8, Heidi LaVoie, a parent from the Akron area, a small business owner who is a member of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and also a parent, a large employer that provides autism insurance coverage, Sinclair from the Cleveland Clinic Autism Center and a national expert testifying on the impact of autism insurance coverage in other states that have already passed legislation similar to HB 8. All the testimony was well received and very impressive.

The third hearing for the newly introduced Autism Insurance Coverage Legislation - HB 8 - has been scheduled before the House Healthcare Access and Affordability Committee on March 25th at 4pm in Rm. 122 of the Statehouse. Once again this will be the only bill under consideration at this hearing.

And once again, ASA-ASO and the alliance of other interested parties that have come together to work collaboratively to pass autism insurance coverage in Ohio have arranged for proponents to testify that day. Additionally, this will be the second opportunity for those opposing the bill to testify as well. And once again your help is also needed! Filling the hearing room with supporters of HB 8 will send a strong message to members of the committee and those opposing the bill, 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 in the coming weeks. We are hopeful that a hearing will be scheduled for April 1 the day of our Autism/Developmental Disability Awareness rally, so if you coming to the rally, be sure to schedule an appointment with your legislators to talk about HB 8. 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 Parity. 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 Hosket, 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.

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

Urge your Representative to Support 2010 Autism Appropriations

As the fiscal year 2010 budget works its way through Congress, it isvital that appropriations are included for autism spectrum disorders.Please take a minute this afternoon to ask your member of the U.S. House of Representatives to sign on to the Coalition forAutism Research and Education (CARE) appropriations requests for$211 million for autism in the Labor, Health and Human Services, andEducation budget and $15 million for autism in the Department ofDefense budget.Write to your Representative today: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Zmy7-sa7hdpBA1NDFw3HHQ..We are asking that the Labor, Health and Human Services, andEducation Subcommittee provide full funding for the 3rd year of theCombating Autism Act (CAA) in 2010. Implementation of the CAA iscritical, because it directs the Department of Health and HumanServices to begin coordinating all of the activities among itsagencies that work on autism, including National Institutes of Health,Centers for Disease Control, and the Health Resources and ServicesAdministration. For Fiscal Year 2010, the CAA authorizes a total of$211 million for a variety of critical autism activities, including: (1) $20.5 million for the CDC to conduct its Developmental Disabilities Surveillance and Research program; (2) $47 million in the HRSA account for HHS to carry out autism education, early detection, and intervention programs; and (3) $143.5 million for the HHS Secretary and the NIH to operate the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee, implement the expansion, intensification and coordination of research on ASD, and fund and review autism centers of excellence.We are also asking that the Department of Defense AppropriationsSubcommittee provide $15 million for autism research in the Researchand Development of Defense Health Programs account. Many militaryfamilies are touched by autism - based on current prevalence rates, asmany as 12,000 children in military families (active duty, reserve andguard) may have autism. These families are substantially affected bythe financial and emotional costs of raising a child with autism. Infact, given the frequent duty station changes and social turmoil ofmilitary service, military children with an autism spectrum disorderoften face additional challenges with which their civiliancounterparts do not have to contend. Care for dependents with autismis also a significant direct cost to the Department of Defense.To help improve the lives of all affected by autism, simply take amoment and click here to send an email to Congress today: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=xmvApquJT1IcofrUA2GG4w..Thank you for your suppport of this important issue.Sincerely,Lee GrossmanPresident & CEOAutism Society of America

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc.:

News from the ASA:

Seven Ways to Celebrate National Autism Awareness MonthIn order to highlight the growing need for concern and awareness aboutautism, ASA has been celebrating National Autism Awareness Month sincethe 1970s. The United States recognizes April as a special opportunityfor everyone to educate the public about autism and issues within theautism community. ASA has launched several family-friendly awarenessactivities to give people with autism and their communities a chanceto celebrate National Autism Awareness Month in unique ways thisApril. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=o33Fl1Zstscpu2FkYVvUfg..Videoconference and Webcast Presented for World Autism Awareness DayGlobal Education Motivators (GEM) in collaboration with the UnitedNations Office of Special Events will present "EducationalChallenges," a videoconference and Webcast on Monday, March 30,2009, at 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Eastern time as part of the week-longcelebration of World Autism Awareness Day. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=zSj9zOA96ukMTOByGGLTxg..Temple Grandin to Speak at UNIn honor of World Autism Awareness Day, Dr. Temple Grandin will speakat the United Nations Headquarters in New York City on April 1. Readmore: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=SfCWIzvWJG1spJWvXEWb7w..AMC and ASA to Host Two Sensory Friendly Films this AprilIn honor of Autism Awareness Month, there will be two Sensory FriendlyFilms this April: "Monsters vs. Aliens" on April 4, and "Hannah Montana: The Movie" on April 18, both at 10 a.m. local time. Visit www.autism-society.org/sensoryfilms to find a theatre near you, and besure to look for our new locations in Grand Rapids, Mich.; Houston;San Francisco; Spokane, Wash.; and Tampa, Fla.Santa-America and ASA Launch PartnershipSanta-America and the Autism Society of America announced apartnership last week that will help children affected by autism andtheir families have rewarding, inclusive experiences with Santa forthe holiday season. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=QUzPnKU-brPDUegHyHBKKA..AFP Launches Employment Initiative for Citizens with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities The Alliance for Full Participation (AFP), of which the Autism Societyof America is a member, has announced a national effort to increaseemployment in the U.S. for people with developmental disabilities. Individuals with developmental disabilities want and need real jobslike everyone else. About 10% of the U.S. population has disabilities,but, within that group, only 37% are employed. And it's worsefor Americans with developmental disabilities, where only 22% of thegroup is employed. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=uGG-jD3_yNFBofBFMjg-xA..NIH Will Use $60 Million in Recovery Act Funds to Support Strategic Autism ResearchThe National Institutes of Health will commit roughly $60 million fromthe American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to support autismresearch and meet objectives set forth earlier this year by a federaladvisory committee. The Request for Applications is the largestfunding opportunity for research on autism spectrum disorders (ASD) todate and, combined with other ARRA initiatives, represents a surge inNIH's commitment to finding the causes of and treatments forautism. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=TSWbZiBYzVy78XbXu-fpdA..In Preparation for Autism Awareness Month, Senator Menendez Reintroduces the Helping HANDS for Autism ActWith Autism Awareness Month beginning next week, U.S. Senator Menendez (D-NJ) reintroduced his legislation yesterday that would supportfamilies dealing with autism spectrum disorders. The Helping HANDS forAutism Act, which is supported by the Autism Society of America, is athree-part legislative package that includes a program to guidefamilies seeking services and care, increased awareness amongfirst-responders and housing for adults with ASD. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=cQbpYEwNBLmdyWUReWzwnA..Ohio Fights for Autism Insurance CoverageThe Autism Society of America joins with the Autism Society ofAmerica-Ohio Chapter and the nine local chapters in Ohio, the OhioAlliance for Autism Insurance Reform and other groups in support ofHouse Bill 8 "to prohibit health insurers from excluding coverage forspecified services for individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrumdisorder." This bill will require private health-care policies toprovide coverage of the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrumdisorders (ASD). HB 8 will cover Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) andother medically necessary treatments prescribed by an insured'streating physician or psychologist. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=utNoh7OsHaHFa_uC838fxg..Survey on Accessibility of Public TransportationIn conjunction with a grant received from the Federal TransitAdministration, Meeting the Challenge, Inc., is conducting a surveydesigned to collect information from people with disabilitiesregarding their experiences with public transportation. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=YzQ511ANoz7BOk1yFZSBXQ..Model Me Conversation Cues® Teaching Manual & Student WorkbookChildren with autism face significant challenges in reading socialcues. A child with autism might talk about a favorite interest, notreading the cues that his audience is bored by the topic. This caninterfere in the child's ability to engage successfully with peers. Video modeling has been found to be an effective teaching tool to helpchildren with autism acquire appropriate social skills. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=S1U-6k21pF8t63LldNQSlw..ASA National Conference, July 22-25 in St. , Ill.Early bird registration for the 2009 ASA National Conference andExposition has been extended to April 30. Register now to get the bestregistration rate! This year's conference will be held in St. ,Illinois, at the Pheasant Run Resort July 22 to 25. The fullconference program with breakout session and presenter information isnow online. In addition, respite care information will be onlinewithin the week. You can access all information about the conferenceand registration at our Web site: www.autism-society.org/conference.The 2009 Conference includes a Continuing Medical Education track aswell as a full-day Science Symposium, all part of the regularregistration rate. We anticipate close to 2,000 attendees this yearand 150 exhibitors.Over 101 booths have already sold for this year's event. Toparticipate as an exhibitor, program guide advertiser or sponsor,please contact Meg Ellacott, Ellacott@... or302.260.9487. Visit www.autism-society.org/conference and click onexhibit information to learn more. If you have any questions, pleasedon't hesitate to contact us at conference@....New Book on Nutrition for Special-Needs ChildrenIn a new book, "Special-Needs Kids Eat Right: Strategies to Help Kidson the Autism Spectrum Focus, Learn, and Thrive" (Perigee, 2009),pediatric nutritionist Judy Converse, MPH, RD, LD, has synthesizedmore than a decade of clinical practice into a seven-step program,along with comprehensive tools, tips and resources, to help parents ofspecial-needs children customize a diet that could change theirchild's life. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=4MFHsvvTANHn5AS3ryEnEQ..Hygiene Tutorials for the Developmentally DisabledHygien-e is a series of hygiene coaching products designed forindividuals with special needs. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=9Uv2ZGfbt1NqrubfzLUZWw..New Service Dogs Placed with Children on the SpectrumAs America begins to gear up for Autism Awareness Month this April,the North Star Foundation, a non-profit organization specializing inthe placement of assistance dogs with special-needs children, will havealready welcomed a new litter of golden retrievers into its assistancedog program. To date, the North Star Foundation has placed over 100dogs in support positions, and six pups from the new litter havealready been assigned to six children on the autism spectrum acrossthe U.S. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=TdTq52ilKTQSMhiEQ6BATA..s Publishing Autism Library GiveawayIn recognition of National Autism Awareness Month, s Publishingis giving away an autism library worth nearly $500 each week in April. Drawings will be held April 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2009. Preview thelibrary or enter at http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=4SirWE7nKQDxSa-DikK6ZA.. .Software Helps Children with Autism Recognize Facial ExpressionsDon ston recently announced the release of "Faceland," a softwareprogram to help children with autism, Asperger's anddevelopmental deficiencies learn how to recognize facial expressionsthat display the emotions of surprise, fear, disgust, anger, sadnessand happiness. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=HGi7TK9Sh_n3csfHMps_cw..

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

The ASA-Greater Cleveland Chapter Chili Cook off For AutismApril 2, 2009@ Terrace Club in Progressive FieldTickets: $20.00Chances to Win Great Prizes -- Walt Disney World Pass, AirLine Tickets & MoreTickets available at www.asgc.org, at the door or by calling (216) 556-4937.The Autism Society of Greater Cleveland (ASGC) will be holding its fourth annual Greater Cleveland Chili Cook-Off for Autism on Thursday, April 2 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Progressive Field’s Terrace Club. More than 20 professional chili chefs from some of Northeast Ohio’s restaurants will satisfy the taste buds of party-goers who will be voting on their favorite recipe. The event will include silent auction and raffle items, with autographed items from Cleveland’s sports teams. There will be gift packages and certificates from many of the area’s finest restaurants and hotels, as well as passes to Kings Island, Cedar Point, Great Wolf Lodge, Walt Disney World and even an opportunity to win airline tickets from Continental Airlines and AirTran Airways. Last year’s event was attended by nearly 600 people and ASGC expects at least as many this year. There will be a cash bar and live music from Ace Molar. All proceeds from the event will be used exclusively to serve those families and individuals in Northeast Ohio that live with autism. Admission is $20 per person. Tickets can be purchased on line at http://www.asgc.org/, by mailing a check to ASGC, P.O. Box 41066 Brecksville, Ohio 44141, or with cash at the event. CORPORATE & PERSONAL DONATIONS/SPONSORSHIPS still being accepted!Autism is the fastest growing epidemic in America. The Center for Disease Control state one out of every 150 children will be born with some form of autism. This is up significantly from just over a decade ago when the prevalence rate was only one in 10,000. The Autism Society of Greater Cleveland (ASGC) is a chapter of the Autism Society of America (ASA) and provides information, coordinates services, and removes obstacles to those who live with autism. Through monthly meetings, newsletters, special events, guest speakers, and fundraisers, ASGC functions as a catalyst for change by providing parents and caregivers with the support and very latest information, so that their insight and talents are able to be used to the fullest potential. The Autism Society of Greater ClevelandP.O. Box 41066Brecksville, OH 44141(216) 556-4937

Upcoming Seminars from ASA-Northwest Ohio Chapter

“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 Dayton to host Free Autism Awareness Day Gala!

The Autism Society of America-Dayton Chapterhosts a FREE Virtual Autism Awareness Day Galain honor ofWorld Autism Awareness Day**April 2, 2009*Dayton, OH- Mar. 20, 2009 - On Dec. 18, 2007, the United Nations declaredApril 2 to be *WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY*. This UN resolution is one ofonly three official disease-specific United Nations Days and will bring theworld's attention to autism, a pervasive disorder that affects tens ofmillions. The World Autism Awareness Day resolution encourages all MemberStates to take measures to raise awareness about autism throughout societyand to encourage early diagnosis and early intervention. It furtherexpresses deep concern at the prevalence and high rate of autism in childrenin all regions of the world and the consequent developmental challenges.In honor of this day, the Autism Society of America-Dayton Chapter isholding a FREE *Virtual Autism Awareness Day Gala* in their unique livechat community on their website! Anytime on Thursday, April 2nd, anyone canvisit the ASA-Dayton website athttp://www.autismsociety-dayton.org<'>http://www.autismsociety-dayton.org<http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102514748917 & e=001IpBzS1OU8F9Tvqk-TuU3n494GJ0dBmkzjdZnF5Qz6mmOBL6qtIhz50ZkBsMAgLJbCWxu_faWltqJUf6FDw8NTCM3U0FaOn5HhaN-N5PCnrvZEJHUnceAqTIOuIHeKn5n>,click the puzzle piece that says "CHAT" on the home page and log into theirlive chat community. No password needed!On this day, in addition to the regular autism-specific chat rooms, therewill be a special visitor room for visitors to sign-in, tell where they arefrom, indicate their connection to autism, and leave a dedication or messageif they wish. Those interested in a specific topic or wanting to findothers from their part of the world to chat with can even create their ownchat room! There is a room specific to teens with ASD called Teen Talk, aswell as a room for adults with ASD called Adult Cafe where those affected byan ASD can connect with each other.This live chat community has been created to bring people together to shareinformation and support one another, knowing it is extremely isolatinghaving an ASD or being the caregiver of someone with an ASD. Often thecomputer is their only connection to the outside world. And autismdoesn't just affect someone between 9AM and 5PM. It's often those long,sleepless nights when a live, understanding person is most needed.Please visit the Autism Society of America-Dayton Chapter's new website andmake plans to log in for the free Virtual Autism Awareness Gala on Thursday,April 2. Stay for a short visit or stay all day and show your support forWorld Autism Awareness Day. The website and live chat community are alwaysavailable, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to connect, share, and support.http://www.autismsociety-dayton.org<http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102514748917 & e=001IpBzS1OU8F9Tvqk-TuU3n494GJ0dBmkzjdZnF5Qz6mmOBL6qtIhz50ZkBsMAgLJbCWxu_faWltqJUf6FDw8NTCM3U0FaOn5HhaN-N5PCnrvZEJHUnceAqTIOuIHeKn5n> BernotaitisPresidentAutism Society of America - Dayton Chaptera 501©3 organizationhttp://www.autismsociety-dayton.org

ASA-SE Ohio Chapter presents Athens Rocks for Autism 2

SEO-ASA's second annual benefit concert and silent auctionFriday, April 24, 20097 pm - midnightOhio University Baker Center BallroomFeaturing:The Jazz Cream Assassins at 7:30

The Royales at 10:00

Appetizers includedBeer and wine availableDress CasualTickets: $25 per ticket$15 for students and SEO-ASA members (only available at Athens campus booth or contact us)Buy tickets now via safe Paypal! We can mail you the tickets or keep them at the reception table. For questions, please contact rock@...For more information, visit http://www.autismseohio.org/rock2

Project MORE's 4th Annual Conference

Project MORE's 4th Annual Conference " Sustaining Project MORE for the Future: Lessons Learned" will be held on Monday, May 18th at BGSU's Bowen- Student Union. Registration/Continental Breakfast begins at 8:00; Conference concludes at 2:45. On Line Registration for our May 18th Conference at BGSU is now available at www.ohioprojectmore.org. You can also use this link:http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/?p=WEB228YFEVJH5C

IEP Tips in latest s Law Newsletter

In This Issue:Your IEP Game Plan: Writing SMART IEPsGood IEP Goals: A Tactics & Strategy Session What Can I Ask the School to Do?Video: Introducing - He's a Child, Not a Label

MILESTONES AUTISM/ASPERGER'S CONFERENCE Monday, June 15 at Landerhaven Featuring Myles

For complete details visit: http://www.milestones.org/news_conferences.htm

You are invited to a FREE workshop: Reality AAC in the ClassroomMaking it real.Are you looking for ways to integrate your student who uses an AAC device throughout the day? Jane Odom, M.ED will present an interactive workshop examining the reality of using AAC devices in many aspects of the school day--calendar time, literacy activities, group writing, social studies, and more. Activities will be linked to education standards. Participants will receive a free CD of activities they can use in their classroom.Participants can bring a PRC device or laptop with emulator software to the workshop, but this is not required to participate. Some workshop activities will include examples with PRC devices while others will be general to all AAC devices you may find in the classroom. As power cords may be limited, please be sure your device or laptop is fully charged for the hands-on activities.

WHENApril 21, 200910:00am to 4:30pmCost: FREE WHEREHudson Library and Historical Society--Flood Family Meeting Rooms96 Library StreetHudson, OH 44236Lunch is provided.Looking forward to seeing you there! Space is limited, so please register today. Register Now! Go to www.prentrom.comClick on "Training"Click "Regional Training"Enter "OH"Click on "Add Training" next to this seminar titleFor more information, contact our PRC Event Coordinator at (800) 848-8008

Multiple Perspectives on Access, Inclusion & Disability conference

PERSPECTIVES ON PUBLIC POLICYAt the Ninth AnnualMultiple Perspectives on Access, Inclusion & Disability conference April 28th and 29th 2009The Ohio State University’s Columbus Ohio Over thirty sessions feature a thread on public policy covering a range of topics including employment, the UN Convention on Disability, health care, emergency preparedness and returning veterans. Check out the samples below or visit or web site for the full program and registration at: http://ada.osu.edu/conferences/2009Conf/2009program.htm OSU students can earn up to two credits in Arts and Sciences 800 attending conference sessions*

Greater Cleveland Asperger Support MEET AND EATFor parents and caregivers of children affected by Asperger's Syndrome and other Autistic Spectrum DisordersCome for an informal meeting of sharing, support and exchange of information. Monday, March 30th6:15 pm (latecomers ok - we will adjourn between 8 - 8:15 pm)

Angie's Pizza6932 Hillside Road,Independence, OH 44131

(216) 524-8100

Get Directions

In the shopping center anchored by the CVS across from St. 's Church. Brielle's is two store fronts before the CVS. Below is a map link:http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en & q=6523%20Brecksville%20Road & um=1 & ie=UTF-8 & am p;sa=N & tab=wlMenu includes sandwiches, salads and a variety of desserts. Come for dinner or just drop in for coffee/tea. If you are new to the group, don't worry about finding us. It's a small coffee and tea room and our group may very well be the only diners at that time.RSVP to @... , so we will know what size table to reserve and be able to communicate any important changes.Theresa S.Greater Cleveland Asperger Supportgc-as

IMPROVING SCHOOL-BASED TRANSITION SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES: A Training for Parent Group LeadersSaturday, May 9, 2009Sponsors:ô€¹ Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidenceô€¹ Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children With Disabilitieswww.ocali.org

Planning for the transition from school to adulthood for students with disabilities is a critical function of schools.IDEA provides specific language about the responsibilities of school districts and school personnel insupporting students in achieving their post secondary goals. This one-day training for parent groupsleaders will offer information, strategies and materials that can be used to train parent groupsso they can work to improve the transition services provided by their local school districts.ImprovingTransitionProvided through funding from the Ohio Department of Education,Office for Exceptional ChildrenPRESENTERS:» Kathe Shelby, Director of the Office for Exceptional Children, Ohio Department of Education,» Margaret Burley, Executive Director of the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities» Ohio Parent Mentors» Lawrence Dennis, former Assistant Director, Office for Exceptional Children, Ohio Department of Education.PARENT GROUP LEADERS WILL RECEIVE:services planning in their districts» Information on strategies Ohio Parent Mentors and other parent groups have used to improve transition» Free resources to support transition-focused training for parents» Information on effective methods and activities implemented by local school districts to prepare studentsfor adult life

DATE / TIME / LOCATION / COST:Location: Ramada Plaza and Conference Center, 4900 Sinclair Rd., Columbus, OH | I-71 and Morse RoadCost: Free to Parent Organization and Support Group LeadersDate: Saturday, May 9, 2009 Time: 9:30 am - 3:00 pm / Registration: 8:30 - 9:30 amTO REGISTER: Contact OCALI at.ocali@...The training will be limited to 100 participants. Please register early. Lunch will be provided.Registration deadline and last day to cancel – Friday May 1, 2009

Autism Today offers Autism At Home Series

http://www.autismathomeseries.com/Home.html

ASPIES Adults Greater Akron Support Group presents "Services & Opportunities"

ASPIES Adults Greater Akron Support Group assisting individuals withAsperger Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, and PDD-NOS\ partnering with ASA-Greater Akron Chapter in its ongoing "Empowering You" Series presents "Services & Opportunities" with Nora Owens and Dr. Bruce Kottler of Professional Services

Rooms 5 & 6 - (2nd floor / Street level) Considine Professional Building (across from Akron Children’s Hospital Main Entrance) Thursday, April 2nd7:00-9:00 pm

For further information, contactJoy Spencer 330-745-5115 Rreindeer@...

ASPIESGreater Akron Support Group presents ANXIETY - Deal with it!

ASPIES Greater AkronSupport Group for parents of children w/Asperger Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, & PDD-NOS partnering with ASA-Greater Akron Chapter Presents: ANXIETY - Deal with it! Dr. Nevada , Pediatric Neurologist & DePolo, PsyDof KidsLink ***RSVP required due to limited space.*** Tuesday, April 21st - 6:30-8:30 pm(Childcare not provided.)NOTE ROOM CHANGE!!!!Children's Hospital Cafeteria Conference Room1 Perkins Sq., Akron OH 44308 For further info or to RSVP, contact Joy Spencer 330-745-5115 or Rreindeer@... Worried about job security? Check out the 5 safest jobs in a recession.