ASA-ASO DIGEST: February 16, 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:

- ASA-ASO Statement on the Sky Case

- Ohio Task Force on Oral Health and Access to Dental Care

- 2009 Ohio Statewide Testing Program Rules Book Now Available

- Ohio State Advisory Panel for Exceptional Children (SAPEC) Seeking Applicants

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

- Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

- Federal Update/Alerts

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- News from the ASA:

ASA Publishes Model Legislation for Autism Insurance Coverage ASA Statement on February 12, 2009, Vaccine Court Ruling Autism on the Seas "Arthur" Character Search Challenges Kids Funds for Health Care and Education Included in Stimulus Agreement Discovery by Brown Researchers Could Lead to New Autism Treatment Multiple Genes Implicated in Autism Autism Asperger Publishing Company Launches New Social Skills Magazine for Students 2009 Autism Society of America National Conference and Exposition, July 22-25,

Milestones Family and Professional Workshops 2009 ASNO Presents Practical Workshops "A Real Boy" Tells of Boy's Struggle and Family's Commitment PRC Introduces ECOpoint Eye-Gaze System Video Game May Help Autism Patients New Music Therapy CD Available Visual Voice Pro: New Software for Sensory Rooms- Athens Rocks for Autism - SEO-ASA's second annual benefit concert and silent auction

- Upcoming Activities ASA-Tri-County (Youngstown)

- Article: They’re Autistic—and They’re in Love

- Books on Relationships and Autism from AAPC

- Remarkable Families Symposium

- Article: Disabled Get Last Laugh on MTV's 'News'

- NAMI Stark County presents its Hand-to-Hand Family Education Program

- Article: MIT: Multiple genes implicated in autism

- Article: Video self-modeling helps autistic students

- Video: Preparing for Life After the Caregiver is Gone

- CEC's Assistive Technology webinars begin Feb. 12!

- Seminar: Autism Spectrum Disorders: Understanding the Mis-Understood, Wooster

- Seminar: Getting the Most from Your Private Health Insurance Plan, NE Ohio

- Parent Training Seminars, Akron

- MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR NAA-NEO's UPCOMING EVENTS AND WORKSHOPS!!

- Article: College trains church leaders to help with autism

- Article: Alternative autism therapy a less-expensive option

- Paper: Landmark autism study misrepresented vaccine data

- Public Policy Sessions at The Ninth Annual Multiple Perspectives on Access, Inclusion, and Disability: Change, Challenge, & Collaboration , Columbus

- Free showing March 6th - Madagascar 2, Kent

- Free Job Training for Students, Kent

- Disability Resources Website

- Book: "Growing Up on the Spectrum

- Article: Kids With Autism Love This Software

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:

ASA-ASO Statement on the Sky Case

Recent media coverage has highlighted the story of Sky , an 18 year old with autism who is accused of the January 29 beating death of his mother, a professor at Kent State University. ASA-ASO mourns this tragic event. A person with autism is no more likely to cause violence to someone than a person with diabetes, or cancer, or any other chronic medical condition. There is nothing inherent in autism that leads to violence; however, as is also the case with other societal issues such as poverty, without the proper services and supports, conditions can become dangerous. ASA-ASO is working in conjunction with other agencies and organizations to make sure that Sky receives the supports he needs during this difficult time. ASA-ASO will continue to advocate at the state level to assure that services and supports are in place for families in Ohio so that this tragic situation is not repeated.

Ohio Task Force on Oral Health and Access to Dental Care

The following is an important announcement of regional public hearings related to oral health and access to dental care. It is being lead by Dr. Alvin , the Director of ODH. As you know, in recent years during the state budget process, the General Assembly has discussed the elimination of Medicaid coverage for dental care. We know that individuals have problems with their general health, if their oral health needs are not attended to. We have heard testimony, in years past, from individuals who could not get a job, because their teeth were in such bad shape. The Governor's budget supports ongoing dental care for individuals with Medicaid coverage. But, as you know, simply having the coverage doesn't guarantee access! Mark your calendar! We want to hear from you. Dr. Alvin , Director of the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), has convened the 2009 Task Force on Oral Health and Access to Dental Care to make recommendations on how to increase statewide access to oral health and prevention services. In February and March ODH will hold 6 regional meetings to get input from consumers, providers and other stakeholders. The dates and locations for the meetings are as follows: â— February 24, 2009 Lisbon, Ohioâ— February 25, 2009 North Royalton, Ohioâ— March 3, 2009 Columbus, Ohioâ— March 5, 2009 ville, Ohioâ— March 10, 2009 Bowling Green, Ohioâ— March 16, 2009 Cincinnati, Ohio There will be two sessions in each location. Morning sessions will focus on needs and challenges of patients/consumers. Afternoon sessions will focus on the needs and challenges of providers. Details will follow soon. Additional information on the Task Force on Oral Health & Access to Dental Care can be found at http://www.odh.ohio.gov/odhPrograms/ohs/oral/oralfaq/Taskforce.aspx

2009 Ohio Statewide Testing Program Rules Book Now Available

The February 2009 version of the Ohio Statewide Testing Program Rules Book has been posted on the ODE Web site (www.education.ohio.gov). You may access the Rules Book here: http://www.ode.state.oh.us/GD/Templates/Pages/ODE/ODEDetail.aspx?page=3 & TopicRelationID=9 & ContentID=43712 & Content=62944

You may also access this by using the keyword search: Rules Book.

Pages 27 – 35 address topics related to Students with Disabilities (Participation, Exemptions, Accommodations and Alternate Assessments)

Appendix I, pages 83 – 86 provides guidance for scribes and transcribers.

**Please note: The Statewide Testing Accommodations guidance document continues to be accessed at this site: http://www.ode.state.oh.us/GD/Templates/Pages/ODE/ODEDetail.aspx?page=3 & TopicRelationID=967 & ContentID=47700 & Content=59102

You may also access testing accommodations by using the keyword search: Accommodations

Ohio State Advisory Panel for Exceptional Children (SAPEC) Seeking Applicants

The Ohio State Advisory Panel for Exceptional Children (SAPEC) is currently seeking applicants for membership terms beginning July 1, 2009. The SAPEC advises the Ohio Department of Education on the education of children with disabilities. The SAPEC’s purpose is to provide a board base of input to the Office for Exceptional Children (OEC) and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction regarding policies, practices and issues related to the education of children and youth with disabilities who are between the ages of birth through twenty-one years of age. In addition to the required federal mandates, the SAPEC will investigate best practices and anticipate future needs for special education in Ohio.

SAPEC membership must comply with categories listed in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEA). Members in the following two categories are needed: (1) parents or legal guardians of children/persons with disabilities (ages birth through 26); (2) individuals with disabilities.

Preference will be given to applicants who reside in the following Ohio counties:

, , Ashland, Ashtabula, Auglaize, Brown, Carroll, Champaign, Coshocton, Defiance, Gallia, Hardin, on, Henry, Highland, Hocking, Holmes, , Knox, Lawrence, Logan, Madison, Meigs, Mercer, Morrow, Muskingum, ding, , Pike, Putnam, Richland, Ross, Scioto, Seneca, Shelby, Tuscarawas, Van Wert, Vinton, Washington, , and Wyandot.

Applicants must commit to attend four all day meetings per year. The meetings take place in various locations in Columbus, Ohio.

For more information or to apply, visit www.education.ohio.gov Search word: SAPEC

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

Thanks to everyone who contacted Ohio's Senators to support the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Below is an update on what was passed by the Senate. The Bill has been though the Conference Committee. ASA-ASO is waiting to see the impact that it will have on the budget introduced by Governor Strickland. More information will be forthcoming in next week's DIGEST

Senate Bill: Senators Ben (D-NE), (R-ME), Arlen Specter (R-PA), and Joe Lieberman (I-CT) crafted a compromise substitute amendment for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (S.1). According to the Senate Democratic leadership, the substitute will garner sufficient Republican support to overcome a filibuster (or endless debate). The following disability-related program increases remain in the substitute bill:* $87 billion over two years in the federal share of Medicaid spending (FMAP);* $13 billion for IDEA state grant program;* $500 million for the vocational rehabilitation state grant;

* $110 million for independent living;* $500 million for IDEA Part C early intervention;* $2.25 billion for the HOME (housing) program;* $100 million for lead paint abatement; * $400 million for the Social Services Block Grant (Title XX);* $16.7 billion for a $300 one-time payment to Social Security beneficiaries, including people with disabilities and retirees, beneficiaries receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and disabled veterans;* $750 million for a new National Computer Center for the Social Security Administration (SSA); and* $140 million for information technology for SSA. The substitute eliminates funding to make Section 811 Supportive Housing units more energy efficient. The Senate bill does not include an extension of moratoria on seven Medicaid regulations until July 1.

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc.:

News from the ASA:

ASA Publishes Model Legislation for Autism Insurance CoverageThe Autism Society of America published today its "ModelLegislation for Insurance Coverage," with the goal to strengthenand continue the quest for appropriate insurance coverage for allAmericans living with autism. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=3B4Ck1GBuFjLD_KWdADkCA..ASA Statement on February 12, 2009, Vaccine Court RulingThursday, the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (Vaccine Court) ruled that the combination of the MMR vaccine and thimerosal in other vaccines did not cause or contribute to the cause of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism in the cases of Cedillo,Hazelhurst, Snyder v. Secretary of Health and Human Services. Thoughthe litigation on which vaccines may have caused autism in somechildren varies, this ruling only affects those who claim the interaction of the MMR vaccine and thimerosal-containing vaccines cause autism. There are cases still to be decided, and many unanswered questions for the thousands of families affected by autism. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=J0k7D0BOvP85Yq84cB5s6A..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 13 ports of call across six countries. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=zFHh-klFGfEKEtuB6EZppQ.."Arthur" Character Search Challenges KidsThe popular children's TV program "Arthur" and All Kids Can arechallenging kids to come up with a new character for the show - "one who can show the gang in Elwood City that children come inall shapes, sizes, and abilities." Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=YI_MaC36tzbtPvmdOEpNZg..Funds for Health Care and Education Included in Stimulus AgreementOn February 11, House and Senate negotiators reached an agreement on the details of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The agreed-upon details of the stimulus bill include several points relevant to the autism community in the areas of health care and education. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=FLbZh65oLE1GHGyGKaKpKg..Discovery by Brown Researchers Could Lead to New Autism TreatmentA Brown University research team has discovered something in the brainthat could serve as a target for future autism and mental retardationtreatments. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=5Unshfc3EfkESTzLD_FAAw..Multiple Genes Implicated in AutismBy pinpointing two genes that cause autism-like symptoms in mice,researchers at MIT's Picower Institute for Learning and Memory haveshown for the first time that multiple, interacting genetic riskfactors may influence the severity of autistic symptoms. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Z_zrPIfiP1_bQ7rj-YgQhw..Autism Asperger Publishing Company Launches New Social Skills Magazine for StudentsStudents with social cognitive disorders, including autism spectrumdisorders, need social skills training just as much as they need math,reading and writing classes to succeed in school and beyond. However,it is difficult to integrate this much-needed training into teachers' 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. In an effort to change this statistic and to help those both on and off the autism spectrum hone existing and learn new social skills, the Autism Asperger Publishing Company and bestselling author Kari Dunn Buron have teamed up to bring educators a unique and timely publication, "The Social Times." Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=d6RpAx_Vz8o1TJ9vu_qkDw..2009 Autism Society of America National Conference and Exposition, July 22-25, in St. , Ill.Registration for the 2009 ASA National Conference and Exposition isnow open! This year's conference will be held in St. , Ill., atthe Pheasant Run Resort July 22-25. There are early bird registrationrates in effect until April 1, so register early for the bestdiscount. You can access all information about the conference andregistration at our website: 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. The full schedule ofconference offerings will be available online in early March.Over 60 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, please don't hesitate to contact us atconference@....Milestones Family and Professional Workshops 2009Milestones Autism Organization will present "Transition PlanningPart II: Available Community Resources and Eligibility Requirementsfor Adult Services" on Sunday, March 8, 2009, at the SolonCommunity Center, 35000 Portz Parkway, Solon, Ohio, at 1:30-4:30 p.m.Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=XnvC6lKUkKqKjgHoeEvw3A..ASNO Presents Practical WorkshopsThe Autism Society of Northwest Ohio will present a series ofworkshops on "Practical Solutions to Everyday Challenges inAutism." This series of workshops is designed to teachstrategies to cope with some of the difficult behaviors exhibited bypeople of any age with autism. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=o95HDuH2JVskvenMLq4jsA.."A Real Boy" Tells of Boy's Struggle and Family's Commitment and Nicola s always felt that their youngest son was unlike other children. Despite their hopes that he wouldoutgrow his unusual behavior, which included painful screaming fitsand head-banging, was diagnosed with profound autism at the age of two. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=B3vXC7YjL42ezWVzzgy_5Q..PRC Introduces ECOpoint Eye-Gaze SystemPrentke Romich Company (PRC), recently announced ECOpoint, an integratedeye-gaze system for ECO, PRC's most advanced, Windows®XP-compatible communication device. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Dq4reiyE5SSl1A1ChAUakQ..Video Game May Help Autism PatientsClinicians at Brain Tune-Ups in Plymouth, Mich., were excited todiscover that playing a specialized video game has helped one boy withautism further his progress in therapy. The game, called Core:Tx®, isa computer-based program that uses wireless motion-sensing technology (similar to the popular Wii) to assist patients with neuromuscular re-education, which repairs and reactivates the pathways in the brain that may have been affected by autism. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=2orWS4r4EL3wofX0ODnU5w..New Music Therapy CD Available"Sing Out!" was designed for young children by a mom and music therapist who is learning everyday the trials and successes of speechdevelopment, both typical and delayed. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=_7ibE6gm4NJr12NspdB62g..Visual Voice Pro: New Software for Sensory RoomsHMC Interactive is launching Visual Voice Pro, a very flexible pieceof sound reactive software that requires only a laptop or a PC and aprojector to create an immersive environment ideal for sensory rooms,sensory gardens and sensory integration therapy. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=6bDhorXK93SBij7dshhgAg..

Athens Rocks for Autism - SEO-ASA's second annual benefit concert and silent auction

Friday, 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 Casual

Tickets: $25 per ticket$15 for students and SEO-ASA members (only available at Athens campus booth or contact us)

To purchase call 740-592-2743 or visit www.autismseohio.org/rock2

Upcoming Activities ASA-Tri-County (Youngstown)

Saturday- February 21, 2009 Saturday- March 21, 2009BowlingCamelot Lanes628 Boardman-Canfield RdBoardman, OH 44420Time: 6:00 P.M.Pizza will be providedPlease RSVP toTerry Chapin at 330-219-3593Or Aiello 330-799-7523 if you plan on attendingEmail: terry.chapin@... Wednesday- February 18, 2009Wednesday- March 18, 2009 Regular MeetingsTime: 7:00 p.m. meetingSocial: 8:301749 S. Raccoon Rd. Suite 3Austintown, Ohio 44515 Annual Golf OutingMonday June 22, 2009More information to follow!Mark your calendars now

Article: They’re Autistic—and They’re in Love

Lindsey Nebeker and Dave Hamrick each used to wonder if they’d ever find lasting love. Here’s how they came together—and how, side by side, they face the world.

http://www.glamour.com/magazine/2009/02/theyre-autistic-and-theyre-in-love?currentPage=1

Books on Relationships and Autism from AAPC

Beyond the Wall: Personal Experiences with Autism and Asperger Syndrome, 2ndEd. by M. Shore, foreword by Temple GrandinCode 9922$21.95

Ask and Tell: Self-Advocacy and Disclosure for People on the Autism Spectrum Editor: Shore; Foreword by: Temple Grandin; Contributing Authors: Kassiane Sibley, M. Shore, N. Meyer, Phil Schwarz, Liane Holliday WilleyCode 9940$21.95

Born on the Wrong Planet by HammerschmidtCode 9014$16.95

Life and Love: Positive Strategies for Autistic Adults by Zosia Zaks; foreword by Temple GrandinCode 9965$21.95

The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome -- A Guide to Living in an Intimate Relationship with a Partner Who Has Asperger Syndromeby Maxine C. AstonCode 9880$10.95

Order any of these books today and receive 20% off. Offer good until Monday, February 16 To take advantage of this special offer, enter GLAMOUR at checkout in the Coupon/Promotional Code box.

Remarkable Families Symposium

Registration is now open for the Remarkable Families Symposium on April 3, 2009. You can download a registration form by going to www.xavier.edu/familyresiliency and clicking on registration. Please alert your families and parents of this great opportunity. We are expecting 400 people and registration is filling up fast. Please don’t miss the boat! Register now.

Disabled Get Last Laugh on MTV's 'News'

By Tom Shales

Washington Post Staff Writer Thursday, February 5, 2009; Page C01

Groups once stigmatized can try to shed the stigma by morphing into a subculture or a "community," or, if politically oriented, a movement.

It's happening or has happened with old people, fat people, transsexuals and countless others. In that spirit, MTV's new "How's Your News?" show can be seen not as exploitation of people who have mental disabilities but rather as the expression of a subculture that has much to contribute to the mainstream but never had much of an opportunity.

"Can be" is the operative phrase, because some people might still see the half-hour program -- premiering Sunday night -- as some sort of condescending abuse, especially because the executive producers are Matt Stone and Trey , the smart-alecky pair who turned children into foulmouthed cynics with their callous "South Park" cartoon. But "How's Your News?" is clearly not in the "South Park" vein; it's upbeat and moving and the disabled or disadvantaged people who star in the program appear to exert enough control over the content to dispel charges that they're being used.

An informational magazine rather than a true "news" show, the program offers a free-form mish-mash on random topics that seem to have popped into the heads, singly or collectively, of its unique cast of reporters, who ride around in a bus looking for suitable stories or waiting for stories to come to them. The premiere is made up mostly of celebrity interviews with the likes of Miley Cyrus (Hannah Montana, of course), Jimmy Kimmel (who fantasizes about being a cable installer), comic Silverman ("you always make me cry," she tells one member of the troupe) and the rock group Plain White T's.

McCain is glimpsed briefly, talking casually with one of the disabled reporters as if hobnobbing with any other constituent. Likable Stamos pretends to be pretending to be a hitchhiker picked up by the "How's Your News?" bus. Surfers, skateboarders and the very available Ben Affleck also show up.

As viewers are invited to laugh with the reporters rather than at them, the non-disabled people who appear on the show have fun with them rather than make fun of them. Contrary to typical dramatic depictions of "special" souls in supposedly sensitive movies, these disabled folk have senses of humor even about their own situations and circumstances. They are in on the joke; they are telling the joke; they are part of the greater joke being played on us all.

One of the stars of the group is Bobby Bird, a man with Down syndrome who is in his 50s and who speaks in a private language that to others sounds very close to meaningless babble. He seems to know that's how people respond to him, however, and has fun with it, turning the tables in a way that makes a supposedly normal person feel isolated and out of it -- ostracized, as mentally challenged people often are.

Once he lights up, Bird isn't always easy to turn off. In a sequence taped on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards, Bird charges up to anybody and everybody and lays some of his infectious gibberish on them, so that we hear one of Bird's colleagues saying "Bobby, stop" in an effort to get the interview back on track. A young man named -- a born performer with an ebullient and guileless smile (as well the genetic condition syndrome, which causes developmental problems) -- attempts to interview Cyrus during a Bird blitz. This is funny in ways that nothing else on TV is funny, just as the show is a genre all to itself.

"How's Your News?" mercifully was not tossed together after a brainstorming weekend at a Hollywood bar. It's the fruition of a project that goes back a decade or more to Camp Jabberwocky on Martha's Vineyard -- a place for those with physical as well as mental disabilities. Arthur Bradford, a video enthusiast who worked at the camp, introduced TV cameras into the curriculum, as it were, and was delighted when the campers responded energetically.

Seeing yourself on TV isn't like seeing yourself in a mirror. It's better -- and worse. Contrary to a ridiculous truism, the camera does lie, and can be made to lie a proverbial blue streak, but it also has a way of uncovering heretofore unnoticed angles and unrealized reality. When the disabled campers saw themselves on television, they were in some way liberated and empowered.

Taped sequences were turned into a documentary, which became a feature film, which was shown in 2003 on HBO, which has now evolved into this MTV series, albeit one with only six produced episodes so far; more will come if the show catches on. (According to a network spokesperson, the reporters are being paid for their work, and thus not being exploited in that way, either.)

Tony DiSanto, an MTV executive, has been quoted as saying, "The show fits the MTV brand because it really feels like it belongs on our network, because you can't imagine it anywhere else." That's baloney, and not only because "branding" is a concept that has been done to death several times over; it's also because the show can easily be imagined on Bravo, Lifetime, HBO, National Geographic or any of several other specialized cable networks.

On MTV, it's being lumped in with three other new shows that constitute a revised Sunday night block. "How's Your News?" should fairly easily outshine the others because it truly is different and because it offers a perspective unavailable anywhere else. Will some of the same kids who jeer at the disabled among them tune in to laugh at those appearing on the program? Maybe, but the last laugh will probably be the reporters'.

The show isn't really "about" mental disabilities; it's just a chance to look through someone else's eyes and see the world in ways you've never seen it before. It could be part of a course in the humanities, or just a course in humanity. It's also a wickedly entertaining half-hour, one you'll never regret having surrendered to your television set.

How's Your News? (30 minutes) debuts Sunday night at 10:30 on MTV

NAMI Stark County presents its Hand-to-Hand Family Education Program.Hand-to-Hand is a FREE nine-week education program for parents, teachers and professionals involved with children at risk for or who have an emotional disturbance/behavioral disorder or mental illness diagnosis. Participants will gain an understanding of issues pertinent to Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Depression and Mood Disorders such as Bi-Polar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, ODD, Conduct Disorder, Schizophrenia and more. Topics covered include: · understanding your child's diagnosis · developing family coping skills · counseling, therapy and treatment · medications· special educational needs, including the IEP process · juvenile justice and child protection agencies Guidance is given on locating appropriate support and services within the community and obtaining better mental health services. Advocacy for appropriate federal and state policies is also included. The course is free, but registration is required. Refreshments offered and monetary stipend given for attendance. Tuesdays, February 17th-April 21st; 6:00-8PM Location: Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Stark County800 Market Ave., N., Suite 1610 (old McKinley HS building)Canton, Ohio 44702FOR INFORMATION OR REGISTRATION,PLEASE CALL NAMI Stark County at: 330-455-6264

Article: MIT- Multiple genes implicated in autism

http://esciencenews.com/articles/2009/02/09/mit.multiple.genes.implicated.autism

Article: Video self-modeling helps autistic students

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/s_610721.html

Video: Preparing for Life After the Caregiver is Gone

http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2009/02/10/andy/2129/

CEC's Assistive Technology webinars begin Feb. 12! Assistive technologymakes it possible for students with disabilities to succeed in today's classrooms. CEC's three-session AT webinar series includes: "Considering the Need for AT within the IEP"; "Planning for Classroom Implementation of AT"; and "Using Technology to Provide Access to the General Education Curriculum." Take advantage of our new low prices and register today. Offered through the Council for Exceptional Children.http://www.cec.sped.org/Source/Meetings/webinars.cfm?section=Professional_Development#WEBSRS0901

Seminar: Autism Spectrum Disorders: Understanding the Mis-Understood

Sometimes we just don't understand our kids who live on the spectrum of Autism. From home, to school and throughout life our kids are misunderstood for how they view life, live life, see the world, react to the world...and as people are constantly trying to "change" them, they miss out on the joys these kids have to offer...and, they miss how to reach them.In this meeting we will be talking about the misunderstandings of kids on the spectrum of Autism and gaining an insight into their life to help us better understand to not only bring awareness, but support, encouragement and success.Date: Monday, March 9, 2009Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pmLocation: Wooster Community Hospital/North AuditoriumStreet: 1761 Beall AveCity/Town: Wooster, OHWe hope to see you at our OASIS meeting March 9th.

Email: angelt@...

Website: http://www.oasisautism.org

Getting the Most from Your Private Health Insurance Plan

TOPIC: What to look for in a private health insurance plan if you have a child with a chronic illness and/or disability

How to get the most out of your health plan

Your responsibilities

The insurer’s responsibilities

The role of a case manager and how to request one

How to handle denials

What is “medically necessary care?â€

What is the process for making appeals?

Tips for making appeals

Special Situations

Pre-existing conditions

Job change or loss, divorce, family medical leave

Q & A workshop participants may bring one EOB they are having problems with or do not understand, and their insurance card

SPEAKER: Pat O’Sullivan, President of O’Sullivan Consulting Group Health Care Specialists

O’Sullivan Consulting Group incorporates the talents of specialists in areas of billing, credentialing, practice management and contract negotiations, assisting healthcare industry clients to be current on many changes within their profession.

DATE: Wednesday, March 4, 2009

TIME: Check in 6:15-6:30 pm

Program 6:30-8:30 pm

LOCATION: Cuyahoga Valley Career Center

8001 Brecksville Road

Brecksville, OH 44141

COST: $10.00

For more information or to register, call Kresnye at 216-229-5757, Ext. 126.

Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide professional advice or guidance for individual issues. For individual issues, consult with a qualified professional of your choice.

Kresnye

Program Manager

Tools for Today and Tomorrow

Mc House of Cleveland, Inc.

10415 Euclid Avenue

Cleveland, OH 44106-4709

www.toolsfortoday.org

216-229-5757, Ext. 126

The mission of the Tools for Today and Tomorrow Program is to improve life's journey for children with chronic illnesses or disabilities by providing information and support to the people who care for them.

Parent Training Seminars, Akron

SUPER LEARNING CENTER And the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with DisabilitiesIS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE HOSTING OF2 Parent Informational Seminars · April 9, 2009 Parents Rights for Special Education.· June 23, 2009 Understanding and living with a child that has special needs. Seminar information:· Register At www.brainchangers.com· Time-7-9pm · Location SUPER Learning Center· Cost FREE· Guest Speaker Lyke from Ohio Coalition 330-899-41192800 S. Arlington Road, Suite 100Akron, Ohio 44312

Request for Help ith Autism TV episode-Joni and Friends

Dear Friend, Joni needs your assistance with a television project about autism.We are looking for families affected by AUTISM to provide home video of their child. Here are the specifics:WHAT: The Christian Institute on Disability at Joni and Friends is producing a 30 minute television episode to bring autism awareness to the Church. This episode will address several myths about autism, will highlight some of the challenges families face and will provide resources to the local church to reach out and minister to families affected by autism. If you have not seen any of Joni's TV series, you can watch over 20 episodes for free by going to http://www.joniandfriendstv.org/. If you want to see how examples of Joni's TV program from a family affected by disability perspective, watch the episodes entitled 's World or When Robin PraysAs part of our desire to show some of the challenges of autism, we are asking families with a child with autism to participate by giving video footage of their child. We are looking for short clips that show 1) inappropriate behaviors and 2) appropriate behaviors. The reason for inappropriate behaviors clips is to show the challenges that families often face and to address the myth that behaviors are linked to poor parenting. CONTACT... if interested inproviding video or if you have questions that pertain to this project:If you are willing to give current home video that already exists or you are willing to shoot home video for this purpose, please indicate your willingness to us by February 17th, 2009. Please contact Donna Rousseve in the Joni and Friends Home Office at drousseve@... or by calling her at 818-707-5664After contacting us a release will be sent to you for your signature indicating that all rights and usage of the home video you send will belong exclusively to Joni and Friends to use as we decide.We are excited with Joni to see how this TV episode will encourage families and challenge the rest of the world in the growing opportunities due to autism

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR NAA-NEO's UPCOMING EVENTS AND WORKSHOPS!!February 23 - What can be tax-deductible?? A special session by CPAs from Skoda Minoti for just families with children with special needs. Will touch upon medical, dietary, educational and other disability-related expenses that can be tax-deductible. Location: Downtown Cleveland, Dollar Bank Conference Room, starting at 6:30 p.m. More information upcoming soon!March 12 - “Special Education Advocacy: Making the Most of Your Resources.†Presentation by attorney Judith Saltzman and Wetherbee, special education advocate. Topics will include basic IDEA eligibility, child find evaluations, IEP/FAPE requirements, negotiating with the school district, unilateral placements and legal remedies. Lots of time for Q and A's!! Location: Independence area TBA. More information coming soon.March 25 - Neurofeedback* - Presentation by Mershona Parshall, LISW, speaking about neurofeedback in a clinical therapy practice on at the Independence Library. Organized by Hauserman for members of the Autism-Biomed and Biomedical Intervention Groups of Ohio - meeting open to the public! Please email alyricss (DOT) com for more information. *This is a meeting supported by NAA-NEO but organized by Hauserman independently from NAA-NEO.March 27 - An Evening with Dan Zanes and Friends - Grammy-winning Danny performs a benefit concert with proceeds to go for NAA-NEO's Helping Hand Grants in 2009 - directly supporting children with autism and their families. For tickets and more information please go to www.autismnortheastohio.org/specail_events.php. March 31 - (Bio)Medical Testing Essentials - Presentation by Woodward (Shoemaker), Physician-to-parent liaison at C. DeMio's office, explaining all the different testing that could be performed to deterct underlying medical issues for your loved one with autism and other neurological disorders. will bring actual test kits and lab results to this meeting for a very hands on presentation! More information coming soon. Thank you! Other Important Notes and Announcements from NAA-NEOIf you would like to receive more of NAA-NEO's resource postings, join NAA-NEO's Group by sending a message to NAA-NEOhio-subscribe .2009 Helping Hand Grants UpdateWe will be announcing grant recipients for 2009 by the end of February 2009. We apologize about the delay. Should you not hear from us by that time please contact apattison@.... There is a very simple and great way to ensure that all of the close to 100 families that applied for a grant get funded!! HELP US FUND ALL FAMILIES by attending, volunteering at the event, distributing posters, and forwarding the email below to EVERYONE you know. Please contact me if you have any questions or if you need a clean copy of this email or posters mailed to you at apattison@.... Thank you

Article: College trains church leaders to help with autismA Catholic college in New Jersey is helping church leaders learn how to better include people with developmental disabilities in their religious services. "It's not just that we want little kids with autism to learn to sit quietly so they can go to church with the rest of us," said Beth Walsh, the mother of a boy with autism and an adjunct theology professor at Caldwell College, which is known for its applied behavioral analysis training program. "We want our faith communities to take the vanguard in showing how inclusion works." http://www.northjersey.com/health/autism020109.html

Article: Alternative autism therapy a less-expensive optionUtah clinical psychologist Barbara Kalmanson is proposing a cheaper alternative to applied behavior analysis for children with autism. DIR, or developmental individual difference relationship-based treatment, focuses more on the child's abilities and needs and can be administered by parents, making it far more cost-effective, she says. http://www.abc4.com/mostpopular/story/New-therapy-provides-inexpensive-treatment-for/MpWjYsOWF0KulTgrg3U3Yg.cspx

Paper: Landmark autism study misrepresented vaccine data Wakefield, the British doctor who first raised fears that childhood vaccines triggered autism, allegedly changed and misreported his research data, according to an investigation by London's Sunday Times. Most of the 12 patient cases reported in Wakefield's 1998 study were different from their official medical records, the paper reported. Wakefield denied the newspaper's claims through lawyers. http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article5683671.ece

Public Policy Sessions at The Ninth Annual Multiple Perspectives on Access, Inclusion, and Disability: Change, Challenge, & Collaboration April 28 - 29, 2009The Ohio State University Campus, Columbus Ohiohttp://ada.osu.edu/conferences.htm Over thirty sessions from . . . Voting Access to Museum AccessDisability Law to Disability NarrativeCommunity Inclusion to the UN Convention A SAMPLE OF PUBLIC POLICY SESSIONSA Call to Action: Preparing to Serve Wounded WarriorsThis year's Ken Memorial Lecture on Disability Policy, is free and open to the public Will feature D. Grossman, JD, Adjunct Instructor, Hastings College of Law, presenting in his private capacity and Lee Vance Ph.D., University of Wisconsin Superior. Following will be a community reception at the university’s Urban Arts Space featuring accessible tours of the MFA Thesis Exhibition and remarks by Georgina Kleege author & Disability Studies Scholar at Berkeley University. Public Policy Update: National Council on Disability and World Institute on Disability. Kathleen ez, Executive Director, World Institute on Disability, and Member, National Council on Disability; and Wetters, President, Consultant, Wetters and Associates, and Member, National Council on Disability. Better Access to Hospitals for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Deaf-BlindCommunities: Pittsburgh Takes Initiative in Improving the Services for the Disabled Communities. Meritzer, ADA Coordinator, Department of City Planning, City of Pittsburgh; Corkum, University of Pittsburgh Master of Public Administration Urban and Regional Analysis; and Ying Lee, Carnegie Mellon University Master of Product Development. Vote: State, County & College Collaboration to Ensure Polling Place Access. Brett Harbage, ADA Coordinator, Secretary of State's Office, State of Ohio; Florence Angelo, Graduate Student, Occupational Therapy Department, Allied Medicine, The Ohio State University; and Anne Deringer, Graduate Student, Occupational Therapy Department, Allied Medicine, The Ohio State University. More than the ADA: An Inventory of U.S. Disability Rights Laws. Doug Goeppner, MSW, LSW, ADA Coordinator, University of Southern Indiana. Educational Access to Assistive Technology, Web Access, Text Access. Staff, Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights The AccessText Information Network: An Association of American Publishers Digital Text Portal. Lee, Ph.D., University System of Georgia’s Alternative Media Access Center (AMAC) and engo, AccessText. FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION VISIThttp://ada.osu.edu/conferences.htm L. Lissner University ADA CoordinatorOffice of the ProvostThe Ohio State University(614) 292-6207 (614) 688-8605 (tty)lissner.2@... HTTP://ada.osu.edu

Free showing March 6th - Madagascar 2, Kent

For further info, please contact Dena Ferner direct at: dferner@...

Kent City Schools' Parent Mentor Program invites you to a Very Special Movie Night! On Friday, March 6th, we will be showing "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" in the Davey Elementary Auditorium located at 196 North Prospect Street. Students with Special Needs, their families, classmates and friends can all enjoy a FREE night out! Ice cream will be served from 6:30 – 7, when the movie begins. Everyone is welcome but children must have a parent or guardian present during the event. Please contact me, Dena Ferner, with any questions. Hope to see you there!

Free Job Training for Students Respite Training: Using Behavioral Strategies Participants will learn how to apply behavioral strategies for children with autism while giving respite services to families. Part I – Introduction to Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome; Behavioral Strategies for Effective play; How to Respond to Inappropriate Behaviors. Part II – Role-Playing and Video Presentation to Demonstrate New Skills. Milestones will keep names on file of participants who have attended the two day workshop for families interested in respite care for their children. Everyone attending will receive a Certificate of Participation. Kent State University Part I – Sunday, February 22 – 6:00-9:00 p.m. Location: 200 White Hall, KSUPart II – Monday, February 23 – 7:00-9:00 p.m.Location: Kent State Library, Room 220Cost: FREE (Sponsored by Alpha Xi Delta, Kent State University) To register call 216-371-4765, email milestonesorg@... or register online at www.milestones.org. Milestones always encourage families to do a thorough background check on any person they consider to work with their child.

New support group in Twinsburg area

Hello, Hope all is well. We have been listening to parents' needs and are now offering a (free) Parent Support Group. It will be one Sunday a month. The first one will be on Sunday, February 8th! We are also offering Respite Care (only $5) at the same time as the meeting, both will be at our therapy center. You only need to RSVP if you need Respite Care. Click here and go to the website for all the details:http://peakpotentialtherapy.com/supportgroup.htmlFor our location:http://peakpotentialtherapy.com/contact.htmlSee you on Sun., Feb. 8th at 3:00 pm!Best, Holly Reimann, MA CCC-SLP Speech-language Pathologist, Owner Peak Potential Therapy cell: 267-259-6461 office: 330-405-8776 http://PeakPotentialTherapy.com hreimannpeakpotentialtherapy

Disability Resources Website

http://www.disabilityscoop.com

Book: "Growing Up on the Spectrum" This title will be released on March 19, 2009.In Growing Up on the Spectrum: A Guide to Life, Love, and Learning for Teens and Young Adults with Autism and Asperger’s, Dr. Lynn Kern Koegel, of the renowned Koegel Autism Research Center, and LaZebnik, whose son has autism, tackle the issues that families with teenagers on the spectrum face. Growing Up on the Spectrum is separated into sections that address five distinct aspects of adolescence on the spectrum: friendship; romantic relationships; schooling; life beyond the college years; and improving daily life. With humor, humanity and many practical tips, Koegel and LaZebnik address universal parental concerns: first dates, crushes, changing bodies, how to get a job, social interactions, choosing a college and life beyond. As children with autism and Asperger’s have become adults, they’ve started to demand the world’s respect for their differences and recognition of their talents. In Growing Up on the Spectrum, Koegel and LaZebnik aim to acknowledge the need to embrace the wonderfully quirky and unique talents of many of these individuals, while still helping them adapt to society’s demands. As LaZebnik’s son grew up and entered high school, she realized the issues he was dealing with as a teenager on the spectrum were very different from the ones he faced earlier. As LaZebnik writes, “Suddenly, the question is not simply, ‘How do I teach my child this or that?’ but a much more complicated ‘How do I teach my child not to need me to teach him anymore?’†The stakes are higher and the risks are greater for kids who drive, go to parties where alcohol is served, live in college dorm rooms and fall in love—and yet are still more innocent and susceptible to manipulations than their peers. In Growing Up on the Spectrum, Koegel presents specific and tested interventions for improving your child’s ability to socialize and navigate the tricky worlds of school, family and friends in an accessible, jargon-free way, while LaZebnik reflects on her own successes (and occasional failures) in helping her son find his path in a world that isn’t always kind to those who are different. Additional pieces by LaZebnik’s 16-year-old son, , offer a unique first-person perspective.Learn more or purchase the book at Amazon.com.

Article: Kids With Autism Love This SoftwareA program created for architects is an unexpected hit with children on the spectrum.http://www.newsweek.com/id/179952

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