ASA-ASO DIGEST:April 20, 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 recommended to Full House by HAA Committee

- Watch the House vote on HB 8 LIVE!

- From OCALI: Improving School-Based Transition Services For Students With Disabilities: A Training For Parent Group Leaders

- A message from Governor Ted Strickland and State Superintendent Deb Delisle

- ASA and Chapters are listed with the BBB! Only Autism Charity Listed!

- Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities Accepting Advocacy Award Nominations

- Update on the Personal Care Assistance Program at RSC

- New PECS online module available from OCALI

- The Call for Proposals for OCALI Conference is now open!

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

- Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

- Federal Update/Alerts

Urge Congress to support Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2009

White House Holds Briefing for Disability Groups

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- ASA Teams Up with Little, Brown and Company to Promote Awareness through "The Horse Boy"

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

- ASA-Northwest Ohio Chapter presents: Practical Solutions Spring workshops – Toilet Training Your Child With Autism

- ASA-Northwest Ohio Chapter Mud Hen’s Family Event - Take Me Out to the Mud Hens Game

- Eat Out and raise funds for the ASA-Greater Akron Chapter

- April and May Meetings for ASA-Central Ohio Chapter

- Article: Why Fever Helps Autism: A New Theory

- Family Advocacy Conference, Boardman

- Book: My Strange and Terrible Malady

- Workshop: An Introduction to Autism for Parents and Professionals, Toledo

- Article: Student who overcame her own anxiety now counsels others

- Conference on Autism – Beyond the Basics, Mentor

- Two new programs for Young Adults with DD from the ARC of Lucas County

- Resource: Special Ed Connection

- United Way Family Information Network presents…YOUR HOUSE OR MINE?, Toledo

- Article: Teaching Autistic Teens To Make Friends

- Occupational Therapy Month

- Article: Helping Children with Executive Functioning Problems to Manage Physical Impulsiveness

- MCHB Webcast on Medical Homes for Children

- Alert: RSC Rules Changes Propose Cutting PCA Program Immediately

- WOSU features autism on their Webpage

- Article: Autism skews developing brain with synchronous motion and sound (w/Video)

- PLAN Planned Lifetime Assistance Network

- Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities Winter 2009 Newsletter Articles

- Webinar: The Medical Necessity of Occupational Therapy in Pediatric Developmental Disorders

- Greater Cleveland Asperger Support MEET AND EAT

ASA-ASO is now posting all research opportunities on our website. For information on available opportunities, visit our webpage www.autismohio.org, click on "Information" along the left side of the home page and then click on "Studies/Surveys". CHECK OUT NEW LISTINGS AND OPPORTUNITIES!

Have you purchased your Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate yet? To purchase yours, visit www.oplates.com and click on "Specialty Plates" or visit our website at www.autismohio.org for more information.

Sincerely,The Autism Society of America - Autism Society of Ohio Chapter701 S. Main St.Akron, OH 44311( 330) 376-0211fax: (330) 376-1226email: askASO@...web: www.autismohio.org Please note: This is provided for information purposes only. The ASA-ASO does not endorse or recommend any providers, methodologies or services. Providing this information should not be construed as an endorsement by the ASA-ASO, either explicit or implied.

News From ASA-ASO:

Autism Insurance Coverage Bill HB 8 recommended to Full House by HAA Committee

HB 8 has been favorably voted out of the House Healthcare Access and Affordability Committee!

Please use this link to write to your state representative and urge him or her to support HB 8.

The fourth hearing of HB 8, Autism Insurance Coverage, before the House Healthcare Access and Affordability Committee, held Wednesday, March 31, 2009 went very well. Many thanks to the individuals with autism, their families, se=rvice providers and other supporters who attended!

The Committee, chaired by Rep. Lorraine Fende, reviewed a variety of amendments to the bill. Rep. Garland, committee Vice-Chair and the co-sponsor of HB 8, introduced an amendment to the bill to clarify the language in some sections and to add an "opt out" if cost increases exceed 1%. This amendment was passed by the committee. The Republican committee members then introduced a variety of amendments intended mainly to limit the scope of the bill - a yearly cost cap of $36,000, an age limit for coverage to 13 years old, limiting the number of visits covered, exempting employers with 50 or less employees. All of these amendments were tabled and not included in the bill.

The committee then voted 10-3 to favorably recommend HB 8 to the full House for consideration with three of the Republican members - Reps. Hackett, Lehner and Snitchler - voting to support the bill! Rep. Lehner also signed on as a sponsor of the bill!

HB 8 will most likely be considered by the full House for a vote near the end of April after the General Assembly's spring break. ASA-ASO will provide information on when the vote will take place as soon as it is available.

This is a HUGE victory! Many thanks are due to co-sponsors Rep. Ted Celeste and Rep. Garland, HAA Chairwoman Rep. Lorraine Fende and the other members of the committee who supported this bill including Democrats Reps. Bolon, , Moran, Patten, B. and Republicans Reps. Hackett, Lehner and Snitchler. If one of these members is your legislator, please be sure to write and thank them for their support.

Now is the time to contact your representative and as them to support HB 8! Please use this link to write to your state representative and urge him or her to support HB 8.

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.

Watch the House vote on HB 8 LIVE!

Sessions of the Ohio General Assembly are broadcast live on "The Ohio Channel". There has been no indication of when the House will actually vote on HB 8, but when that information is available, ASA-ASO will publish it through all of our outlets. Interested parties should be able to go to the following website to watch the action live on the House Floor: http://www.ohiochannel.org/multimedia/organizations/organization.cfm?organization_id=31

From OCALI: Improving School-Based Transition Services For Students With Disabilities: A Training For Parent Group LeadersOCALI is collaborating with the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities to provide a training on transition for parents and parent support group leadesr on May 9, 2009. The training is free and parents who attend will receive free transitiion resource materials.

OCALI IS FUNDED IN PART BY the OHIO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - OFFICE FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN

http://www.ocali.org/pdf/ParentTraining_050909.pdf

A message from Governor Ted Strickland and State Superintendent Deb DelisleWe hope this letter finds your school year progressing smoothly.This letter is intended to provide you with an update on HB1 and the education reform included in the bill. This is an exciting time to be involved in education and we have an opportunity to reform our education organizations to better meet the demands of an increasingly global economy. There is no doubt that our world is changing at an alarming rate and our children will face a future whose parameters have yet to be defined. The time to address our educational system together is upon us. The conversation about educational reform has now begun in earnest in the General Assembly as part of HB1. It is important to keep in mind that our legislative process is one which invites, encourages, and results in proposals being changed – and hopefully improved – before they ever become law. Understandably, this conversation will result in some modifications to the proposals as meaningful suggestions come along or unintended consequences are revealed. However, we are committed to achieving the best future for Ohio’s children.Since the introduction of the reform plan, we have listened to the feedback of a wide range of stakeholders regarding the proposal. As a result of these critical conversations, we are aware of concerns about issues such as funding for certain low wealth districts and for programs for gifted students; the importance of balancing accountability with flexibility; and the practical reality that districts will need time to develop and implement changes ultimately enacted by the General Assembly. These concerns, along with others, are being reviewed and analyzed so that modifications are considered in a thoughtful manner.Additionally, continuing guidance from the federal government about the permissible and appropriate uses of stimulus bill funding may require additional adjustments and modifications to the proposal before it becomes law. We remain deeply grateful to Congress and the President for making federal stimulus funds – in the form of stabilization funds, IDEA and Title I – available to Ohio and for allowing us to use them to advance educational reform objectives. Stabilization funds will allow us to prevent many cuts in education spending which otherwise would have been unavoidable. Title I and IDEA stimulus funds will assist in efforts to provide quality education to special needs students and students disadvantaged by poverty. It is our intent and expectation that districts will receive the amount of Title I and IDEA federal stimulus money that federally established laws and formulas provide. Although districts will be allowed to spend these resources for permissible Title I and IDEA purposes, respectively, districts will be held accountable for spending these resources in compliance with the requirements of the federal stimulus bill itself – requirements which expressly include a demonstration that they are advancing educational reforms and having an impact on enhancing student achievement. The U.S. Department of Education has reminded us on many occasions that they view the purpose of the stimulus monies as “reform not conformâ€. As more details become available from the federal government, we will share these with you in order for you to plan for the most effective use of these monies in your districts.We are in regular consultation with the U.S. Department of Education to assure that we are complying with “maintenance of effort†and “non-supplanting†requirements. Even during this time of economic crisis, we are intent on maintaining Ohio's commitment to public education. The education reform proposal calls for the state and local share of funds to cover the costs of implementing the Ohio Evidence Based Model (OEBM). However, we do not expect that this new system can or should be implemented overnight. Indeed, we believe that the 2009-2010 school year should be viewed as a year to begin planning for those reform components which will begin for the first time in August 2010. We will ask the legislature to make it clear that the Ohio Department of Education may, and should, establish, by Administrative Rule, the phase-in schedule for all of the various components of the model. In this way, the Department can continually receive input and feedback about implementation from you and others, making appropriate adjustments throughout the multi-year implementation schedule. This transition will also allow for the Department to assist districts in building capacity for modifying current practices. Additional details about the phase-in of specific components will be shared in the near future.Federal stimulus IDEA and Title I funds will be made available to districts as soon as they are received and can be properly distributed in accordance with the many accounting requirements attached to them. Districts will be strongly encouraged to use these funds for permissible IDEA and Title I purposes that advance elements of the OEBM which may not yet be required in FY2011, but which will be on the near term horizon. In this way, districts can accomplish another of the federal stimulus fund requirements – that they avoid spending these funds on operational activities that are unsustainable. Since the reform proposal contemplates increasing state funding over time, more funds will be available to the districts as more components of the OEBM are phased-in. Targeted expenditures of Title I and IDEA funds can begin district efforts on future requirements of the OEBM – with those costs picked up by increased state funding which will be available after the federal stimulus funds are gone. Our students need us now more than ever. Bringing about the education reforms for which we have all hoped will not be easy. However, we are convinced that our collective focus on the needs of Ohio’s students and your daily dedication to bettering Ohio’s education system will assist us as this process continues to unfold. Please know that we appreciate your dedication to Ohio's children. Together we can strengthen the future of Ohio.Sincerely, Ted Strickland Deborah S. DelisleGovernor Superintendent of Public Instruction

ASA and Chapters listed with the BBB! Only Autism Charity Listed!

The April 14th issue of the USA Today features a Better Business Bureau full-page ad that lists charities that have the organization's accredited seal. There is only one autism charity listed - the Autism Society of America. The ad can be found in the special bonus section on “Sharing in the USA.†It is on page 5E. The Better Business Bureau seal assures donors that the charities meet the 20 rigorous BBB Wise Giving Alliance standards. We’re proud to be among their number.

Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities Accepting Advocacy Award Nominations

The Ohio Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities is seeking nominations for the‘Advocacy Award.’ This award recognizes a person or group who has demonstrated outstandingcontributions to people with disabilities, and recipients are honored for a new initiative or asignificant improvement to an existing program that materially improves the quality of life forone or more individuals with disabilities. One or more of the following components also wouldneed to be demonstrated:

· Positively impacting laws and/or regulations for the individual or population(s) withdisabilities;· Flexibility in design, addressing future needs or newly identified populations ofindividuals with disabilities;· Having the potential to be taught or replicated across the State;· Raising public awareness regarding issues related to disability.

News, government and disability-focused organizations from the following areas also areencouraged to apply:· Newspaper, TV, radio and other commercial communication venues;· Business Publications (examples: Business First, Columbus CEO, etc.);· Ohio’s local and state Chambers of Commerce and local governmental units;· Members of the Ohio House and Senate, and Ohio members of the U.S. House andSenate;· The Governor’s Office;· The Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission; Statewide Independent Living Council;Ohio Legal Rights Service Commission; Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council; otheragencies serving the state; and,· Members and former members of The Ohio Governor’s Council on People withDisabilities.

The Advocacy Award will be presented at the annual Governor’s Council on People withDisabilities meeting August 20, 2009. Nominations must be postmarked by May 15, 2009.For nomination forms, contact the Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities at1-800-282-4536, Ext. 1392, or visit the website at: http://gcpd.ohio.gov/AdvocacyAward.asp

Contact Person: A. Hinton, Executive Director, Governor's Council on People with Disabilities,Office 614 438-1393, Fax 614-985-8967

Update on the Personal Care Assistance Program at RSCFrom the Disability Policy Coalition On April 15, the RSC Commissioners announced that they are pulling the proposed rule to reduce and eventually eliminate the PCA Program. The hearing scheduled for April 27, 2009 has been cancelled. Advocacy Works! The Commissioners heard the voices of people with disabilities loud and clear. This action delays changes to the PCA program., while RSC considers other options. Advocates have asked to be at the table as changes to this important program are considered

New PECS online module available from OCALI

The Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) leads the Autism InternetModule (AIM) project primarily through a grant from the Ohio Department ofEducation. This project is a collaborative effort with the Autism Society ofAmerica (ASA), the Nebraska Department of Education/Autism Spectrum DisordersNetwork, The National Professional Development Center on Autism SpectrumDisorders, and Geneva Centre for Autism, Toronto, Canada. In addition, ArizonaDepartment of Education and the Indiana Resource Center for Autism havecollaborated on content development for the AIM project. The AIM project willdevelop a series of 80 online modules including characteristics, diagnosis,interventions and supports, transition, and employment. Module authors includeexperts from across the nation.The partners are pleased to announce the launch of our newest module, ThePicture Exchange Communication System (PECS). The National ProfessionalDevelopment Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders (www.fpg.unc.edu/~autismPDC) hasprovided the content for this module. Content was adapted from and with specialthanks to: Frost, L. A., & Bondy, A. S. (2002). The Picture exchangecommunication system training manual (2nd ed.). Newark, DE: Pyramid EducationalProducts, Inc.Please see Pyramid Educational Products, Inc. at www.pyramidproducts.com forthe PECS manual and other resources to make implementation more efficient[Visit http://www.autisminternetmodules.org to access the module]

OCALI IS FUNDED IN PART BY the OHIO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - OFFICE FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN

The Call for Proposals for OCALI Conference is now open!

Download a copy of the submission requirements at the OCALI Conference website:[ www.ocali.org ]Deadline for proposal submission: Friday, May 8, 2009The primary goal of the 2009 OCALI Conference is to further state- and system-wide capacity to improve programs, implementation, support and overall outcomes for those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and low-incidence disabilities (such as hearing impairments, visual impairments, traumatic brain injury (TBI), orthopedic impairments, etc.). The program will be comprised of over 120 sessions covering a variety of topic areas related to the systems in which individuals with ASD and other low-incidence disabilities participate and will cover the lifespan from early intervention through transition to adulthood.Some of the topic areas include:**Assessment, identification and diagnosis**Assistive technology**Behavior strategies**Classroom and instructional strategies**Comprehensive programming**Early intervention**Family systems and support**Models of training**School-based initiatives**Statewide systems and initiatives**Transition to adulthoodOCALI seeks presenters from a variety of disciplines and from all system levels to submit for the following types of sessions:**Lecture Presentation (75 minutes - 1 to 2 presenters)**Poster Display (60 minutes - 1 to 2 presenters)**Panel Discussion (75 minutes - 4 presenters)All presenters receive complimentary registration to the 2009 OCALI Conference and Exposition. All other expenses, including but not limited to travel, food, lodging, copies of handouts, and presentation equipment/software needed for the presentation are the sole responsibility of the presenter.Please note: All submissions must be made online and in English. All sessions will be conducted in English.Deadline for proposal submissions: Friday, May 8, 2009For more information and to download a copy of the submission requirements, please visit the OCALI Conference website:[ www.ocali.org ]

OCALI IS FUNDED IN PART BY the OHIO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - OFFICE FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN

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

White House Holds Briefing for Disability GroupsIn their efforts to carry through on a promise for openness and transparency, the White House hosted a special briefing for CEOs of the nation's top disability groups on Wednesday, April 15. Lee Grossman, ASA President and CEO, represented the Autism Society of America at the meeting. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=VlA7hGmvR9lJy1Ce9WN_tA..

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc.:

ASA Teams Up with Little, Brown and Company to Promote Awareness through "The Horse Boy"The Autism Society of America joins Little, Brown publishing and author Rupert Isaacson in announcing a series of events this April to promote autism awareness and empower families affected by autism. In "The Horse Boy," released on April 14, Isaacson shares his inspiring story of how he and his wife learned to think of their son's autism as an adventure rather than a curse, a beginning rather than an end. Both ASA and the book aim to empower families to think creatively and openly when it comes to treatment. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=JphYb3bSOkHr2gyRQGLcEA..

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

ASA-Northwest Ohio Chapter presents: Practical Solutions Spring workshops – Toilet Training Your Child With Autism

May 14Workshop description: If you are planning to toilet train your child or have tried to teach your child to use the toilet but have not been successful, come learn how to evaluate why your child is having difficulties, and learn specific strategies to make your child successful. Participants will: learn your child's current elimination patterns, learn how to develop a toileting plan that addresses your individual child's toileting needs, and learn procedures and strategies to teach your child to use the toilet and troubleshoot problems that may arise. About the speaker: Kim Renner holds a Masters Degree in Clinical Behavioral Psychology, a Limited License in Psychology in the State of Michigan, and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Kim currently works as a private ABA/autism consultant in SE Michigan and NW Ohio and has presented workshops and lectures on various topics related to autism. She is inspired by her teenage son with autism. Who should attend: Parents and professionals who want to try (again) to teach a young child or older child to use the toilet. Parents of children with other disabilities are also welcome to attend. This is an introductory workshop. No previous training is required. Toilet Training: Thursday, May 14, 20099:30 – NoonLucas County Board of MR/DD Family First Zone1155 Larc LaneToledo, OH 43614Cost: $10 per parent; $15 per professional NOTE: You must pre-register for these workshops.This workshop is partially funded by a grant from the Lucas County Board of MR/DD.

To register, contact ASA-ASNO at asno.org@...

ASA-Northwest Ohio Chapter Mud Hen’s Family Event - Take Me Out to the Mud Hens GameCome join us for an afternoon of fun.We are reserving a section of seats at Fifth Third Field for our families to sit together and enjoy the game. Family and friends are welcome. When: Sunday, April 26Game starts at 2 PM = Where: Fifth Third Field406 WashingtonToledo, OH Admission: Tickets must be purchased in advance from the Autism Society for $8 per ticket (a one dollar discount per ticket.) To purchase tickets: Call the office at 419-578-2766. PLEASE purchase your tickets NO LATER THAN Friday, April 24.EXTRA: For every ticket you purchase, your loved one with autism will have a chance to win the opportunity to throw out the first pitch of the game.

Contact ASA-ASNO at:

Autism 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

Eat Out and raise funds for the ASA-Greater Akron Chapter

On Tuesday, April 28, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, Bricco Restaurant has agreed to donate 20% of its food proceeds to the local chapter of the Autism Society of America. All you have to do is come downtown, between 5:00 and 8:00 PM (if it's after they will let you slide) and eat. That's it! The donation is made by your eating dinner.

Guest servers that night will be (so far)....Prosecutor Sherri Bevan Walsh and Mayor Don Plusquellic.

As a bonus, it's also Bricco's open cork night, which means if you don't finish your bottle of wine, you can take it home. Make it a date night, Girl's Night, or night out with friends, but come to Bricco! It's a great charity. Please be sure to call and make a reservation in advance and tell them your coming for the Autism Society fundraiser (330) 475-1600. (See map for location: http://www.briccoakron.com/akron.php)

April and May Meetings for ASA-Central Ohio Chapter

On Wednesday, April 29, 7 p.m. Dr. Maureen Geraghty, who holds a Ph.D. in Medical Dietetics, teaches at the Ohio State University and participates in clinic activities at the Nisonger Center as a LEND faculty member, will be presenting. Dr. Geraghty has a special interest in nutrition in autism spectrum disorders and supplementation questions. Our May Meeting will be a parent support meeting.Both meetings will be at lin County MRDD, 2879 stown Rd. in Columbus.

For

Central Ohio Chapter Autism Society of America c/o 286 Weydon Rd.Worthington, OH 43085. To reach us by telephone, please call 614-487-4720 Extension 301 or 1-800-875-2723 Extension 301.centralohioasa@...

Article: Why Fever Helps Autism: A New Theory http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1889436,00.html

Family Advocacy Conference

Northeast Branch of the ARC Presents the First Annual Family Advocacy Conference May 29, 2009 Holiday Inn7410 South Ave.Boardman, Ohio 44512 Purpose This conference is designed to provide parents, siblings, and caregivers of individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities with quality information in many areas that affect those with special needs. Attendees will become more informed and prepared in decision-making and planning for the future. This event provides a wonderful opportunity to meet other family members with similar circumstances, as well as gathering information from participating care providers and other service agencies. We need to help each other as we navigate through this journey. Counselors, Social Workers, MRDD staff and other professionals will gain a better understanding of Special Needs Trusts, Guardianship, the Autism Scholarship Program and how to utilize these services when working with special needs individuals and their families.

**The Arc of Ohio Northeast Branch would like to thank the Mahoning County Board of MRDD for their generous sponsorship of this event.** Agenda 8a.m. – 8:45a.m. Registration/Continental Breakfast 8:45a.m –9:00a.m. Welcome 9a.m. – 10:30a.m. Atty. Rusu - Special Needs Trusts 10:30a.m. – 12p.m. Judge Mark Belinky - Guardianship 12 noon - 1p.m. Buffet Lunch 1p.m.– 2p.m. Director , MRDD - o Budget and Effects on the MRDD System 2p.m.– 3p.m. Kathleen Shelby, Department of Education - Autism Scholarship Program 3p.m.– 4p.m. Tonks Executive Director, The Arc of Ohio - Family Support Service4p.m.– Evaluations/Adjourn Registration Information Counselors and Social Workers: This program is co-sponsored by Help Hotline Crisis Center, Inc. and approved by the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker Board for 6 contact hours. Help Hotline Crisis Center, Inc. is approved to provide counselor and social worker continuing education credits. (RCS-019401) This program is approved by the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities for 6 CPE’s. Families, Parents/Caregivers, Siblings: $25.00 per person Counselors, Social Workers, MRDD staff, other professionals: $40.00 per personVendors: $40.00 per person Includes 6ft. skirted table and meals Please complete the registration form and send along with payment (can accept check, cash, or money order) payable to: MCCRC/The Arc 3024 Center Rd. (Rt. 224)Poland, Ohio 44514(330) 707-1134 *Deadline for registration is May 15, 2009*

Book: My Strange and Terrible Maladyby BristowSurviving the teenage years isn't easy. Especially, if you've just found out why you're feeling so, totally, different from the rest of the kids at school.In My Strange and Terrible Malady, Ronita Baker, 11th-grade individualist, is not happy. Doctors just diagnosed her with Asperger Syndrome. It's hard enough being the misfit daughter of a perfect mother. School isn't much easier.

http://www.asperger.net/bookstore_9011.htm

Workshop: An Introduction to Autism for Parents and Professionals

Project I CAN - “Informed Community through Autism Networkingâ€Presents: AUTISM WORKSHOPAn Introduction to Autism for Parents and Professionals Developed by Bowling Green State University School of Intervention ServicesFunded by a Family Empowerment Grant through Lucas County Board of MRDDIn cooperation with: The Crossroads Community Center DATE: April 22, 2009 TIME: 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. LOCATION: 4543 Road Toledo, OH 43613 419-475-3258

This workshop will focus an introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders and recommended strategies for working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders at home and in the community.

For further information please feel free to email Ms. Andie Ryley aryley@...

Article: Student who overcame her own anxiety now counsels others

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/special-school-help-2356751-pefley-want

Conference on Autism – Beyond the BasicsFriday April 24th & Saturday April 25th, 2009Lakeland Community College Performing Arts Center Kirtland, Ohio. Download Information and Registration Brochure here.( Will feature speaking and hands on sessions with many national and local experts in the field of ASD. This conference will provide the newest information and resources on several themes: Visual strategies, communication, adolescence and transition planning, classroom strategies, and much more. This conference is essential to parents, intervention specialists, educators, health care professionals, caregivers and anyone who wants to learn more about new services and treatment for children and adults living with Autism Spectrum Disorder! Call Deepwood Foundation at 440-350-5208 for further information. http://www.deepwoodfoundation.org/2009/09AutismConfFlyerApp.pdf

Two new programs for Young Adults with DD from the ARC of Lucas County

People First Generation 2 (Gen2) The Arc of Lucas County and the Lucas County Board ofMR/DD are pleased to offer a new program for young adults. People First Generation 2 (Gen2) will be run by and for young adults with developmental disabilities. The goal of the program will be for participants to have fun, make friends, and learn how to get what you need in your life and will involve a mix of trainings and gatherings held at the Ability Center and at local “fun†destinations. Members learn new things about life as an adult and increase their communication and social skills. Individuals with developmental disabilities develop their capacities, strengths, and skills to shape their own lives and succeed as members of the community. Participants must provide own transportation. Participants must attend training sessions in order to attend community excursions. Who can join: Young adults with developmental disabilities, ages 18-25. When: 1st and 3rd Thursday each month, 4:30-6:00 p.m. How to join: Call the Arc at 419-882-0941, ext 2 or email: jeanb@... The Arc of Lucas County Ready to Work Academy Ready to Work Academy provides young adults and graduating seniors (ages 18-25) with information and tools about what they need to get a job, interview skills, and how to be a good employee, via classroom work, role-play experiences, and one-on-one mentoring. A parent workshop is offered to help parents understand and reinforce what their sons/daughters are learning. There is no charge for individuals who are eligible for services from Lucas County Board of MR/DD. July 28 - August 7, 2009 10:00am - 2:00pm (Tuesday - Friday) For more information, call the Arc at 419-882-0941.

Special Ed Connection

Welcome to Special Ed Connection® - the one-stop reference center for all your special education needs. Only Special Ed Connection® delivers the most timely and important news, case law, statutes, regulations, and more. You also get coverage from our Washington, D.C., bureau on critical special education issues in Congress, OSERS/OSEP, OCR and other federal agencies - giving you exclusive insight into, and solutions for, challenges you face every day. http://www.specialedconnection.com/LrpSecStoryTool/splash.jsp

United Way Family Information Network presents…YOUR HOUSE OR MINE?

Your House or Mine? Is a parent-to-parent group exploring issues related to our children withdisabilities living outside the family home or with supports in their present home. That may mean anapartment, roommates, a group home or a larger facility or dealing with supports in your own home.Our children’s financial supports, housing , age and disability may differ from each other, but what weas their parents go through is pretty much the same. This group will explore the many issues of ourchildren “growing up†and “moving onâ€. This group grew out of one mom’s needs to hear fromexperienced parents before she tackled the choices of where her adult son would live, work and play.

Next Meeting: Date: Tuesday, April 28, 2009Time: 6:30 pmLocation : Home of Lyn & Bill Doll6536 towne Court,Toledo, OH 43615Phone: 419.841.7993

Topic: COMMUNITY (RECREATION) INCLUSIONSpeaker: nne Mader, Coordinator, CommunityInclusion, Lucas County Board of MR/DDJoin us for a night of a speaker and discussion on inclusive recreation that isavailable for our children and ideas for creating others.

We will try to answer the following questions?􀂃 What interest your child?􀂃 Is it out there or not?􀂃 Is it inclusive or by invitation only?􀂃 Where is the time and energy to get this accomplished?PLEASE RSVP TO:Diane at 419-254-4645Email: diane.frazee@...- OR -Lyn at 419-380-5435Email: Ldoll@...

Article: Teaching Autistic Teens To Make Friends

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090407174813.htm

Occupational Therapy MonthApril is Occupational Therapy Month. This year’s theme is autism. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports one in every 150 children born have or develop autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It is the fastest-growing developmental disability, with an annual growth rate of approximately 10 to 17 percent. Occupational therapy practitioners help to identify the early signs or indicators of ASD, support children and their families to participate in daily routines, and promote function when facing barriers or difficulties typically associated with this disorder. In schools, occupational therapy practitioners help students with autism achieve greater success in academic performance and social participation. For more information about Occupational Therapy Month, visit http://www.promoteot.org/AI_OTMonth.html.

Article: Helping Children with Executive Functioning Problems to Manage Physical Impulsiveness http://www.ldonline.org/article/29048

MCHB Webcast on Medical Homes for Children

Date: Tuesday, April 21, 2009, 3:00-4:00 pm Eastern

http://www.aucd.org/template/event.cfm?event_id=1762 & id=289 & parent=289

This MCHB-sponsored Webcast highlights efforts to support the implementation of medical home across multiple stakeholder groups, including an overview of the medical home concept and an update on the activities of the American Academy of Pediatrics' National Center for Medical Home Implementation. Other presenter's will share the employer perspective on primary care and the medical home, discuss the importance of medical homes to children in foster care and how the ing Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 can help promote coordination of care and medical home use, and share lessons learned from state-based, multi-stakeholder medical home efforts.

Alert: RSC Rules Changes Propose Cutting PCA Program Immediately Everyone agrees that jobs are needed to help this economy recover. So WHY is the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission proposing cuts for a program that helps people with severe disabilities find and keep jobs? On March 27, the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission announced their intent to seek a rule change to the Personal Care Assistance (PCA) Program that would speed up termination of PCA services to Ohioan’s with disabilities. Here’s what the rules propose:Eliminate the waiting list and accept no new applications Eliminate services that help participants get re-employed if their job is lost Terminates services to workers who need a PCA to maintain employment in twelve months Terminate services to individuals seeking employment with the assistance of a PCA in twelve months Terminate services to individuals who need a PCA to live independently in twelve months These proposed changes have received little to no input from program participants or the general public. The changes will cut the PCA program even more than the two-year operating budget currently being considered in the Ohio House of Representatives. When combined, both proposals serve as a “Double Whammy†to the PCA Program, services that enable people with severe disabilities to work and live independently. However, there is still a chance for your voice to be heard and to have an impact. Advocates have several options to provide input. Option 1: Attend the Public Hearing and voice your position on this change. The hearing is scheduled for Monday, April 27, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. in the Scioto Room at ORSC:400 E. Campus View Blvd.Columbus, OH 43235 (Map It)Option 2: Send A Letter to the commissioners of ORSC. Letters can be sent to the address listed in Option 1. Option 3: Send a Letter to the The Disability Policy Coaltion, c/o Beverly , 995 Goodale Blvd., Suite 2, Columbus, Ohio 43212. The Coalition will be testifying and can include your letters as supporting documentation of public input.Option 4: All of the above! THE PCA PROGRAM HAS SUPPORTED HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AND GIVEN THEM THE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK AND LIVE IN THEIR OWN COMMUNITIES. LET’S MAKE SURE THIS PROGRAM SUPPORTS EVEN MORE PEOPLE IN THE FUTURE!!!!!

For additional information contact: Sue Hetrick, The Ability Center670 on Rd., Suite 200 
Gahanna, Ohio 43230
614-575-8055 or toll free 866-575-8055
shetrick@...

WOSU features autism on their Webpage

http://www.wosu.org/autism/

Article: Autism skews developing brain with synchronous motion and sound (w/Video)

March 29th, 2009 in Medicine & Health / Diseases Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) tend to stare at people's mouths rather than their eyes. Now, an NIH-funded study in 2-year-olds with the social deficit disorder suggests why they might find mouths so attractive: lip-sync—the exact match of lip motion and speech sound. Such audiovisual synchrony preoccupied toddlers who have autism, while their unaffected peers focused on socially meaningful movements of the human body, such as gestures and facial expressions."Typically developing children pay special attention to human movement from very early in life, within days of being born. But in children with autism, even as old as two years, we saw no evidence of this," explained Ami Klin, Ph.D., of the Yale Child Study Center, who led the research. "Toddlers with autism are missing rich social information imparted by these cues, and this is likely to adversely affect the course of their development."[Video Presentation available at the website http://www.physorg.com/news157558974.html ]Pat-a-cake animation, with audio playing at half-speed and color scale indicating levels of audiovisual synchrony in child with autism. The hands clapping show the highest levels of audiovisual synchrony (red) in the figure on the right, which played upright and forward. Motion was out of sync with the sound track in the figure on the left, because it played upside down and in reverse. Credit: Ami Klin, Ph.D., Warren , Ph.D., Yale Child Study CenterKlin, Warren , Ph.D., and colleagues at Yale, report the findings of their study, funded in part by the National Institute of Health's National Institute of Mental Health, online March 29, 2009 in the journal Nature. For the first time, this study has pinpointed what grabs the attention of toddlers with ASDs," said NIMH Director R. Insel, M.D. "In addition to potential uses in screening for early diagnosis, this line of research holds promise for development of new therapies based on redirecting visual attention in children with these disorders." A eureka moment in the research came when researchers followed up on a clue from children's responses to audiovisual synchrony embedded in a nursery rhyme cartoon. While it was known that people with autism do not spontaneously orient to social signals, it was unclear what early-emerging mechanism may contribute to that. Nor was it clear exactly what they were attending to instead. To find out, Klin, and colleagues tracked the eye movements of two-year-olds with and without the disorder while they looked at cartoon animations on split-screen displays.[Video Presentation available at the website http://www.physorg.com/news157558974.html ]Eye-tracking data shows where toddlers in each of three groups were looking during the Pat-a-Cake animation. It plays upright and forward on the left side of screens, upside down and in reverse on the right side. Red cross indicates where the child was looking. Toddler with autism is focused on audiovisual synchrony of hands clapping, while typically developing and developmentally delayed toddlers focus on face. Credit: Ami Klin, Ph.D., Warren , Ph.D., Yale Child Study CenterThe researchers borrowed a technique from the video game industry, called motion capture. They then reduced the movements to only points of light at each joint in the body, like animated constellations. These cartoons played normally - upright and forward - on one half of the screen, but upside-down and in reverse on the other half. The inverted presentation engages different brain circuits and is known to disrupt perception of biological motion in young children. The normal soundtrack of the actor's voice, recorded when the animations were made, accompanied the presentations. Eye-tracking data initially showed that 21 toddlers with ASD had no preference for the upright animations, looking back and forth between the two. By contrast, 39 typically-developing toddlers and 16 developmentally delayed but non-autistic toddlers clearly preferred the upright animations. However, responses to one animation didn't fit the pattern. The toddlers with ASD changed their behavior and shifted their attention to the upright figure as it played a game of pat-a-cake, where the figure claps his hands repeatedly. In this animation (see movie below), unlike the others, the movements of the points of light actually cause the clapping sound. This physical synchrony—dots colliding to produce a clapping sound—only existed on the upright side of the screen, because the inverted figure played in reverse and its motions weren't in sync with the soundtrack. The children with ASD chose the upright figure 66 percent of the time, a strong preference. This clue led the researchers to suspect that what initially appeared to be random viewing by the ASD toddlers might actually reflect preference for audiovisual synchronies that were less obvious than the clapping. So they re-analyzed the data, factoring in more subtle synchronous changes in motion and sound. "Audio-visual synchronies accounted for about 90 percent of the preferred viewing patterns of toddlers with ASD and none of unaffected toddlers," said . "Typically-developing children focused instead on the most socially relevant information." A follow-up experiment using new animations optimized for audiovisual synchrony confirmed these results. Klin, , and colleagues also recently reported that children with autism look more at peoples' mouths than eyes as early as age 2. Since the mouth is the facial feature with most audiovisual synchrony - lip motion with speech sound - the researchers propose that their new findings offer a likely explanation for this phenomenon. "Our results suggest that, in autism, genetic predispositions are exacerbated by atypical experience from a very early age, altering brain development," said Klin. "Attention to biological motion is a fundamental mechanism of social engagement, and in the future, we need to understand how this process is derailed in autism, starting still earlier, in the first weeks and months of life." More information: Two-year-olds with autism fail to orient toward human biological motion but attend instead to non-social physical contingencies. Klin A, Lin DJ, Gorrindo P, Ramsay G, W. Nature. 2009 Mar 29 [Epub ahead of print]Source: NIH/National Institute of Mental Healthhttp://www.physorg.com/news157558974.html

PLAN Planned Lifetime Assistance Network

"We applaud approaches like PLAN that help families to help their own family members." Hogan, Ph.D., Director, Ohio Dept. of Mental Health

Who will care for my loved one when I no longer can?Caring for a relative with mental illness or another disability can be a difficult and unsettling issue. But a deeper source of concern to many families and friends is how to provide for the required level of care when the family or friend is no longer able or available to do so. Until recently there was no satisfactory answer to this dilemma that did not involve siblings or other relative's agreement to take on the responsibility. Alternatively, a trust officer or attorney was appointed as guardian, a task which could involve distance and expense. Today we are more fortunate. The Planned Lifetime Assistance Network (PLAN) offers - among other things - peace of mind by assisting in setting up a service plan (contracted services) which maintains continued care and supervision of the disabled person. As a response to the concerns of families with a mentally disabled member, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) established a Guardianship and trust Network in the early 1980s. The need for an organized, effective and affordable way to support family members with disabilities both now and in the future has led to the development of Planned Lifetime Assistance Network (PLAN) organizations across the country.

What Types of Services Will PLAN Provide? Anything that will help individuals become more self-sufficient and enhance the quality of life. This can vary from appointment of a representative payee to help with management of finances, to simply being there as a friend or companion, from encouraging or assisting in a crisis to helping learn living skills or finding suitable housing.

Who Will Provide Services? A qualified professional - a Family Advocate -will guide your loved one in organizing daily chores, recreational activities, and living and financial arrangements. This professional will also help in preparing the personal plan of care according to the needs of your family, your loved one, and/or guardian. While PLAN's day-to-day operations are managed by a competent, experienced staff of professionals committed to working with families, the overall direction of each PLAN is determined by a volunteer Board of Directors composed of consumers of services and family members of disabled persons. The Board meets regularly to make sure that the quality of services provided by each PLAN is the best and most relevant. Any family that receives services from PLAN may participate in Board activities.

Who Does PLAN Serve? Families and friends of disabled persons are served directly by PLAN, but all the plans are for the benefit of the entire family. It is crucial to the PLAN organization that your loved one lives as independently as possible and, as the direct result of carefully planned arrangements, lives a life of quality. PLAN is not limited to serving families who have relatives with a mental illness, but also works with families who have members with other disabilities (mental retardation, head injury, etc.). An important feature of PLAN is to advocate - to bridge any gaps that may exist between the family, community service agencies, and the disabled individual."PLAN can give families comfort in knowing they can provide additional security for their loved ones even after they are gone." Velma Beale, Past President, NAMI Ohio

Does PLAN Affect Benefits?Enrollment in PLAN will not jeopardize current government benefits (SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, etc.).

How Does PLAN Work? PLAN staff and family members work together to determine needs and resources and to develop a Personal Plan of Care for each family. Services may vary somewhat from PLAN to PLAN, but in general, there may be services which families want to utilize right away, such as regular personal contact, transportation, liaison with family, client, and/or community services and agencies, monitor to assure continuation of benefits, representative payee, money management, household and personal shopping, prevention or resolution of a crisis or legal difficulty. Future services enable a family to anticipate the future needs of a loved one through a Personal Plan of Care which takes into account the unique situation faced by each family, and which attempts to provide a comprehensive care plan throughout the life of the disabled person. This includes financial and estate planning to insure that the individual continues to receive public benefits and entitlements.

Where is the Nearest PLAN Located? There are now PLANs similar to those in Ohio in more than a dozen states across the nation with more than 18 individual programs in existence. It is expected that in due time there will be at least one or more PLANs in all fifty states. PLAN programs in Ohio are members of the National PLAN Alliance, endorsed by NAMI. There are currently five PLANs operating in Ohio. PLAN of Northwest Ohio provides service in 22 counties. For further information or to enroll, contact Brock, PLAN of Northwest Ohio, United Health Services, 419-242-9587 or e-mail: b@... PLAN of Northeast Ohio may be contacted at: 3130 Mayfield Rd., Suite GW 112, Cleveland Hts, OH 44118, or call (216) 321-3611 for more information or to set up an appointment with a PLAN Family Advocate. PLAN of Southeast Ohio may be contacted at: NAMI Athens, 100 Hospital Drive, Athens, OH 45701, or call (740) 593-6919. www.namiathensohio.orgPLAN of Southwest Ohio, Inc. may be contacted at:8075 Reading Rd., Suite 214, Cincinnati, OH 45237, phone 513-821-6111, Fax 513-821-6141, or e-mail: planofsouthwestoh@... . Dr. A. Martz, Executive Director is available for consultation in the office during normal office hours.PLAN of Central Ohio, (plan-co), may be contacted at; Anita Rigsby Szuch, MA; Executive Director, 1221 Riverside Drive, Columbus, OH 43221, Phone: (614) 586-4049, Fax: (614) 596-4051, e-mail planco@... Visit the website. Contact the National Plan Alliance at 193 Woodlawn Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, phone: 518-587-3372.

Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities Winter 2009 Newsletter Articles

http://www.ocecd.org/ocecd/res.cfm?resourceTypeID=25

Webinar: The Medical Necessity of Occupational Therapy in Pediatric Developmental DisordersDate/Time: Thursday, April 30, 2009 at 11:00 AM PDTWebinar Agenda:Discuss the role and medical necessity of Occupational Therapy in the treatment of: Autism Spectrum Disorder Sensory Integrative Disorder Pediatric Feeding DisorderLive Q & A Session For more information or to register, go to:http://www.allmedmd.com/landing-pages/webinars/the-medical-necessity-of-occupational-therapy-in-pediatric-developmental-disorders?gclid=CP_S1-bT85kCFctL5Qod72NIQg

Greater Cleveland Asperger Support MEET AND EAT For parents and caregivers of children affected by Asperger's Syndrome and other Autistic Spectrum Disorders Come for an informal meeting of sharing, support and exchange of information. Monday, April 27th 6:30 pm (latecomers ok - we will adjourn between 8 - 8:15 pm) PerkinsBagley & Engle Roads (just west of I-71 exit)Middleburg Heights, OH http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en & q=7175+Engle+Road,+Middleburg+Heights,+Ohio & oe=UTF-8 & ie=UTF8 & ei=QzbnSYeWGZGctgPqoonyAQ & cd=1 & ll=41.37478,-81.823962 & spn=0.006731,0.010836 & z=16 & iwloc=A Menu includes sandwiches, salads, dinners as well as breakfasts. Children's menus are available.* Come for a meal or just drop in for coffee/tea. RSVP to gcas21@... , so we will know what size table to reserve and be able to communicate any important changes. *If you don't have a sitter, my hubby and daughters have offered to help entertain a small number of kids at a nearby table (with the understanding that you will be available to supervise if needed). We will bring games, puzzles, paper, markers, etc. Contact me at above e-mail for more information. Theresa S.Greater Cleveland Asperger Support http://health. groups.. com/group/ gc-as A Good Credit Score is 700 or Above. See yours in just 2 easy steps!