ASA-ASO DIGEST: April 13, 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!

- AMC Entertainment® and the Autism Society of America Announce Partnership

- ASA Calls for Global Recognition of Human Rights for Individuals with ASD

- ASA Members-Only Savings on MedicAlert® 24-hour Response Service

- Senate Bill 79 moves through testimony March 31, 2009

- Latest issue of ASA Advocate Magazine features article by former ASA-ASO board member Sondra

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

- From ODE-OEC: Training on New IEP and ETR Forms for 2009-2010 School-year

- New PECS online module available from OCALI

- ODMRDD Community Services 2008 Annual Report now available!

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

- Governor's Office offering American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Information Sessions

- Federal Update/Alerts

Comprehensive Autism Legislation Introduced in U.S. Congress

ASA applauds the recent introduction of two bills to mark World Autism Awareness Day by U.S.

Representatives Mike Doyle (D-PA) and (R-NJ).

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- NEWS from the ASA:

ASA Teams Up with Little, Brown Company to Promote Awareness through "The Horse Boy" Autism Awareness Jigsaw Puzzles Don't Miss the Next Sensory Friendly Film! Hyperbaric Treatment for Autism Study Published Survey Explores Medical Care for Children with Autism Using Complementary Alternative

Medicine NIH Presents Summer Opportunities for Students and Teachers SpeechPathology.com Presents New Online Courses on Autism Dr. Holmes to Speak on Adults with Autism - IN TOLEDO! TheGlutenSolution.com Offers Resources for Gluten-Free Dieters New Documentary Looks at "Autistic-Like" Symptoms New Children's Book Teaches "Typical Kids" How to Befriend Children with Autism Parents Tell Story of Triplets with Autism- ASA-SE Ohio Chapter presents Athens Rocks for Autism 2

- ASA-Dayton Chapter activities Highlighted in Exceptional Parent Magagzine

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

- ASA-Tri-County Meeting (Youngstown) - April 15th

- ASA-Dayton presents: Ann Anzalone Workshops Parenting for Positive Potential

- Article: How 1 Autistic Young Man Runs a Business

- Webinar: Developing a Seizure Emergency Treatment Plan for the Patient with Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Intellectual Disabilities

- Article: The Other Side Of Autism

- Article: Scientists Find 'Baffling' Link between Autism and Vinyl Flooring

- Article: New Theory Of Autism Suggests Symptoms Or Disorder May Be Reversible

- Looking for Drawings by Artists with Autism

- Book: Life with a Partner or Spouse with Asperger Syndrome: Going Over the Edge? Practical Steps to Saving You and Your Relationship

- INFOhio offers LearningExpress Library

- Seminar: Inclusive Play Symposium 2009 - Play Across The Lifespan

- Bittersweet Farms workshop - Adults with Autism Advancing Awareness, Toledo

- BGSU 8th Annual Autism Summit “What’s Happening with Autism†The Neurology of Autism with Keynote, Bowling Green

- Public Transportation Travel Trainers Group Publishes New E-Newsletter

- Autism Biomedical DVD Set - All New

- ARC of Ohio Day at Cedar Point

- Milestones April Newsletter

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:

Article on Rally in the Columbus Dispatch

Read about the Developmental Disability/Autism Rally in the Columbus Dispatch:

http://www.dispatchpolitics.com/live/content/local_news/stories/2009/04/02/copy/autismcoverage.ART_ART_04-02-09_B5_IPDEEF3.html?adsec=politics & sid=101

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, service 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

AMC Entertainment® and the Autism Society of America Announce Partnership

Organizations Team Up to Promote Social Inclusion for Individuals with Autism in their Communities

Las Vegas, NV- AMC Entertainment (AMC) and the Autism Society of America (ASA) announced, on World Autism Awareness Day, a formal commitment to their current partnership that aims to include people with autism in their community through work and play. The AMC Sensory Friendly Films announcement occurred at ShoWest, the movie industry’s largest convention, in Las Vegas at Paris. For nearly a year, the two organizations have brought a pilot program to communities across the United States, giving families affected by autism a chance to go to the movies together – most for the first time. Now, with the formalization of their partnership, the two organizations will continue to bring the popular AMC Sensory Friendly FilmsTM program to families while planning for a workforce program to address the needs of those children as they grow up. With support from ASA, AMC will begin an employment program that will help individuals on the autism spectrum participate as visible, valued members of the workforce. “We are proud to expand this partnership into a program featuring multiple ways for our organization to make a difference in the lives of the estimated 1.5 million people in the U.S. living with autism spectrum disorder,†said Gerry , chief executive officer and president, AMC. “Not only will we continue to offer families affected by autism the chance to enjoy a special movie experience in a safe and accepting environment, but we look forward to launching our employment program, which will offer those affected by autism the opportunity to contribute to the AMC workforce in a meaningful manner.†Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disability that typically appears during the first two years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. It often comes with sensory sensitivities, which is why for the Sensory Friendly Films program, the lights are slightly turned up and the sound slightly turned down. But perhaps the most significant accommodation for families affected by autism is the suspension of AMC’s “Silence is Golden†policy – guests are allowed to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing, creating a safe and accepting environment for families that might otherwise never be able to attend a movie due to the challenges of autism. With two shows this April, National Autism Awareness Month – Monsters v. Aliens on April 4 and Hannah Montana: The Movie on April 18 – the program will continue to bring joy to families across the country.In addition to the recreational opportunity of AMC Sensory Friendly Films, the partnership will create a new employment opportunity for people on the spectrum. According to a 2008 Easter Seals/Mass Mutual study, 76 percent of teenagers with autism over the age of 16 have never looked for a job, and 76 percent of parents of children with autism are concerned about their child’s future employment. With help from top experts in the field, ASA will support AMC in developing a workforce program in their theatres that aims to change that landscape for families today.“ASA is thrilled to have AMC as a partner in our efforts to improve the lives of all affected by autism,†said ASA Board Chair Dr. Pratt. “The new workforce initiative is especially exciting because not only does it offer people with autism a much-needed opportunity for employment, but communities will be able to see that those on the spectrum can take steps toward independence by becoming valued members of the workforce.â€About AMC Entertainment Inc.Headquartered in Kansas City, Mo., AMC Entertainment Inc. is a leading theatrical exhibition and entertainment company. With a history of industry leadership and innovation dating back to 1920, the company today serves more than 235 million guests annually through interests in 309 theatres with 4,628 screens in five countries. www.amctheatres.comAbout Autism Society of AmericaASA, the nation’s leading grassroots autism organization, exists to improve the lives of all affected by autism. We do this by increasing public awareness about the day-to-day issues faced by people on the spectrum, advocating for appropriate services for individuals across the lifespan, and providing the latest information regarding treatment, education, research and advocacy. For more information, visit www.autism-society.org.

ASA Calls for Global Recognition of Human Rights for Individuals with ASD

ASA President to Speak at U.N. for World Autism Awareness DayBethesda, MD, April 2, 2009 - Today marks the second World Autism Awareness Day, asrecognized by the United Nations, and on this occasion the AutismSociety of America is calling on the nations of the world to support itsDeclaration of the Human Rights of Persons with Autism SpectrumDisorders.In honor of World Autism Awareness Day, the U.N. is presenting a paneldiscussion on "Autism and Human Rights: Understanding and Safeguardingthe Rights of People with Autism" at its headquarters in New York. LeeGrossman, ASA President and CEO, will be one of the distinguished panelspeakers from across the globe, along with Dr. Shore, an ASABoard of Directors member and individual with autism. Other speakersinclude Dr. Hatem El-Shanti, director of the Genetic Medical Centre atthe Shafallah Centre, Qatar; o Barrozo, professor of law at HarvardUniversity; e Friedel, president of Autism Europe; and Pats, executive director of the Irish Society of Autism. Mr.s is also a past president of the World Autism Organization. Awebcast of the briefing will be available athttp://www.un.org/dpi/ngosection/index.asp."We will know we have succeeded when people on the autism spectrumbecome an accepted part of the human condition," Grossman says. "Whilethis goal may take a generation to achieve, the global community shouldaim for nothing less, and it is imperative that we begin to work towardthat goal today."An estimated 30 million people in the world have an autism spectrumdisorder, 1.5 million in America alone. To date, there is no globalsurvey or study on prevalence. Individuals on the autism spectrum andtheir families struggle daily to advocate for basic health care,education and community acceptance that should be their natural rightsas humans, yet they are systematically discriminated against andsubjected to global abuses.ASA's declaration states that people with autism have the fundamentalhuman right to live an autonomous, independent and meaningful life;self-determination and direct involvement in decisions in decisionsaffecting their lives; accessible and appropriate education, housing,assistance, care and support services as well as sufficient income; andfreedom from threats, discrimination, social exclusion, and cruel andabusive treatment. Read the declaration in its entirety atwww.autism-society.org/humanrights.

ASA Members-Only Savings on MedicAlert® 24-hour Response ServiceFrom ASA President Lee Grossman:Because my son has autism, I've often wondered what would happen if my child wandered off or was in a medical emergency and I was not around...That's why I'm thrilled that the Autism Society of America, in association with our Safe and Sound® Program can offer our members exclusive savings on MedicAlert's invaluable, perhaps even, lifesaving emergency response service.ENROLL NOW: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Lf1JkMEeZSdamZq3wTVsXg..In addition to providing you with peace of mind, a portion of the proceeds from your MedicAlert + Safe and Sound enrollment supports vital ASA programs. But you must act before August 31, 2009 to take advantage of this special members-only introductory offer.How MedicAlert works:When a person with Autism Spectrum Disorder gets hurt or lost, authorities call the toll-free 24-hour emergency response number on the individuals MedicAlert identifier to reach our 24-hour Response Center. The person's family is contacted and in emergency situations vital medical information is provided to emergency responders so they can treat medical conditions appropriately.Find out more about how MedicAlert can protect your loved one.I hope you'll explore if MedicAlert is right for you... And if it is, I hope you'll take advantage of your special ASA member savings.Lee GrossmanPresident and CEOASA member since 1991Parent of a son with autism

Senate Bill 79 moves through testimony March 31, 2009From ODMRDD e-newsletter Pipeline:

Excerpt from SB 79 Sponsor Testimony– MRDD Name ChangeSenator Jimmy ,Senate State and Local Government Committee Yesterday’s testimony on this bill incuded the following comments from Senator : “SB 79 is simple; it would change the name of the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (MRDD) and the County Boards of MRDD, to simply, the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, and the “­­__†County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Several months ago, I attended a meeting at the Athens County Board of Developmental Disabilities where I was asked to sponsor legislation that would remove the term ‘retardation’ from the Ohio Department of MRDD. After listening to numerous constituents explain why the term was offensive to them, I agreed. ‘Retardation’ is an antique term, and Ohio is one of only six states that continue to use it in the official title of a state department. I hope we can all agree that we must do our part to remove this degrading term from an agency funded by the people of the State of Ohio.â€

ASA-ASO supports SB 79.

Latest issue of ASA Advocate Magazine features article by former ASA-ASO board member Sondra

Latest Issue of Autism Advocate Features Perspectives from Individuals on the Autism Spectrum

The April edition of the Autism Advocate, the Autism Society of America’s flagship magazine, was released today and dedicates its entire content to authors and artists with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The authors discuss everyday issues, such as parenting, relationships and even shopping, all from the perspective of people with ASD. Through the articles and artwork showcased, the magazine endeavors to celebrate and bring to light the diversity and varied accomplishments of people on the autism spectrum, and challenge the public to look at a new feature of autism—its growing cultural aspects.

The articles include one by former ASA-ASO board member Sondra : The struggles, challenges and joys of being a parent on the autism spectrum, as told by Sondra , an Ohio-based author, speaker and presenter with autism who is a mother of four and grandmother of one;

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

Training on New IEP and ETR Forms for 2009-2010 School-year The new IEP and ETR Forms for use beginning the 2009-2010 school-year are available on the www.Edresourcesohio.org Web site. Training on the new IEP and ETR Forms are being provided by the regional State Support Teams (SSTs). Trainings are available for educators and parents. Please contact the SST in your region for information and training dates. To find out what SST region you are in click here. SST Web sites: SST 1http://www.sstr1.orgSST 2http://www.loraincountyesc.org/vnews/display.v/SEC/Region%202%20State%20Support%20TeamSST 3http://esc-cc.org/public/rs/sst3 SST 4http://www.sst4.org/public/sst SST 5http://www.sst5.k12.oh.us SST 6http://www.sst6.org SST 7http://www.ncoesc.org/SSTSST 8http://cybersummit.org/SSTSST 9http://www.starkcountyesc.org/sst SST 10http://www.montgomery.k12.oh.us/9189537123213/site/default.asp SST 11http://www.cositpd.org SST 12http://www.sstregion12.org SST 13http://www.sst13.org SST 14http://www.ohioregion14.org SST 15http://rpesd.scoca-k12.org/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab=courses & url=%2Fbin%2Fcommon%2Fcourse.pl%3Fcourse_id%3D_4262_1 SST 16http://www.athensmeigs.com/school_contentPage.aspx?schooliD

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

ODMRDD Community Services 2008 Annual Report now available!This comprehensive report includes information for 2008 pertaining to ODMRDD’s ten Developmental Centers, the Office of Provider Standards and Review; Office of Quality Management, Planning and Analysis ; Systems Innovation and Technical Assistance, and related service groups.

http://mrdd.ohio.gov/CommunityServicesAnnualReportfor2008.htm

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

Governor's Office offering American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Information Sessions Join members of Governor Strickland’s Staff and Executive Agencies for an information session on the economic stimulus package. These sessions will provide information for:· Small, Minority Owned, and Economically Disadvantaged Business Enterprises that want to learn about procurement opportunities through the stimulus package and state government· County, Municipal, and Township government officials· Non-Profit and Community Organizations that may apply for funding or serve individuals eligible for assistanceIn each location, two information sessions will be offered to provide flexibility to attendees. Staff will provide the same presentation during both time periods. The presentation will consist of a 30-minute overview followed by two small group sessions. One session will provide information for organizations that serve individuals. The other session will focus on economic stimulus and other opportunities for businesses. These small group sessions will last approximately 60-minutes and will provide time for questions from attendees. LocationsColumbus:April 13th 2:00pm to 4:00pm and 4:00pm to 6:00pmColumbus State Community College Center for Workforce Development315 Cleveland Avenue, 4th FloorColumbus, OH 43215Cincinnati:April 16th 10:00am to 12:00pm and 12:00pm to 2:00pmTechsolve6705 Steger DriveCincinnati, OH 45237ville:April 23rd from 1:30pm to 3:00pm and 3:30pm to 5:00pmTri-County Adult Career Center15676 State Route 691ville, OH 45764Akron:April 27th from 10:00am to 12:00pm and 12:00pm to 2:00pmUniversity of Akron Student Union303 Carroll StreetAkron, OH 44325 (Shuttles will be available from The East Campus Parking Deck,475 E. Butchtel AveAkron, OH 44325) Dayton:April 17th 10:00am to 12:00pm and 12:00pm to 2:00pmSinclair Community CollegeThe Ponitz Center444 W. 3rd StreetDayton, OH 45402 Cleveland:April 20th from 10:00am to 12:00pm and 12:00pm to 2:00pmCleveland State UniversityMaxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs Atrium1717 Euclid AvenueCleveland, OH 44115Youngstown:April 24th from 10:00am to 12:00pm and 12:00pm to 2:00pmOperating Engineers Local 66 Union Hall 291 McClurg RoadYoungstown, OH 44512Toledo:May 1st from 10:00am to 12:00pm and 12:00pm to 2:00pmOwens Community College30335 Oregon Rd.sburg, OH 43551To register visit http://development.ohio.gov/recovery/RegionalStimulusWorkshops/

For more information about the State of Ohio’s role in the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act please visit www.recovery.ohio.govThe State of Ohio and Governor Ted Strickland have 12 Regional Economic Offices, to learn more about the office near you visit: http://www.development.ohio.gov/edd/RegionalMap.htm

Federal Update:

Comprehensive Autism Legislation Introduced in U.S. CongressThursday, April 2, 2009, Senators Durbin (D-IL), Casey (D-PA), and Menendez (D-NJ) introduced the Autism Treatment and Acceleration Act of 2009 (ATAA). The Autism Society of America applauds this comprehensive autism legislation focused around enhancing quality of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=2jUohm6rs4OaFOtvFWrmgw..

ASA applauds the recent introduction of two bills to mark World Autism Awareness Day by U.S. Representatives Mike Doyle (D-PA) and (R-NJ).The first bill is a House concurrent resolution observing World AutismAwareness Day and calling for greater federal action to address theneeds of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Specifically,this resolution recognizes the importance of autism awareness andexpresses the House of Representatives' commitment to increasefunding for research into the causes and treatment of autism and toimprove training and support for individuals who care for those withautism.The second bill would fund programs addressing autism in thedeveloping world. This legislation, the Global Autism Assistance Act, would authorize $10 million over three years for service providers andadvocacy groups for children with autism specifically in countries withweak healthcare infrastructure and help America regain its leadershipposition around the world. The Global Autism Assistance Act would fundsmall grants to raise autism awareness and create new ways to shareAmerican expertise and advancements in the diagnoses and treatment ofautism with families and medical professionals in countries that haveyet to focus on the worldwide increase in the prevalence of autism.The Global Autism Assistance Act would also establish a "teach theteachers" program in which qualified U.S. specialists would traineducation and health professionals working with children with autismin the developing world. The program would host multiple workshops toenable American education, medical, and psychological specialists toshare their expertise with parents and health and educationprofessionals in the program's pilot regions. This is designed to helpcreate a new corps of professionals in the pilot regions who can thenfan out and help others further their autism assistance programs ontheir own.Help support these important bills by writing to your U.S. representative. Use this link, http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=PmRmgkfxh__izP1qM74tUg.. , to write in support of the World AutismAwareness Day Resolution, and use this link, http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=movGGmW7kkYI17IP613YOw.. , to write in support of theGlobal Autism Assistance Act. Together, we can improve the quality oflive for individuals with autism around the world.

Join the Campaign to Put Patients FirstThe Autism Society of America and the National Health Council wouldlike to encourage you to join the "Campaign to Put Patients First!" Thisis a nationwide initiative dedicated to mobilizing people withlong-term diseases and disabilities to achieve effective andaffordable health care health care that meets your personal needs andgoals. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=uNNd0MtwVxQSfHY9gMHFsQ..ARRA Authorizes Funding for States through CMSThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are committed tohelping to promote economic recovery through implementation of theAmerican Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). The legislation authorizes an estimated $87 billion in additional federal funding for States, in the form of a temporary increase in the funds that the Federal government contributes toward Medicaid and Title IV-Eprograms. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=sJeBIgcYh7or68wUqcaR4g..

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc.:

NEWS from the ASA:

ASA Teams Up with Little, Brown Company to Promote Awareness through "The Horse Boy"In "The Horse Boy," Rupert Isaacson shares his inspiring story of how heand his wife learned to think of their son's autism as anadventure rather than a curse, a beginning rather than an end. Little,Brown and Company is publishing the book on April 14, 2009, and willbe partnering with the Autism Society of America to raise awareness.Both ASA and the book aim to empower families to think creativelyand openly when it comes to treatment. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=hho7_bV-26COQx7ix5W9kQ..Autism Awareness Jigsaw PuzzlesASA and the Autism Puzzle Project are offering newly released AutismAwareness Jigsaw Puzzles for the month of April. These great jigsawpuzzles take the symbol for autism, and make it a meaningful and funway to raise awareness and funds for the cause. The jigsaw puzzlescreated by the Autism Puzzle Project feature art by individuals livingwith autism, and 50% of each sale goes directly to benefit the AutismSociety of America. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Mas5eh3Lx82zycVoGVLQSw..Don't Miss the Next Sensory Friendly Film!The next Sensory Friendly Film will be April 18 with a special showingof "Hannah Montana: The Movie" at 10 a.m. local time. Visitwww.autism-society.org/sensoryfilms to find a theatre near you.http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=iCL40UT6izZfAHJauf5iaQ..Hyperbaric Treatment for Autism Study PublishedHyperbaric treatment for children with autism has reportedly led toimprovements in the condition, though previous studies wereuncontrolled. Now, a new study published in the open access journal,"BMC Pediatrics," is the first controlled trial to report clinicalimprovements. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=HKscQSxGK3_kn4QHSvEe7Q..Survey Explores Medical Care for Children with Autism Using Complementary Alternative MedicineIn a national survey conducted by the University of Minnesota, primarycare physicians report that they are more likely to ask patients withautism about complementary alternative medicine (CAM) use. Thesephysicians also desire more CAM education for this population. Thestudy of 539 U.S. physicians, published this week in Springer's"Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders," explores the attitudesand practices of primary care physicians caring for children withautism using CAM treatments. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=HTFEw7pm1oN0w3oGap7zmw..NIH Presents Summer Opportunities for Students and TeachersSupported by funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act(ARRA) the National Institutes of Health will offer summer researchexperiences for students and science teachers in order to promote job creation and economic development, and to accelerate the pace and achievement of scientific research. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=SAIzAOa_l7UVcE_gB1qNMw..SpeechPathology.com Presents New Online Courses on AutismSpeechPathology.com has put together a collection of 23 live andrecorded courses on autism for Autism Awareness Month this April. TheWeb site has engaged experts from all over the country to havedialogue about their particular area of expertise in treating childrenwith autism. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=CFhYKeoyvyypFbsB9HXi-w..Dr. Holmes to Speak on Adults with AutismIn honor of Autism Awareness Month, Bittersweet, Inc. is presenting aprogram on Adults with Autism with L. Holmes, Ph.D. as thekeynote speaker. Dr. Holmes, an expert on autism, is a prominentauthor, nationally known featured guest on TV and radio and founder ofThe Eden Family of Services. The program will be held at theToledo Lucas County Public Library, 325 North Michigan St., Toledo,Ohio, in the Huntington Meeting Room on April 24, 2009, 9:00 a.m. to12:15 p.m. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=AwlQ8SmotA18v_hJ0-MBdQ..TheGlutenSolution.com Offers Resources for Gluten-Free DietersDue to lack of market regulations, gluten-free consumers often havedifficulty in readily accessing information on which products are safeto consume. To help improve the lives of people following agluten-free diet, Josh Redler and Denis have developed a Website with the goal of providing easily accessible services to makegluten-free living manageable and affordable. TheGlutenSolution.comprovides constantly updated information on which brands and productsare safe for those following a gluten-free diet. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=9im4Y2A5BXgzhNDC6pG23w..New Documentary Looks at "Autistic-Like" SymptomsWhen their son was just 17 months old, k and Jennie Linthorstsuspected something was not quite right. Experts and therapists toldthem their son was autistic. Sort of. Maybe. Some called himautistic-like. Others said he was not autistic at all. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=1SGsnWRmu-TLBNiWrQtwuw..New Children's Book Teaches "Typical Kids" How to Befriend Children with AutismMore than ever before, children with autism are being included inclassrooms with "typical" children. Unfortunately, most of thesechildren will be unprepared and unsure how to engage their new peers."The Friendship Puzzle: Helping Kids Learn About Accepting andIncluding Kids with Autism" is one of the first books to address thissituation. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=vwUnFdLQ3rgUmMojMj7MRA..Parents Tell Story of Triplets with Autism"Three Times the Love: Finding Answers and Hope for Our Triplets withAutism" is the story of an ordinary American family overcomingextraordinary odds. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=P7GwbmVX0wtQxaMKKmVGRw..

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-Dayton Chapter activities Highlighted in Exceptional Parent Magagzine

http://www.eparent.com/main_channels_education/Inflatable_Playgrounds.asp

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-Tri-County Meeting (Youngstown) - April 15th

Monthy Meeting Location:Zion Luthern Church3300 Canfield RoadYoungstown, Ohio(Cornersburg Area)Date: April 15th , 2009Time: 6:30 p.m. (Business Meeting), 7:30 p.m. (Support Group)

ASA-Dayton presents: Ann Anzalone Workshops Parenting for Positive PotentialSpecial Series of FREE Ann Anzalone workshopsWe are pleased to bring you a series of 3 workshops focusing on brain development, nutrition, and learning styles presented by Ann Anzalone

Workshop #1 - The Root Skills of Learning: Understanding Brain Development Description: How does the brain organize to learn? Identify the movements that develop the brain's ability to think and learn. Learn how to help your children develop the root skills of learning, namely coordination, perception, auditory processing, and visual processing.Thursday, April 16, 2009, 6:30 PMWorkshop #2 - Feeding a Healthy Brain: Helping Learning Work Description: How do you grow a healthy brain? Since diet provides the fuel for the brain to work, nutrition is a key piece of the learning puzzle. Learn how to nourish and feed the brain for optimum performance.Thursday, June 18, 2009, 6:30 PMWorkshop #3 - Setting Students Up For Success: Brain Compatible LearningDescription: How do your children learn? Give your children an edge effect. Teach them the way that they learn and they will be more successful in the learning process. Learn how to identify and teach to your own child's learning styles.Thursday, Sept. 17, 2009, 6:30 PMAll workshops will be held at the Miami Valley Regional Center, 4801 Springfield Street, Riverside, OH 45431

Workshops are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Sorry, we cannot accommodate children.Please RSVP to: info@...

Article: How 1 Autistic Young Man Runs a Business

http://health.usnews.com/articles/health/brain-and-behavior/2009/04/02/how-1-autistic-young-man-runs-a-business.html

Webinar: Developing a Seizure Emergency Treatment Plan for the Patient with Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Intellectual Disabilities (ND/ID): A Case Study Discussion

May 19, 2009 7:00-9:30 PM ET Join EP LiveOnlineâ„¢ to learn about the need for a seizure readiness plan; available treatment options within the setting of institutions serving the ND/ID population (state and private-held facilities); unique issues and challenges faced by physicians and allied health care professionals in controlling seizures in the ND/ID Environment. Who Should Attend: Parents, families, caregivers, teachers, school nurses, developmental disability nurses, police, firemen, first-responders, coaches, primary care practitioners, pediatricians and all who work with children and adults who have epilepsy and seizure disorders, Exceptional Family Member Program of the U.S. Military.

Made possible in part by a sponsorship from Valeant Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Supported by The American Academy of Developmental Medicine & DentistryDistinguished faculty includes: Orrin Devinsky, MD Professor of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, New York - Dr. Devinsky's epilepsy research includes quality-of-life, cognitive and behavioral issues in epilepsy, surgical therapy, and new medications. He has published widely in epilepsy and behavioral neurology and has served on the board of the American Epilepsy Society.

For more information or to register, visit http://www.epliveonline.com/ep_20090519.html

Article: The Other Side Of AutismMarch 26, 2009A withdrawn child, Ann Bauer’s son emerged into a well adjusted teen despite having autism. Bauer even thought of him as “cured.†But all of that changed around the time he turned 18.http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2009/03/26/adult-autism/2675/

Article: Scientists Find 'Baffling' Link between Autism and Vinyl Flooring

http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=link-between-autism-and-vinyl

Article: New Theory Of Autism Suggests Symptoms Or Disorder May Be Reversible

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090401145312.htm

Looking for Drawings by Artists with Autism

My name is Jill Mullin. I am an educator with 9 years of professionalexperience working with children and adults who have been diagnosedwith autism; I have a MS in Education as well as a MA in BehavioralPsychology. I am currently working on a book, provisionally titledDRAWING AUTISM. The book has a scheduled release date of November 2009and will be published by Mark Batty Publisher, a publisher thatspecializes in books about visual communication.Over the years I have become more and more interestedin the illustrations people diagnosed on the autism spectrum create.Of course, the visual is how all of us inform ourselves of our placesin the world, but I have found illustrations by people with autismpossess a unique perspective that is acute, both in how they see theworld and how laypeople can be helped to understand how autisticpeople may see the world.Currently I am collecting submissions of works from many artists, allthe work must be completed by individuals on the autism spectrum.Works will be collected through May 15th, 2009.I am writing with the hope that you or someone you know may beinterested in submitting artwork for consideration for this book. Alimited number of artwork will be selected for inclusion in the book.A portion of the proceeds from this book will be donated to autismorganizations.If you are interested in participating in this project please scan andemail any submissions. If you prefer to send samples via mail, mypublisher's address is listed below. If a work is chosen to be partof this book, release forms will be sent to the artist from thepublisher.If you have any specific questions regarding this project please donot hesitate to contact me. Thank you so much for your time andsupport and I look forward to hearing from you.Sincerely,Jill Mullin, MSED BCBAdrawingautism@...Email submissions can be sent to:drawingautism@...Mail Submissions to:Attn: Buzz PooleMark Batty Publisher, LLC36 West 37th Street, Suite 409New York, NY 10018If sending submissions please include your name and/or artists' nameand contact information.

Book: Life with a Partner or Spouse with Asperger Syndrome: Going Over the Edge? Practical Steps to Saving You and Your Relationship by Kathy Marshack Ph.D.; Foreword by Shore Ed.D.

Life with a Partner or Spouse with Asperger Syndrome: Going Over the Edge? delves into the dramatic impact of Asperger Syndrome on the complex world of adult interpersonal relationships. Written by a psychologist who shares poignant true stories - based on her own life as well as the lives of her clients - the book focuses on how partners/spouses of someone with AS can take back his or her life and find true meaning and happiness

http://www.asperger.net/bookstore_9034.htm

INFOhio offers LearningExpress LibraryLearningExpress Library, part of the INFOhio Core Collection, has a new look that is easy to use and provides many skill-building activities. The various Learning Centers listed on the left side menu of LearningExpress Library offer practice tests, exercises and courses to build student skill levels. LearningExpress Library also offers teachers, students and parents free practice tests for Ohio Achievement Tests and Ohio Graduation Tests. LearningExpress Library users must create an account with password so that test practices can be saved under the specific user name. The INFOhio username and password can be requested from your school librarian or by e-mailing central@.... LearningExpress Library is a service of the State Library of Ohio. For more information, click here and scroll down the page to the LearningExpress Library button. Ohio Dept of Education website also has practice tests:http://www.ode.state.oh.us/gd/templates/pages/ODE/ODEGoogleSearch.aspx?page=221 & query=practice%20tests & start=0 & OriginatingURL=/GD/Templates/Pages/ODE/ODEDefaultPage.aspx?Page=1

Seminar: Inclusive Play Symposium 2009 - Play Across The Lifespan

The Hattie Larlham Research Institute and The Play Center at HattieLarlham are proud to announce our "Inclusive Play Symposium 2009 - PlayAcross The Lifespan", to be held April 27 and 28, 2009 in The PlayCenter at Hattie Larlham in Mantua, OH. The symposium focus on the importance of accessible play and recreationto all individuals. Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, SocialWork, and OHMRDD CEUs have been approved.Information on each session and the presenters is posted on the HattieLarlham Website athttp://www.hattielarlham.org/events/2009/playsym.htmSPACE IS LIMITED Participants, so get your registration in TODAY. Should you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me.Keep Playing!Ingrid Ingrid M. Kanics, OTR/LTherapy DirectorHattie Larlham9772 Diagonal RoadMantua, OH 442551-800-233-8611x 3034Fax: 330-732-2505Ingrid.Kanics@...www.hattielarlham.org

Bittersweet Farms workshop - Adults with Autism Advancing Awareness

Keynote Speaker Holmes, panel of adults with autism, parent panel, lunch (optional)

When: Friday April 24, 2009 8:45 am – 1 pm

Where: Toledo Lucas County Public Library Huntington Meeting Room

325 Michigan Street

Toledo, OH

Cost: $10 Register by April 16; optional lunch $8 each

Contact: M. at 419-875-6986 ext. 1236 or

mbennett@...

BGSU 8th Annual Autism Summit “What’s Happening with Autism†The Neurology of Autism with Keynote

Speaker: Minshew, MDWhen: Saturday, June 6, 2009 8 am – 4:30 pm

Where: Bowling green State University

Bowen- Student UnionBowling Green, OH

Cost: $69 with CEUs; $49 without CEUs $15 students

Info: Sherry Pickerel 1-877-650-8165 or psherry@...

http://pace.bgsu.edu/registeronline

Public Transportation Travel Trainers Group Publishes New E-Newsletter The Association of Travel Instruction (ATI) is proud to announce the availability of its new E-newsletter, The Road Ahead E-News. Interested individuals can sign up to receive future issues of the E-News at http://www.travelinstruction.org/newsletter.html. ATI is a 501 © (3) nonprofit association originally incorporated in 2001 to provide continuing education and professional development opportunities to its members­travel trainers and travel instructors who teach persons with differing disabilities and seniors to use fixed-route public bus and rail systems safely and independently. Travel trainers give the gift of “freedom of mobility†to their students, young and aging. Typically, ATI members work for public transportation agencies, school districts, community rehabilitation agencies, adult services providers, mobility management agencies, programs for seniors, transportation management associations, and disability groups. ATI is proud to have members in both the United States and Canada. ATI accomplishes its continuing education/professional development mission via an annual “best practices†conference; the organization’s Ninth Annual Continuing Education Conference is scheduled for July 31st to August 2nd , 2009, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Downtown in St. Louis, Missouri. ATI also educates its members via a quarterly print newsletter, updated website content, and now through The Road Ahead E-News. ATI also maintains an online “registry†of its members that is a first step towards a certification process for travel trainers and travel instructors. Membership in the Association of Travel Instruction is open to anyone with an interest in seeing individuals with disabilities and seniors learn to use fixed-route bus and train systems more effectively. ATI recently launched a “Sponsorship†program in addition to its membership program. For more information about ATI membership or sponsorship, please log on to http://www.travelinstruction.org/ati_membership.html.

Autism Biomedical DVD Set - All New

http://autismtoday.com/dvd-set1.html

ARC of Ohio Day at Cedar Point

Date: May 20, 2009

For more information, visit: http://www.thearcofohio.org/index.php?option=com_events & task=view_detail & agid=121 & year=2009 & month=5 & day=20 & Itemid=50

Milestones April Newsletter

http://www.milestones.org/documents/AprilNewsletter2009.pdf

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