ASA-ASO DIGEST: January 12, 2009

[Guest guest]

Dear Friend of ASA-ASO:

Best wishes for a safe and happy 2009 from ASA-ASO!

Visit ASA-ASO's website www.autismohio.org for an "easy to read" version if this does not come through clean on your listserv. Or sign up to receive your own copy by "registering" on the "login" section of ASA-ASO's homepage.

News From ASA-ASO:

- CMS Approves Additional Capacity for Level One Waiver

- Get information about ODMRDD Budget Forums online

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

- Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

- Federal Update/Alerts

Help Bring the Waiting List Crisis to the Attention of the Obama Administration President-elect Obama and his family moved from Chicago to Washington. Arne Duncan, the CEO of the Chicago Public School System, has been nominated to serve as

Secretary of Education.

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- ASA accepting nominations for Awards and Scholarships

- Autism Society of Greater Cleveland Upcoming Meeting

- Don't miss the next ASA-AMC Sensory Friendly Films, Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati

- Applied Behavior Analysis Informational Podcast

- New way to attend FREE Parent Trainings from OCECD

- Children's Harnesses by Elaine, Inc.

- A Free Special Needs Tax Workshop, Riverside

- CEC's teachers blog provides virtual mentoring for special educators

- Article: TODAY IS GOING TO BE DIFFERENT- Siblings of children with autism face unique challenges- Teacher Tube connects educators through video-sharing site- Article: Special-educators use many skills to reach children

- Solidarity ’09 Conference, Columbus

- Ohio Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities, Columbus

- Book: Helping Children with Complex Needs Bounce Back- Latest ODMRDD E-newsletter Pipeline

- Presentation: FUNDING SOURCES FOR AUTISM SERVICES, Independence

- MEANINGFUL PARENT ENGAGEMENT in Preschool from ODE and OCECD

- OCECD AUDIO CONFERENCE TRAINING SCHEDULE

- Temple Grandin Interviewed on NPR

- Advocating for the Special Need's Child in Today's School System, Cincinnati

- Book: Quick, Easy and Effective Behaviour Management Ideas for the Classroom.

- 2009 UPCOMING AREA SEMINARS / TRAININGS / EVENTS - NE Ohio

- Study: Skyrocketing Calif. autism rate not all due to better diagnoses

- Differentneedz.com Resale Website

- Article: Four Rules for Raising Children

- Rock The Puzzle returns to House of Blues Cleveland

- VanWert Support Group

- An Invitation to a Webinar on Special Needs Planning

- Summer Internships for Students with Disabilities

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

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

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

News From ASA-ASO:

CMS Approves Additional Capacity for Level One Waiver From ODMRDD Enewsletter Pipeline:

On Friday, January 2, 2009, ODMRDD received notification from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) that our Request for Amendment to increase capacity for the Level One waiver was approved. This gives ODMRDD the ability to allocate approximately 2,000 additional Level One waivers to County Boards of MRDD, which brings the total number of available capacity for the Level One waiver to 8500. ODMRDD will begin processing the requests for allocation of this additional capacity and will be sending allocation letters to the County Boards of MRDD as soon as possible. Stephan, Deputy Director, Medicaid Development and Administration, notes, “The increase in capacity of the Level One waiver allocation is encouraging for Ohio in these difficult economic times. We are pleased that CMS has approved our request.â€

Get information about ODMRDD Budget Forums online

ODMRDD Director , will host ‘budget conversations’ in five locations throughout the state, during the first two weeks in January 2009. Co-sponsors of the meetings include theOhio Association of County Boards of MRDD (OACBMRDD); the Ohio Association of Superintendents of County Boards of MRDD (OASCBMRDD), the Ohio Provider ResourceAssociation (OPRA); The Arc of Ohio, and The League (formerly OLMR). Plan to attend these meetings and have your voices heard: Schedule of Strategic Planning & Public Input Meetings- All Meetings will be from 7-9 p.m. –- January 7, 2009Guernsey County Board of MRDD60770 Southgate RoadByesville, Ohio 43723-9699(740) 439-4451 January 8, 2009The Findlay Inn & Conference Center200 E. Main Cross StreetFindlay, Ohio 45840(419) 422-5682 January 12, 2009 Arboretum & Gardens Metro Park6733 Springboro PikeDayton, Ohio 45449(937) 434-9005 January 13, 2009Holiday Inn Columbus/Worthington7007 N. High StreetWorthington, Ohio 43085(614) 436-0700 January 15, 2009Sheraton Suites Akron/Cuyahoga Falls1989 Front StreetCuyahoga Falls, Ohio 44221(330) 929-3000

For those individuals not able to attend one of the regional Budget Forums being held across the state by Director , ODMRDD has set up a “Virtual Budget Forum†that is easily accessible on the ODMRDD Website. Comments can be submitted via this method until January 16th.

The virtual budget forum is available on ODMRDD’s homepage, www.mrdd.ohio.gov. It is titled “Virtual Budget Forum†in the Learn More About section. The video does take about 10-20 seconds to load completely on a basic internet connection. Please take a few minutes to look through the page, and to submit any additional comments you may have.

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

As you are aware, Autism Insurance Parity, HB170 is currently under consideration by the Ohio House Insurance Committee. The fall elections are coming and immediately following the elections it will be time to address next biennial budget for Ohio. Additionally, issues regularly come before the state legislature that impact individuals with autism, their families and those who work them throughout Ohio. And because of this, the Autism Society of Ohio needs your help.

We are in the process of putting together an autism advocacy network that has constituents in each of the districts of the members of the Ohio General Assembly, both the House and Senate. We are looking for advocates all around the state to help us with this effort.

You can volunteer to participate in two ways:

· Team Leader: Each Ohio district will have an assigned team leader who is responsible for carrying the key ASA-ASO/autism messages when meeting with the legislator (Representatives and Senators), coordinating testimony or letter writing for hearings, and for organizing the team members of their district, etc.

· Team Member: Each Ohio district will have several team members that are available to share their own personal ASA-ASO/autism story, to write letters when needed, and to ask from help from their neighbors/families/friends. Team members may choose specialize on certain topics – ie. autism insurance parity topic, special education funding, etc.

ASA-ASO is also developing a Legislative Advocacy Manual and will provide local training to constituent volunteer advocates.

If you are interested in participating in this effort, please send your Name, address, city,zip+4, phone, email address, House District Number and Senate District number and whether you are interested in being a “Team Leader†or a “Team Member†to askASO@.... Please put AUTISM ADVOCACY NETWORK in the subject line. To find your district numbers, visit www.legislature.state.oh.us and follow the directions under "Locating Legislators".

For more information, visit our website at www.autismohio.org

Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

Because of privacy concerns, the Ohio BMV will no longer be releasing the names and addresses of those who purchase the Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate to the ASA-Autism Society of Ohio. $25 from the purchase of each plate benefits the ASA-ASO and we have been sending thank you notes to all those who have purchased a plate. However, we will no longer be able to do so. The BMV is currently looking into options to add customer consent to the special license plate process so hopefully we will be able to go back to thanking folks formally in the future. But whether we are able to send a formal "thank you" or not, please know that the purchase of an autism awareness license plate makes a big difference and helps us help individuals with autism, their families and those who work with them throughout Ohio.

Federal Update

Help Bring the Waiting List Crisis to the Attention of the Obama Administration

From the Disability Policy Collaboration

Second Round of Voting - January 15 deadline!

More Info

BackgroundIdeas for Change in America is a citizen-driven project that aims to identify and create momentum around the best ideas for how the Obama Administration and 111th Congress can turn the broad call for "change" across the country into specific policies.

The Arc is again using this great resource to bring attention to the waiting list crisis for Medicaid home and community based services. We ask that you vote for the "change" below: National Priority for the Economic Stimulus Package: Fully Fund Medicaid Waivers for Persons with Developmental Disabilities.Funding health care and services for individuals with developmental disabilities, disabilities and the elderly creates jobs, careers, business opportunities while filling a critical need. I propose that the federal government:1. Fully fund the Medicaid Waiver Program as part of the next Economic Stimulus Package. 2. Consider this as an increased federal match so that states are not put into an impossible situation.3. Create portability of services across states and counties as is allowed with Medicare and Social Security. More.... Status of this "change"December 20, 2008 - The first round of voting began.January 1, 2009 - The first round of voting closed. The Medicaid waiver issue made it to the top 3 ideas in Health care, which was needed in order to make it to the second round. January 5, 2009 - The second round of voting began.January 15, 2009 - The second (and final!) round of voting closes.January 16, 2009 - Change.org will co-host an event at the National Press Club in Washington, DC to announce the top 10 rated ideas and their plans for supporting the formation of a national advocacy campaign behind each idea in collaboration with their nonprofit partners. For more information see: http://www.change.org/ideas/faq January 20, 2009 - The top 10 rated ideas will be presented to the Obama Administration on Inauguration Day as the "Top 10 Ideas for America." A national campaign behind each idea will then be launched. Take Action1) Please vote on the waiting list crisis at: http://www.change.org/ideas/view/fully_fund_medicaid_waivers_for_the_developmentally_disabledClick on the "vote" button. You will then need to create an account (or sign in if you already have one) for your vote to be registered. * Important Note: Make certain your vote registers. You must click on the number to the left of the title that says "VOTE" under it in order to have your vote actually count. Once you have done that, it will say "VOTED". Registering on the site and entering a comment DOES NOT count as a vote! About 1/3 of our votes in the last round were lost this way!2) Feel free to post a comment on this change, noting what state you live in to show that this is a national crisis.3) Please ask your family and friends to do the same. Every vote matters!We will keep you updated on the results .....

President-elect Obama and his family moved from Chicago to Washington. They will be staying at the Hay- Hotel, just two blocks from the White House, for about two weeks. Both Obama daughters start their private schooling today. The Obama family will then move into Blair House, just across the street from the White House. They will live there for less than a week. They will then move into the White House on Inauguration Day.Arne Duncan, the CEO of the Chicago Public School System, has been nominated to serve as Secretary of Education. Reputed to be a reformer, Mr. Duncan's special education record has not kept pace with educational achievements for regular education students. It is anticipated that his record in special education will be highlighted during his Senate confirmation hearings.

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc.:

ASA accepting nominations for Awards and Scholarships

Each year, the Autism Society of America presents a number of awards andscholarships to individuals and organizations in recognition of theircommitment to the autism community. Awards and scholarship winners areannounced each year at ASA's National Conference and Exposition on AutismSpectrum Disorders.ASA Award and Scholarship Eligibility Guidelines1. Eligibility:* Only ASA members in good standing may submit nominations. It is alsorecommended that nominees be ASA members.* All nominations (except where noted) must pertain to accomplishmentsoccurring during calendar year 2008.* No current member of the ASA Board of Directors or the Panel ofProfessional Advisors, PSA (or program with which one of the ASA Board, PSAor PPA members is associated) is eligible.* Individuals, organizations or products that have won an ASA award are noteligible in the category in which they have previously won.* The ASA will only administer one award to an individual or group within agiven calendar year.* With the exception of the CVS/All Kids Can Scholars Program, you cannotnominate yourself for an ASA Award.* Voting members of the ASA Awards Committee are prohibited from making anomination.* Guidelines apply to all ASA Awards and the CVS/All Kids Can ScholarsProgram.2. Each nomination must include at least five copies (REQUIRED) of thefollowing materials. ALL ITEMS REQUESTED ARE REQUIRED:* A cover page with the name of the nominee, address, day phone number,e-mail address, and the award for which they are being nominated; and thename, address, day phone number, and e-mail address of the ASA member makingthe nomination.* An essay (500 words maximum) by the ASA member making the nomination,stating a) why the nominee deserves this award and the nominee'ssignificant contribution to autism.* Nominations in the Media Excellence, Outstanding Literary, and OutstandingMusical Contribution categories must include five copies of the work beingnominated (e.g., the book, poem, video, compact disk or DVD).* Any nomination, including those to the ASA National Awards and the CVS/AllKids Can Scholars Program, submitted with fewer than five complete copieswill be disqualified.* All award submissions, including all materials (books, videos, etc.), willnot be returned.3. Please clearly label on each item submitted the name of the person beingnominated and the award category.4. The ASA Awards Committee evaluates all nominations and selects winnersthat are appropriate for each category.A winner is not necessarily chosen from all categories. All winners will benotified no later than April 30, 2009, and will be recognized at the AutismSociety of America's 40th National Conference on Autism SpectrumDisorders at the Pheasant Run Resort and Spa in St. , Illinois onJuly 22nd thru the 25th. Winners of ASA Awards will receive a one-daycomplimentary registration for the day of the award presentation.Specify your award category and mail to:Autism Society of America7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 300, Bethesda, MD 20814Attention: 2009 ASA AwardsAll materials must be postmarked by March 31, 2009, and received no laterthan April 2, 2009. ASA will not be responsible for late, damaged,misdirected or misaddressed mail.2009 ASA Award Categories ASA Volunteer of the YearAn award presented to a chapter member whose work has positively influencedthe lives of individuals, parents, and professionals coping with autism inhis or her community.Media Excellence Award Video, Print or NewsAny item released, published, or copyrighted within the last five years(January 1, 2004 & later) that has made a significant contribution to theautism community is eligible.Outstanding Literary Work of the YearFamily/Social Division (book, poem, essay, etc.)Any item published or copyrighted within the last five years — January 1,2004 & later is eligible.Outstanding Literary Work of the YearEducational Division (book, poem, essay, etc.)Any item published or copyrighted within the last five years — January 1,2004 & later is eligible.Autism Professional of the YearProfessionals who have made a significant contribution in the autism field(educator, speech language therapist, social worker, occupational therapist,psychologist, psychiatrist medical doctor, or researcher). This list is notexhaustive; nominations for all types of professionals are welcome.Outstanding Individual With Autism of the YearAn individual with autism who has excelled in one or more areas of lifeexperiences or contributions. Demonstration of exceptional dedication,effort or achievement. Areas to be considered can include, but should notnecessarily be limited to: academics, the arts, athletics, communityservice, employment, extracurricular activities, transitions or independentliving skills.ASA Audrey I. Horne Memorial AwardGiven to an individual or organization that has made an enduringcontribution to improving adult services and the quality of life for thoseindividuals living on the autism spectrum.CVS/All Kids Can Scholars ProgramThe CVS/All Kids Can Scholars Program, administered by the Autism Society ofAmerica, provides a scholarship in the amount of $1,000 to a qualifiedindividual with autism to be applied toward the completion of an accredited,postsecondary educational or vocational program of study (e.g., college,trade school, etc.).Eligibility: The scholarship is available to an individual with autism whohas successfully met all the requirements for admission into an accreditedpost-secondary program of study.See ASA's Award and Scholarship Eligibility Guidelines for details onnominator and nominee eligibility and the awards selection process.Guidelines: Applicants must provide five copies of the following to beconsidered by the ASA Awards Committee:* A cover page with the name of the nominee, address, day phone number,e-mail address, and the award for which they are being nominated; and thename, address, day phone number, and e-mail address of the ASA member makingthe nomination.* Self-nominations are accepted for this award only.* Documentation of status as an individual with autism* Secondary school transcripts* Documentation of acceptance into an accredited, postsecondary educationalor vocational program of study* Two letters of recommendation* Personal statements of no more than 500 words, outlining the applicant'squalifications, social security number and proposed plan of study.These should be completed by both the nominee and the nominator. If theindividual is self-nominating, only one statement is required.Mail to: Attn:CVS /All Kids Can, Autism Society of America,7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 300, Bethesda, MD 20814

Autism Society of Greater Cleveland Upcoming Meeting

NEW MEETING LOCATION:Independence Civic CenterNEW DAY: 1st Monday of Each Month

Next ASGC Meeting:Monday, February 2, 2009 @ 6:30 PMGreetings to all of the membership and friends of the ASGC,It promises to be an exciting new year for the ASGC. The ASGC has experienced unprecedented growth. We are very proud of our growth and realize that it is all due to the generosity of our friends and members and outstanding efforts of our volunteer staff. We cannot thank you all enough.

It is with this in mind, that I am very pleased to announce the ASGC's new meeting location and meeting day. As of February 2, 2009, we will meet the first Monday of every month at The Independence Civic Center, 6363 Selig Drive, Independence, OH 44131. Selig Drive is located west off of Brecksville Road approximately 2 miles south of Rockside and Brecksville Roads.

The new meeting space allows us to accommodate a much larger crowd. We are excited to move to our new location. We would also like to thank our friends at The Cuyahoga Valley Career Center for their outstanding accommodations over the last few years.

We hope you will join us on February 2, 2009 at 6:30 PM. Free Child Care will be available. Please RSVP for childcare at least seven days prior to our meeting date. If you need directions or have any questions, please contact us at support@... or (216) 556-4937.

Eileen Hawkins The Autism Society of Greater Cleveland (ASGC)P.O. Box 41066Brecksville, OH 44141(216) 556-4937 Meetings - 1st Monday of every Month@ 6:30 PM - The Independence Civic Ctr.6363 Selig Drive, Independence, OH 44131

Don't miss the next Sensory Friendly Film! Hotel for DogsJanuary 31, 200910 a.m. local timeCleveland: AMC Ridge Park Square 8, 4788 Ridge Rd., Brooklyn, Ohio 44144Cincinnati: NEWPORT ON THE LEVEE 20, ONE LEVEE WAY STE 4100, NEWPORT, KY 41071Columbus: LENNOX 24, 777 KINNEAR RD, COLUMBUS, OH 43212 AMC Entertainment (AMC) and ASA have teamed up to bring families affected by autism and other disabilities a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis with the "Sensory Friendly Films" program. In order to provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for this unique audience, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down, families will be able to bring in their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks, and no previews or advertisements will be shown before the movie. Additionally, audience members are welcome to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing - in other words, AMC’s “Silence is Golden®†policy will not be enforced unless the safety of the audience is questioned. Tickets are $4-6 depending on location and can be purchased on the day of the event.

Contact the local ASA chapter (Cleveland - AS Greater Cleveland support@..., Cincinnati - AS Greater Cincinnati ASGC@..., Columbus - Central Ohio PatCloppert@...) for more information, or Carin Yavorcik at the ASA at cyavorcik@...

Applied Behavior Analysis Informational Podcast

This podcast is to be used for informational purposes only. The podcast was not create to be used as a training tool. The podcast serves as a prerequisite to the Milestones Family Workshop series (January 11th or January 25th).

http://www.milestones.org/aba_podcast.htm

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

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

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

To register call 216-371-4765 or email milestonesorg@...

Two dates and locations:

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

Date: Sunday, January 25, 2009

Location: MetroHealth Medical Center - Main Campus 2500 MetroHealth DriveCleveland, OH 44109Rammelkamp, Room 170 (near the main atrium)Time: 1:30 pm- 4:30 pmCost: FREE (sponsored by Metro Health Hospital)

New way to attend FREE Parent Trainings from OCECD

The Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities is currently implementing Audio Conference Training (ACT) . This is a new way to attend any of the following FREE Parent Trainings from the comfort of your home, office, etc. The following is a current schedule of the dates and topics that will be presented. If you are interested in being a part of any of these upcoming trainings, Please call the n office at 800-374-2806 and let them know you want to register for an Audio Conference Training. A packet of information will be sent to you along with the call in number. If you have any questions regarding ACT please call. Tuesday, January 13, 2009 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Topic: Visual Impaired Presenter: Pat Linkhorn Tuesday, March 17, 2009 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Topic: Transition Drives the IEP Presenter: Mandernach Thursday, April 23, 2009 1:00 – 3:00 PM Topic: Understanding ADHD Presenter: Sandy Brickner Tuesday May 12, 2009 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Topic: Behavior Focused IEP’s Presenter: Lyke Wednesday, June 17, 2009 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Topic: Is Your Child a Target of Presenter: Barbara Rutt Bullying? Thursday, July 30, 2008 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Topic: Understanding the Presenter: Robin Evaluation Process Tuesday, August 25, 2009 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Topic: Hearing Impaired Presenter: Kim Dennison Visit our Website: www.ocecd.org

Children's Harnesses by Elaine, Inc.

Good afternoon,I was wondering if I might ask you to circulate my website address *www.childharness.ca* <http://www.childharness.ca/> in your onlinenewsletter, or perhaps mention me at one of your upcoming meetings. I havebeen in business for a few years but I still hear from my customers that"they'd wished they'd found me sooner".My Child-to-Adult Autism/ADHD/Special Needs Safety Harness has becomeextremely popular and approximately 45% of my business now is makingharnesses for children/adults with special needs. Overall, I have customersin 7 Canadian provinces, 26 American states and 5 International countries.Seven community organizations and 3 schools have purchased my harnesses forchildren under their care.You can read an independent review of my Child-to-Adult Safety Harness at *www.lucasworks.org* <http://www.lucasworks.org/>.Thank you for your time and thank you for circulating my address, if youfeel it's appropriate.Sincerely,Elaine*your source for custom-made harnesses*www.childharness.ca

A Free Special Needs Tax Workshoppresented by Nidich, Special Needs Attorney and Tax Prepareris being held Thursday, January 15 at 6:30 PM at the Miami Valley RegionalCenter, 4801 Springfield Street, Riverside, OH 45431.Bring your tax concerns and questions!This workshop is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.Sorry, we cannot accomodate children.Please RSVP to: bernofamgmailBrought to you by the Autism Society of America-Dayton Chapter

CEC's teachers blog provides virtual mentoring for special educators Be sure to check out Reality 101 for New Teachers, designed for teachers new to the classroom. This month's blogger is Deborah Metcalf, CEC's 2004 Teacher of the Year and a K–5 response-to-instruction interventionist. http://cecblog.typepad.com/

Article: TODAY IS GOING TO BE DIFFERENT

By Dan Coulter

Matt’s eyes dart around the classroom. smiles shyly at him as their eyes meet. His pulse is racing. Everyone is getting seated and class is about to start.

Today is going to be different.

Yesterday, his class learned about Asperger Syndrome. The school counselor came and told everyone what it was and how it affected Matt. The counselor had talked with Matt and his parents beforehand, and they had agreed about what he’d say. He didn’t make it sound like a disease or a big problem. Instead, the counselor explained that Matt’s brain processed information differently in some ways, and that made some things harder for Matt. But he also described how it helped make Matt an expert at other things.

Matt looks up at the teacher and she smiles at him, too. The knot in Matt’s stomach starts to undo itself. School had only begun a week ago, and it had started out to be as bad as last year.

Last year, Matt’s teacher had never really understood what was going on in Matt’s head. She’d gotten impatient when he continually forgot to raise his hand and called out answers in class. One terrible day, she’d accused him of not trying hard enough to control himself and asked him angrily if he knew what manners were. Overwhelmed by fear and confusion, he’d had a meltdown and started to cry. Then he’d had to walk, in shame, to the principal’s office, where he’d gotten a lecture about acting his age. For the remainder of the year, some classmates had teased him and the rest had ignored him.

But now, his new teacher and the students around him knew there was a reason for the ways he acted and reacted.

Yesterday, the counselor had observed that everyone in the class was a bit different. He’d talked about looking past different behaviors to find the person underneath, pointing out that people like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sir Isaac Newton and Jefferson all had habits that made them look odd. This didn’t mean that they had Asperger Syndrome or that anyone who acted different was a genius, but it did show what the world would have missed if people hadn’t looked past their odd behaviors.

Then Matt had walked to the front of the room and talked about Asperger Syndrome and answered questions about it. Some of his classmates looked amazed when he described his love of sports statistics and easily answered their questions about their favorite teams and players. Matt felt like they were seeing him for the first time.

This morning, in the hall on his way to class, several kids had come up to Matt and apologized for the way they’d treated him. had actually told two jerks from another class to lay off when they’d called Matt a retard.

Matt’s mind comes back to the present as the teacher starts class. He knows he’s still going to be seen as different. But now, maybe most of his classmates will be more patient and explain the social things he doesn’t understand. He doesn’t want to change everything about himself. He just wants to fit in. For the first time, that seems possible.

So this is what hope feels like.

# # #

(Matt’s story is not about one child. It’s a compilation with input from many stories I’ve heard from parents, teachers, and children. The last line is a quote from my son.)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -- Dan Coulter is the producer of the Intricate Minds series of DVDs, which help students understand classmates who have Asperger Syndrome and similar conditions. You can find more articles on his website: www.coultervideo.com.

Copyright 2009 Dan Coulter . Used by Permission.

Siblings of children with autism face unique challengesThe siblings of children with autism-spectrum disorders, such as Marissa Skillings, 15, may be profoundly affected by the disorder. "I'd kill for him. But I could kill him, too," said Marissa, whose younger brother , 11, has Asperger's syndrome. "Because socially he needs help, so I have to protect him and be there for him more than a normal big sister would." National Public Radio (text and audio) http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=98012194

Presentation; FUNDING SOURCES FOR AUTISM SERVICES, IndependenceThe presentation will detail major funding sources for service for children with autism, incl. MR/DD program, medicaid, waivers, EPSDT, special education laws, Social Security/SSI, eligibility and benefit overview, accessing services and appeals. Attoneys lin J. Hickman and B. McKee from Hickman & Lowder CO., LPA will be presenting on the topics listed above. When?January 22, 2008 at 6:30 pmWhere?Independence Public Library6361 Selig DriveIndependence, Ohio 44131-4926Off Brecksville Road in Civic Center complexLibrary Phone: 216-447-0160RSVPPlease RSVP to Pattison via email at apattison@... or by calling 216.544.1231 by January 20. Space is limited! We hope to see you there!Sincerely, Pattison National Autism Association - Northeast Ohio (NAA-NEO) Helping Hand Program Manager P. O. Box 221195 Beachwood, OH 44122 E-mail: apattison@... Phone (216)544-1231 Web: www.autismnortheastohio.org

Teacher Tube connects educators through video-sharing siteThousands of teachers are sharing lessons through Teacher Tube -- a Web site similar to YouTube that launched in 2007 and now has about 54,000 videos and averages 800,000 users each month. "It is allowing teachers from all over the world to share with each other and learn from one another," said , the co-creator of Teacher Tube and superintendent of a Texas school district. "We want to create a grassroots movement in transforming how teachers teach and students learn." The Dallas Morning News http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/education/stories/010509dnmetteachertube.3899c4e.html

Article: Special-educators use many skills to reach childrenThose who teach children with special needs must be challenged, not stymied, by problems, writes Ellenmorris Tiegerman, who founded a New York school for children with language disorders. Special-education teachers must consider the world from their students' point of view and figure out how to help lessons make sense to them. http://www.longislandpress.com/articles/developmentallyspeaking/701/

Solidarity ’09 Conference

Solidarity ’09 celebrates 10th anniversary with workshops, legislative training, Ohio governor and TV/radio celebritiesSolidarity ’09, Ohio’s leading conference by and for people with disabilities returns Tuesday, April 14 to Thursday, April 16, 2009 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Columbus. Plan now to attend and see: • Joyce Bender, host of “Disability Matters,†the internationally-acclaimed radio program about employing and empowering people with disabilities. • Matt Roloff, star of The Learning Channel’s “Little People, Big World .†• Actor Burke and The Burke Band. • Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, scheduled to address the Solidarity audience. Solidarity conferences bring vital information, advocacy techniques and motivation to people with disabilities so they, their friends, families and coworkers can be more aware of and better advocate for the issues important to the disability community. “I contribute a lot of my success and leadership skills to the empowering and informative workshops and speakers presented at Solidarity conferences. Solidarity is a very well organized and will remain one of the best tools for people with cross-disabilities to do networking, and become employed, tax-paying citizens and leaders of the communities they live in,†said Dayton resident Shari , Ms. Wheelchair Ohio 2008. Solidarity ’09 features more than 30 workshops on a wide variety of topics including employment, the Americans with Disabilities Act, service animals and the law, Medicaid Buy-In, getting out the vote, job skills assessments, obtaining assistive technology, dealing with depression and more. Vendor Displays and a Health and Wellness Fair will give participants an opportunity to try out the newest technology and get health screenings.The Hyatt Regency—home to Solidarity since it started in 1991– offers a welcoming, accessible facility for all conference activities. The hundreds of conference participants who have stayed at the hotel remark that they feel a “real part of the event†and make many friends. Reserve rooms early. The conference fee of $175 includes three days of workshops and activities, a meal each day, snacks and entertainment. Scholarships covering the conference fee are available to eligible people with disabilities on a first-request basis. Registration materials are available at www.dnos.org. For more information, or for registration materials, contact AXIS at (614) 488-2028, or axiscenter@....

Solidarity ’09 sponsors include the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission, Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council, Ohio Department of MRDD, Buckeye Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America, Invacare, Ohio Legal Rights Service, and many others. Sponsorships and display spaces are still available; contact AXIS for more information.Solidarity is a project of the Disability Network of Ohio—Solidarity, Inc.

Ohio Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities

The eleventh Ohio Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) will be July 20th until July 23rd (2009) at the Embassy Suites, in Dublin, Ohio. The forum is designed to teach leadership and advocacy skills to students with disabilities. Delegates, whom are the students chosen to participate, have the opportunity to learn from and interact with legislators, successful adults with disabilities, and experienced advocates. They also have a unique opportunity to interact with peers who have a range of disabilities (both physically and mentally). This is an excellent opportunity for delegates to learn ways in which the needs of people, with a variety of disabilities, are similar and different. For more information, visit http://www.gcpd.ohio.gov/YLF/index.asp

Book: Helping Children with Complex Needs Bounce BackResilient TherapyTM for Parents and ProfessionalsBy Kim Aumann and Angie HartIllustrated by Chloe Gerhardt[January 2009, Kingsley Publishers, 224 pages, paperback, 978-1-84310-948-8, $19.95]Bringing up a special child can leave parents feeling deskilled, disarmed and worn down. A resilient child has the ability to cope with challenging situations, and the capacity to bounce back from trauma and gain long-term strength from these life experiences. Resilient Therapy ™ is an innovative way of strengthening children with complex needs. This is a tried-and-tested handbook for parents to read from cover to cover, or dip in and out of as needed. Accessible and fun, Helping Children with Complex Needs Bounce Back includes exercises and worksheets, as well as breaking down the principles of the latest research, making them easy to apply to everyday situations.This ‘magic box’ of ideas and remedies is perfect for parents and caregivers, friends and families of children with disabilities, special educational needs and mental or physical health needs, as well as professionals working with these children. Kim Aumann is Director of ART (Amaze Research and Training). Amaze is a parent-led voluntary organization offering support and advice to parents of children with special needs and disabilities. She has been a practitioner in this area for 15 years. Angie Hart is Professor of Child, Family and Community Health at the University of Brighton. She is also the mother of three adopted children, all with special needs, and is a child and family therapist.Contents: Introduction. Chapter One: Basics. Chapter Two: Belonging. Chapter Three: Learning. Chapter Four: Coping. Chapter Five: Core Self. Chapter Six: To conclude: Let’s get real. It’s tough, but so are you. Appendices: Feedback. References. Index.###For further information or for a review copy, please contact: Finnegan, Kingsley Publishers, 400 Market Street, Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA. Tel: (215) 922-1161; Fax: (215) 922-1474; email: teresa.finnegan@...For more information, or to purchase this book, please visit: http://www.jkp.com/catalogue/book.php/isbn/9781843109488

Latest ODMRDD E-newsletter Pipeline

To see the complete newsletter or subscribe, visit: http://mrdd.ohio.gov/pipeline/odmrdd.htm

Presentation: FUNDING SOURCES FOR AUTISM SERVICESThe presentation will detail major funding sources for service for children with autism, incl. MR/DD program, medicaid, waivers, EPSDT, special education laws, Social Security/SSI, eligibility and benefit overview, accessing services and appeals. Attoneys lin J. Hickman and B. McKee from Hickman & Lowder CO., LPA will be presenting on the topics listed above. When?January 22, 2008 at 6:30 pmWhere?Independence Public Library6361 Selig DriveIndependence, Ohio 44131-4926Off Brecksville Road in Civic Center complexLibrary Phone: 216-447-0160RSVPPlease RSVP to Pattison via email at apattison@... or by calling 216.544.1231 by January 20. Space is limited! We hope to see you there!Sincerely, Pattison National Autism Association - Northeast Ohio (NAA-NEO) Helping Hand Program Manager P. O. Box 221195 Beachwood, OH 44122 E-mail: apattison@... Phone (216)544-1231 Web: www.autismnortheastohio.org

MEANINGFUL PARENT ENGAGEMENT in Preschool from ODE and OCECDFOCUS GROUP MEETINGS AND AUDIO CONFERENCE CALLS The Office of Early Learning and School Readiness and Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities are working in collaboration to address the needs of preschool children with disabilities throughout the state of Ohio. This survey was developed in partnership with these two agencies to identify and improve services for preschool children. Parents/Guardians of a child/children with a disability between the ages of 3 - 5 years and who are receiving special education services in a preschool program, are invited to participate in a focus group or an audio conference call(s). These group discussions will focus on gathering information that pertains to parental understanding of the topic of Meaningful Parent Involvement in the preschool setting. Topics of discussion will center around parent involvement in the special education process, preschool curriculum, evaluation, eligibility to receive services under IDEIA, and appropriate goals and services on an IEP. The information collected from these focus group meetings, audio conference calls, and this survey will be collected, tallied and sent with recommendations to the Office of Early Learning and School Readiness (OEL & SR) to enhance and improve services for preschool children with disabilities. 1/22/09 OCECD Executive Office Session 1 9:00 –11:00 a.m. 165 West Center Street Session 2 12:30–2:30 p.m. n, Ohio 43302 Session 3 6:00–8:00 p.m. 800-374-2806 1/23/09 Audio Conference Focus Group 9:30–11:00 a.m. 1/28/09 Audio Conference Focus Group 2:00–3:30 p.m. 2/5/09 Audio Conference Focus Group 2:00–3:30 p.m 2/12/09 Audio Conference Focus Group 2:00–3:30 p.m. Call 800-374-2806 and ask for Jane to register.Conference call in numbers and materials will be given when you register.

To receive a copy of the survey via email, send a request to Martha at ocecd@...

OCECD AUDIO CONFERENCE TRAINING SCHEDULEJANUARY 13, 2009 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MAY 12, 2009 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMTopic: Visually Impaired Topic: Behavior Focused IEP’s Presenter: Pat Linkhorn Presenter: Lyke FEBRUARY 24, 2009 7:00 PM JUNE 17, 2009 11:00 AM – 1:00 PMTopic: Parent/Professional Communication Topic: Is Your Child a Target of Bullying?Presenter: Pam Cotrell Presenter: Barb Rutt MARCH 17, 2009 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM JULY 30, 2009 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMTopic: Transition Drives the IEP Topic: Understanding the EvaluationPresenter: Mandernach Process Under IDEA 2004 Presenter: Robin APRIL 3, 2009 11:00 – 1:00 PMTopic: Understanding ADHD AUGUST 25, 2009 10:00 AM – 12:00 PMPresenter: Sandy Brickner Topic: Deafness/Hearing Impairment Presenter: Kim Dennison

TO REGISTER FOR ANY OF THE AUDIO CONFERENCES, PLEASE CALL JANE SEATON AT1-800-374-2806 EXT. 13 ***Materials for these audio conferences will either be e-mailed or mailed to you prior to the training. You will also receive instructions for calling in and accessing the audio conference training. You will be able to hear the trainer through your phone while viewing the training materials either on your computer or in hard copy. You will need “Microsoft Office PowerPoint 2003†(or newer) software in order to see the slides on your computer.

Temple Grandin Interviewed on NPR

To hear the story on National Public Radio and for more information, visit: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=99009110

Advocating for the Special Need's Child in Today's School SystemFriday, January 23, 200910:00 AM – 3:00PMLunch 12:05-12:55D2.23 - D2.26, Sabin BuildingPresented by Dena Hook, Director of Advocacy and Education for the National Tuberous Sclerosis AllianceThis workshop is designed for parents and professionals who advocate for educational services for children with special needs. 1:1 consultation with the presenter will be available at the end of the workshop. The following information will be presented:v Explore the Education Law known as IDEAv Identify key components of the IEP and the 504 Planv Identify the differences between the IEP and the 504 planv Discuss how to effectively advocate for services and resources in the school systemWhere: Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical CenterSabin Building, Room D2.23-D2.263333 Burnet AvenueCincinnati, OH 45229(Limited seating available) Cost: Free!To register, contact: Jeannie Fiser, LISW-SCheryl.fiser@... or (513) 636-0071Please register by Friday, January 16, 2009Lunch is provided or can be purchased in the Medical Center Cafeteria, located on D1Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Social Service is an approved provider of social work continuing education by the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board (RSX069302). This workshop is approved for 4 (four) social work continuing education clock hours.

Book: Quick, Easy and Effective Behaviour Management Ideas for the Classroom.Nicola S. .2008, 128 pages, paperback.ISBN: 9781843109518.£16.99/US$29.95.

Every teacher knows that the foundation of a good learning environment is effective behaviour management. Without the right attitude, resources and techniques, behaviour problems can disrupt classes, consume the teacher's time and subsequently affect the education and well-being of all the children. This book is brimming with quick, easy and effective techniques to help keep children focused on their work and engaged in appropriate behaviour within the classroom. Based on Nicola S.'s years of experience teaching and managing a range of challenging behaviours in the classroom, the book provides practical and do-able strategies that work and includes worksheets, rewards and other fully photocopiable resources. The ideas are all based around an original framework developed by the author called The 10 Rs for Behaviour Management. T he 10 Rs is a term for a group of strategies that are efficient 'tried and tested' techniques for managing children in the classroom, no matter what the behavioural difficulties are. They aim to prevent the occurrence of behaviour difficulties, or if problems do occur, they show how to quickly re-establish appropriate behaviour. The behavior management ideas and resources in this book will provide invaluable practical support for teachers, learning support assistants, teaching assistants and trainee teachersFind out more and buy this book:http://www.jkp.com/new/9781843109518

2009 UPCOMING AREA SEMINARS / TRAININGS / EVENTS - NE Ohio JANUARY Sun., 01-11 Basic ABA and Being Proactive with Behaviors (Boardman) Mon., 01-12 Basic ABA - Milestones (Streetsboro) Sun., 01-18 Schedules for Leisure Skills and Self Help Skills (Strongsville) Tues., 01-20 Open Forum - ASPIES Greater Akron Parent Support GroupParent discussion - Parent chosen topics/questions - Short video may be offered to get ideas flowing.) Thurs., 01-22 Funding Sources for Autism (Independence) Sun., 01-25 Basic ABA and Being Proactive with Behaviors (Cleveland) Wed., 01-28 Spotlight on the Family (Aurora)

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

Study: Skyrocketing Calif. autism rate not all due to better diagnosesThe seven- to eight-fold increase in California's autism rate cannot be blamed on better diagnoses, according to a new study from University of California, , researchers. "It's time to start looking for the environmental culprits responsible for the remarkable increase in the rate of autism in California," said professor Irva Hertz-Picciotto, an internationally respected autism researcher. Complete Story: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/01/090108095429.htm

Article: Saliva Test for Autism in the WorksCertain Saliva Compounds Are Different in Some Autistic Children, Italian Scientists Report

http://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/news/20090108/saliva-test-for-autism-in-the-works

By Miranda HittiWebMD Health NewsReviewed by Louise Chang, MDJan. 8, 2009 -- Certain compounds in saliva are different in some children with autism spectrum disorders, a new study shows.Italian researchers analyzed saliva samples from 27 children with autism spectrum disorders and 23 healthy children of the same age.The scientists, who included Professor Massimo Castagnola of Rome's Universita Cattolica, focused on small proteins and peptides, which are building blocks of protein, in the saliva samples.Two-thirds of the children in the autism spectrum disorders group had at least one salivary peptide that differed from children without autism.It's not clear if autism was the reason for those differences or why those differences weren't seen in all of the autistic children.Still, analyzing those peptides might help to identify "a considerable subgroup" of people with autism spectrum disorders, and the peptide differences might trace back to the central nervous system, write Castagnola and colleagues.The researchers note that their saliva test isn't ready for widespread use. First, it needs to be tested in larger groups of people and more needs to be learned about the connection between the peptides and autism.The study appears in the Journal of Proteome Research.

http://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/news/20090108/saliva-test-for-autism-in-the-works

View Article Sources

SOURCES:

Castagnola, M. Journal of Proteome Research, December 2008; vol 7: pp 5327-5332.

News release, American Chemical Society.

© 2009 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

Differentneedz.com Resale Website

Online Re-Sale Shop to Buy & Sell Gently Used Special Needs Medical Equipment, Therapy Devices, Adaptive Toys & More.DifferentNeedz.com was created to offer a re-sale website for buying and selling used special needs equipment - toys, medical and therapy devices, and all things helpful to the special needs community.

We ask all families and organizations to sell their gently used items for at least 50% OFF the original value of the item.

www.differentneedz.com

Article: Four Rules for Raising Children

From the 's Law E-Newsletter:

We often allow children with a neurobehavioral disability like ADHD or specific learning disabilities to misbehave and get away with bad behavior because we believe they cannot control their behavior. This is not true!

Because a child has disabilities, we often lower our expectations. If we do not expect them to control their behavior and their impulses, they won't.

Pete said "When I was raising my children, many people said I was too hard on them."

What do you think? Was he? How did they turn out?

At the end of this article, you'll find a progress report on how his boys are doing today. But first, read Pete's Four Rules.

#1. The child had to work

Children need to learn that their work contributes to the welfare of the family. When a child was young and we went to the store, the child had to carry a bag or two into the house. When they were a little older, they didn't ask - they just picked up bags and helped. When they grew tall enough to reach the sink, they had to help wash the dishes. When they were teenagers, they had to earn their spending money. They cut grass, did odd jobs in the neighborhood, delivered pizza, you name it.

#2. No Telephone or Television in the Child's Room, Ever!

In addition to a bed, each child's room had a desk, bookcases, and lots of books.

#3. The Child Had to Learn to Touch-Type at Home

Each child learned to touch-type at home. We used a typing software program like Mavis Beacon for 15-30 minutes a day. It took about three months for the child to learn to type 30 words per minute. This is an excellent activity for the summer.Use a chart to graph the child's progress in typing. Charts make progress real. When the child reached intermediate goals, they received small rewards. After they could type 30 wpm consistently, typing lessons ended. Eight years of age is not too young to start. Do not expect that the child will learn to touch type at school. Schools are not consistent. Teach this skill at home.

#4. Never ask"WHY?"

When my children misbehaved or messed up, I never asked them "WHY did you . . . ?" Why did you come home an hour late? Why did you come home with alcohol on your breath? Why didn't you clean up your room? Why did you leave a mess in the kitchen? Why didn't you finish your homework? Why did you finger-paint on the walls?

When the parent asks a child WHY?, the child learns to create good excuses, shifts blame onto others, views himself or herself as a "victim of circumstances" -- and not does not learn to take responsibility for his or her behavior. Talking about WHY the child misbehaved will not teach the child that he has control over himself, his environment and his future. This will not teach him to take responsibility for his actions. When you ask "Why," it's easy to slip in some guilt - "Why did you do this? You upset me so much. You made me feel terrible."Stay away from guilt.

Before my first child was born, I worked in juvenile training schools. I read a book called Reality Therapy by psychologist Glasser.

Dr. Glasser wrote:

"Eliminate the word 'why' from your vocabulary in dealing with child behavior. So often, children don't know 'why.' They acted because 'I felt like doing it' and they don't really know why. You should never ask 'Why?'

Ask these four questions instead:

What did you do?

What are you going to do about it?

To ensure that this does not happen again, what should we do to you now?

If this does happen again, despite your good intentions now, how much more severe shall the punishment be next time?

Read more about Dr. Glasser and how this book changed the way Pete dealt with the kids he worked with.

You'll also find out how it changed the way Pete viewed his job as a parent and the influence it had on his children.

Read the article Training Lions and Tigers: Discipline and Children with Disabilities. Don't miss the update on Pete's two boys.

Rock The Puzzle returns to House of Blues Cleveland

Save the Date!Friday, April 3, 2009Northeast Ohio Autism Group (NEOAG) has partnered withRainbow Babies & Children's Hospital in creating a newAutism Initiative in Cleveland.In order to address the needs and challenges of children, adults and families affected by autism in Northeast Ohio, this unprecedented Initiative will combine research and clinical services, as well as community outreach and training to help improve the lives of these individuals.Rainbow will be partnering with other local autism groupsto provide a complete list of services for the child and their families across the lifespan. 100% of the proceeds from ticket sales to Rock The Puzzlewill directly support this new Initiative. For sponsorshipopportunites, tickets and information, please visithttp://www.rockthepuzzle.com/ or call 440.488.3473.

VanWert Support Group

Fri 1/23 at the Van Wert County Hospital, 1250 S. Washington St. Van Wert 7pm conference room A

call to reserve seats: Toni and Max at 968-3092 or203-6369

An Invitation to a Webinar on Special Needs Planning

Presented by EPLiveOnline and Merrill Lynch

February 25, 2009

7:00 – 9:30 PM EST Join a Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor, a third-party special needs trust attorney, and a representative from a third-party disability organization as they discuss the financial, legal and social challenges faced by families like yours. (Please note that neither Merrill Lynch nor its personnel provide tax, accounting, or legal advice). Location: www.epliveonline.com in 2 convenient formatsLive, one-way audio/video streamed with e-mail chatArchived (viewed online after the event) Our panel of experts will: - Explore the team approach to special needs planning - Discuss the financial challenges facing families of children with disabilities and review the key elements of an effective financial strategy - Examine how a Special Needs Trust can be used to supplement income and protect quality of life for your child with special needs - Explain how third-party disability organizations can play a role in the special needs planning process

Registration: ( click here to register ) There is no registration fee to participate in this program.

Who Should Attend: Nurses - Educators and School Administrators - Physicians - Allied Health Care Professionals - Families and Caregivers Others Who Would Benefit: Institutions Serving the MR/DD Population - State and Private Facilities - Military Healthcare Personnel

Summer Internships for Students with DisabilitiesThe American Association of People with Disabilities is looking for college students with disabilities to apply for:The 2009 Summer Internships for Students with Disabilities in Washington, D.C. Accepted candidates will spend the summer in Washington, DC, working either in Congressional offices or the IT Divisions of Federal Government Agencies. Roundtrip airfare, accessible housing, and a living stipend will be provided to each intern. To apply or for more information, visit http://www.aapd.com/internships.html.

For more information about these internships, please contact:

AAPD 1629 K Street NW, Suite 503 Washington, DC 20006202-457-0046 (V/TTY)800-840-8844 (Toll Free V/TTY)202-457-0473 (Fax)

New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines.