ASO DIGEST: August 3, 2009

[Guest guest]

Dear Friend of the Autism Society of Ohio:

 

Visit 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 ASO:

- Budget update from ODMRDD- Medicaid Schools Program Through ODE

- ODMRDD presents Working with Employers, Best Practices of the Most Successful Employment Specialists

- Ohio DD Council, Ohio SILC and Governor's Council on

People with Disabilities host Open Forum on Developing Successful

Employment Opportunities

- OCALI Conference - Save the Date!

- ASA-ASO has Moved to Columbus!

- Use your Kroger Plus card and raise funds for ASA-ASO

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

- Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

- Federal Update/Alerts    U.S. Signs onto UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities

   

Update on Health-Care Reform   

IACC Issues Request for Information to Update Strategic Plan   

IACC Town Hall Follow-Up         Disability Representatives Meeting with President Obama

    President Obama Marks 19th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

    Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) announced that the Senate would not vote on health reform legislation         until September.    The House Energy and Commerce Committee, chaired by Rep. Henry

Waxman (D-CA) continued its mark-up of the         America's Affordable Health

Choices Act (H.R. 3200).  Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- News from the Autism Society of America:

    Autism Society National Conference a Great Success!    

Panel of Experts Kicks off Autism Society National Conference    

MedicAlert and the Autism Society Announce Partnership at National Conference    

Nature-Nurture Gene Link Sheds New Light on Autism    

New National Professional Competencies for Teachers of Autism    

Fall Defeat Autism Now! Conference to Be Held in Dallas    

New DVD Reminds us That the Way we Speak About Others Matters    

" 2010 Hidden Curriculum One-A-Day Calendar for Older Adolescents and Adults "     

New Book Addresses the Need for Quality Autism Instruction    

New Activity Book for Kids on the Spectrum    

Author Seeks Stories from Families for New Book

- Upcoming Events from the Autism Society of Greater Cleveland- OCECD Audio Conference Series

- The 2009 Autism Grass Roots Tour is coming to Ohio- Presentation: Critical Information on Medicaid, Waiver and Local Levy Funding, Westerville  

- EMIS Newsflash- Update on Changes to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)

- Ohio State MH/MR 7th Annual Conference: Mental Health Aspects: Treatment & Support, Columbus

- Math curriculum for Students with Disabilities

- Article: IPod videos guide social behavior for teens with Asperger's syndrome

- Article: Study disputes theory of autism link to gastrointestinal disorders

- Video: The IEP and You

- 2009 Ohio Award for Excellence in Dual Diagnosis (MI/DD) accepting Nominations

- Ohio Self Determination Association accepting Award Nominations

- Excerpts from the GRASP Newsletter

- People First of Toledo Meeting

- Workshop: Hidden Disabilities 101: Autism, ADD, ADHD Inclusion in the Church

- Free Movie Screening for Milestones friends - Asperger's Romance Adam, Cleveland area

   

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.

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.

 

Sincerely,

 

Autism Society Ohio1335 Dublin Rd., Suite 205-CColumbus, OH 43215(614) 487-4726

fax: (614) 487-4725general email: askASO@...

web: www.autismohio.org

 

News From ASA-ASO:

Budget update from ODMRDDFrom the ODMRDD e-newsletter Pipeline:Specific budget information pertaining to the developmental disabilities community, and the ODMRDD in general, indicates that, while there are challenges in meeting the needs of more than 80,000 individuals with developmental disabilities and their families with reduced funding, the Administration allowed needed funding for some key programs and services.

Budget items of note include:    * As a result of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), Medicaid programs are receiving enhanced federal reimbursement through December 2010.  This decreased the reliance on General Revenue Funds (GRF) for those programs, which in turn caused the appearance of a decrease from fiscal year 2009 levels -- however the same number of services can be supplied at a lower state match.  Example: The state match for the waivers funded by the Settlement was reduced by the offsetting amount of federal reimbursement, but will continue to pay for 1,500 waivers.

    * Subsidies paid to County Boards increased 12% from the fiscal year 2009 level after reductions, but is significantly lower than what was paid in fiscal year 2008.     * New language was included in the bill and a new GRF line item was created for state-operated Developmental Centers to begin paying the ICFMR franchise fee.  The payment of this fee will allow the Department to begin receiving additional federal reimbursement in fiscal year 2012.

    * The Central Office GRF line item was reduced by 15% from the fiscal year 2009 level after reductions.  This represents a 58% reduction from 2008 GRF aapropriation level. The Department is in the midst of restructuring certain areas in an effort to gain administrative efficiencies.

    * The line item that supplies a portion of the payment to Advocacy and Protective Services Inc. (APSI) for guardianship services was reduced by 15%.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Medicaid Schools Program Through ODEFrom the ODMRDD e-newsletter Pipeline:While financial resources seem to be dwindling everywhere, there is one new funding option that, according to the Ohio Department of Education (ODE), will allow local and community or charter schools to deliver Medicaid services (in the school) – an option that has not been available for some time.  The program is called the Medicaid Schools Program, or MSP.

Through this program, schools also have the option, through contracts, to work with agencies such as County Boards of Developmental Disabilities and Educational Service Centers (ESCs) to deliver these services.  Those in the educational system may remember the Community Alterative Funding System, otherwise known as CAFS. This program, which ended in 2005, allowed for a number of therapy services to be delivered to people with developmental disabilities. The program ended for several reasons, including difficulty in determining service costs, unclear fiscal controls, and limitations as to who could receive services.

Learning from these past programmatic issues, ODE has worked with local, state, and federal partners to develop a way to deliver needed therapy and other medically-related services in the school setting under Medicaid once again.

Through collaborative efforts at the local, state, and federal level, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has approved funding for the Medicaid Schools Program.Here’s How MSP Works:The program gives schools the ability to cover these medically-necessary services to children, and receive Medicaid funding to cover them. While no additional services are available to students with the MSP, it does give the school district the opportunity to bill Medicaid for a portion of the costs of this service delivery at a time when their resources are shrinking.

School-based services that are covered include physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychology, mental health, some nursing services, medical equipment and supplies (used in the school setting), transportation related to these services, and other services currently available in the community.

Important is that administrative activities related to these services are reimbursable – for example, students would not see reductions in therapy time to complete related paperwork -- both the therapy and the paperwork time are reimbursed.

For a student (age 3-21) to receive services funded under the MSP, there are no application forms to complete.  If the school is an MSP provider (and more than 400 currently are), and the student is Medicaid eligible with an Individual Educaiton Plan (IEP), the student should be able to have services reimbursed through this program if their services are indicated on an IEP.

MSP services do not directly impact other Medicaid services outside the school setting. Whether a student is using the Medicaid State Plan card, or is enrolled in a Medicaid Managed Care plan, there will not be an impact on services received outside the school setting, nor is there any financial obligation such as a spend-down or patient liability created by accessing these services.

To find out more about the Medicaid Services Program, visit the ODE web page at www.ode.state.oh.us and type in the word “Medicaid” in the Search tool . For questions about MSP, email schoolmedicaid@....

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------ODMRDD presents Working with Employers, Best Practices of the Most Successful Employment Specialists

The Ohio Department of MRDD is funding Working with Employers…The Best Practices of the Most Successful Employment Specialists through the 2009 MIG (Medicaid Infrastructure Grant). In 2009, 10 two-day training sessions will be held across the state of Ohio. The first day will involve classroom instruction and will focus on knowing the business case, marketing the business case to employers, presentations that persuade and motivate, customer service negotiations that preserve relationships, handling difficult customer service situations (case studies), and dealing with behavioral issues at work. The second day will offer an opportunity for trainees to apply what they learned during day one. There will be case studies that highlight each of the best practices, presentations by participants in teams and a review of participants’ current marketing materials. Presentations will be evaluated by the trainees’ peers, the instructor and a local employer.

The sessions are limited to an average of 20 people per session since this is advanced training and will require active participation by the participants. Register early to assure your seat.  Instructors:  Instructors - or Pat Wear:  The training will be provided by , President of Resources, Inc. (WRI) or Pat Wear, Senior Vice President. Ms. is an expert on employment for people with disabilities who has worked in states across the nation. WRI developed and is providing staff support to 10 local, award-winning Business Leadership Networks (BLNs), employer-to-employer organizations, which market the employment of people with disabilities. More than 600 BLN employer members have joined the local Florida BLNs. Ms. is a board member of the National Association for Persons in Supported Employment (APSE) and selected as the 2004 Businesswoman of the Year, presented by the National Congressional Committee’s Business Advisory Council. Mr. Wear has spent more than 30 years in service to people with disabilities. His experience is broader than most other professionals. He has worked as a state agency Commissioner for Mental Health and Mental Retardation, a staff member of a protection and advocacy agency. In his role as executive director of the Arc, Springfield in Illinois, Mr. Wear ran an award-winning supported employment program.  He is a certified management instructor.

Who May Attend?  Individuals from all areas of the state are invited to attend the trainings of their choice. Register early to assure your participation. There is no charge for the training.How Do I Know Where the Training is Being Held? Pre-registration is required. Once you register, you will be sent an email confirmation providing specific instructions and information on the training’s location.

Pre-Registration is required.  Seating is Limited!PHONE: 850/386-2022or EMAIL to: wilsonresources@...; Resources, Inc.2908 Capital Park Drive, Suite A

Tallahassee, FL  32301www.wilres.com------------------------------------------------------------------------Ohio DD Council, Ohio SILC and Governor's Council on People with Disabilities host Open Forum on Developing Successful Employment Opportunities

Tuesday, August 18, 200910 am – 4 pmHyatt Regency Hotel350 N. High StreetColumbus OH 43215 Hosted by:Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council

Ohio Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities In April 2009, the U.S. Department of Labor listed people with disabilities in the labor force at only 22.8% as compared to 70.9% for people without disabilities. Surveys have shown over and over again that individuals with disabilities want to work. However, the current opportunities and services to support people with disabilities in gaining employment are not working.

Now is the time to hear from people with disabilities themselves about how to make positive change.This forum will provide an opportunity to inform policymakers about personal work experiences. People with disabilities, their families, friends and people who serve them are encouraged to attend this open forum and share their employment experiences, successes, barriers, frustrations and suggestions.

Register today! Come and give your personal testimony. Make your voice heard.Free and open to the public. Come prepared to provide oral (not more than five minutes) or written testimony, or to support those who are presenting at the hearing.

All testimony will be recorded and a summary will be prepared. The final report will include recommendations to improve gainful employment for people with all types of disabilities. It will be shared with people who can make a difference—service providers, legislators, government officials, employers and others.

Registration is required for people planning to attend in person. A limited amount of financial assistance is available for people to attend. To register and/or request assistance, visit http://www.rsc.state.oh.us/RSCDocuments/Employ%20Opport.pdf .  Questions?  Please Contact:   AXIS Center, 614-263-8076, axiscenter@....

If you would like to tell your employment story but are unable to attend, please fill out a Registration Form and send it along with your story. You may email, fax or mail your story by August 24 to:        AXIS Center                               Fax: 614-262-8124

        249 E. Cooke Rd.                          Email:  axiscenter@...        Columbus OH 43214Parking is available in lots around the Hyatt or in the underground garage. Rates range from $12-15 a day.

Questions?  Contact:   AXIS Center, 614-263-8076, axiscenter@...AGENDA9-10  Registration10:00   Welcome        Introduction of Special Guests:

        - Governor’s Employment & Disability Group

        - Directors of State Agencies10:10   Opening Message:        - Amy McGee, Executive Assistant for Health & Human Services, Governor Strickland’s Office   10:30   Keynote Presentation by the new Administrator of the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission

        - Rench11:00   Open Forum (begins)12:00   Lunch        Medicaid Buy-In Presentation 1:15  Open Forum (continues)3:30  Wrap-up & ClosingTestimony tips:If you will be telling your employment story in person, make some notes to bring with you, or practice with a friend or family member ahead of time. Keep your story short. Talk about the most important things. You will have only five minutes to speak. Don’t be nervous. You’ll be talking to people who want to listen to you.

If you are submitting your story in writing, type it or write it clearly on a blank sheet of paper. Put your name at the top of the page and send a completed Registration Form with your story.Complete a form for each person registering. For a registration form, visit: http://www.rsc.state.oh.us/RSCDocuments/Employ%20Opport.pdf .  Questions?  Please Contact:   AXIS Center, 614-263-8076, axiscenter@...

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OCALI Conference - Save the Date!

The OCALI Statewide Ohio Conference is

going to be held in Columbus November 17-19, 2009!  ASA-ASO will again

be subsidizing registrations for parents and will be sponsoring a

" parents corner " as part of the exposition.  The Parent's Corner will

be a place where parents can go to meet and network with other

parents.  In addition, there will be informal sessions on a variety of

topics including the autism scholarship, early intervention,

transition, adult services, etc.  For complete information on the

conference, visit http://conference.ocali.org/---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ASA-ASO has moved to Columbus!

After

being located in Akron and the NE Ohio area for our entire existence,

ASA-ASO has moved, effective July 1, 2009, to Columbus.  Moving there

puts ASA-ASO at the center of the state and no more than 2 1/2 hours

from any part of the state.  Additionally, since state government is

based in Columbus, it is the logical place for ASA-ASO to be located. 

Our new location is in an office building on the southwest side of the

city - just off of I670 and a quick drive to downtown.  Our new address

is:  1335 Dublin Road, Suite 205-C, Columbus, Ohio, 43215, phone:  (614) 487-4726, fax: (614) 487-4725.

Use your Kroger Plus card and raise funds for ASA-ASO

 

Help

raise funds for ASA-ASO just by using your Kroger Plus Card!  You can

now earn funds for ASA-ASO just by using your Kroger Plus Card and it

will cost you absolutely nothing!

 

For 125 years, The Kroger Co. has made a strong commitment to support the communities where its associates live and work.

In

the Columbus Division (comprising most of Ohio and parts of West

Virginia), the Kroger Cares program has helped more than 2,200

organizations raise funds for their own needs since its inception in

1995.

Beginning

May 1, 2009, Kroger's is launching the Kroger Community Rewards Program

and dedicating $5,000,000 to it! This program will enable them even

more organizations, of all sizes - including ASA-ASO!

 

Remember,

all of the funds raised stay right here in Ohio to help individuals

with autism and their families throughout Ohio.  Visit the ASA-ASO

website to see some of the programs and services that ASA-ASO offers.

 

Please share this information with any friends and family that may be Kroger shoppers!

 

TO USE THE KROGER COMMUNITY REWARDS PROGRAM:

Register online at krogercommunityrewards.com

Be sure to have your Kroger Plus card handy and register your card with ASA-ASO after you sign up.

If you do not yet have a Kroger Plus card, they are available at the customer service desk at any Kroger. Click on Sign In/Register

If you are a new online customers, you must click on SIGN UP TODAY in the ‘New Customer?’ box.

Sign

up for a Kroger Rewards Account by entering zip code, clicking on

favorite store, entering your email address and creating a password,

agreeing to the terms and conditions You will then get a message to check your email inbox and click on the link within the body of the email.

Click on My Account and use your email address and password to proceed to the next step.

Click on Edit Kroger Community Rewards information and input your Kroger Plus card number. Update or confirm your information.

Enter ASA-ASO's organization number - 83893 or name of organization as ASA AUTISM SOCIETY OF OHIO CHAPTER, select organization from list and click on confirm.

To verify you are enrolled correctly, you will see your organization’s name on the right side of your information page.

REMEMBER, purchases will not count for ASA-ASO until after you register your Kroger Plus card.

Do you use your phone number at the register?  Call 877-576-7587 to get your Kroger Plus card number. You must

swipe their registered Kroger Plus card or use the phone number that is

related to your registered Kroger Plus card when shopping for each

purchase to count.

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

The

Ohio Budget is currently under development and autism insurance parity

legislation is ready to be re-introduced in the Ohio House. 

Additionally, issues regularly come before the state legislature that

impact individuals with autism, their families and those who work them

throughout Ohio.   And because of this, the ASA-Autism Society of Ohio needs your help.  

 

We

are in the process of putting together an autism advocacy network that

has constituents in each of the districts of the members of the Ohio

General Assembly, both the House and Senate.  We are looking for

advocates all around the state to help us with this effort.

 

You can volunteer to participate in two ways:

·         Team

Leader:  Each Ohio district will have an assigned team leader who is

responsible for carrying the key ASA-ASO/autism messages when meeting

with the legislator (Representatives and Senators), coordinating

testimony or letter writing for hearings, and for organizing the team

members of their district, etc. 

·         Team

Member:  Each Ohio district will have several team members that are

available to share their own personal ASA-ASO/autism story, to write

letters when needed, and to ask from help from their

neighbors/families/friends.  Team members may choose specialize on

certain topics – ie. autism insurance parity topic, special education

funding, etc. 

 

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

 

If you are interested in participating in this effort, please send your Name, address, city,

zip+4, phone, email address, House District Number and Senate District

number and whether you are interested in being a “Team Leader” or a

“Team Member” to askASO@....  Please put AUTISM ADVOCACY NETWORK in the subject line.  To find your district numbers, visit www.legislature.state.oh.us and follow the directions under " Locating Legislators " .

 

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

Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

 

Because

of privacy concerns, the Ohio BMV will no longer be releasing the names

and addresses of those who purchase the Ohio Autism Awareness License

Plate to the ASA-Autism Society of Ohio.  $25 from the purchase of each

plate benefits the ASA-ASO and we have been sending thank you notes to

all those who have purchased a plate.  However, we will no longer be

able to do so.  The BMV is currently looking into options to add

customer consent to the special license plate process so hopefully we

will be able to go back to thanking folks formally in the future.  But

whether we are able to send a formal " thank you " or not, please know

that the purchase of an autism awareness license plate makes a big

difference and helps us help individuals with autism, their families

and those who work with them throughout Ohio.

Federal Update

From the Autism Society of America:

U.S. Signs onto UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Today, the United States joins 141 other nations who have signed the

United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. 

The signing of the UN Convention sends an important message that this

country is committed to equal rights for people with disabilities, in

the United States and around the world.  Read more:

http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=lQxpahhyjDGiWuzZThAcsw..

Update on Health-Care Reform

The timeline on health-care reform has shifted, as the Senate and

House are both expected to take their usual August recess without

having put the health-care bills to vote on the floor. Despite

President Obama's continued calls for urgent action, both

Chambers of Congress are on pace to miss the President's

original August deadline. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=YeXZVB8gKP-DsdLR0yge7Q..

IACC Issues Request for Information to Update Strategic Plan

On behalf of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC), the

National Institute of Mental Health is seeking comments to inform the

annual update of the IACC Strategic Plan for Autism Spectrum Disorder

(ASD) Research, as required by the Combating Autism Act of 2006 (P.L.

109-416). Read more:

http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=STFyFD8DVVJgjEDxG5WbtA..

IACC Town Hall Follow-Up

The IACC held a successful Town Hall meeting at the Autism Society

National Conference in St. , Ill., and would like to thank the

members of the public who attended. If you were unable to attend the

meeting, you can watch the video from the event at

http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Ek3Emsd9n6r9q94-NB4BRA.. .From the Disability Policy Coalition:

Disability Representatives Meeting with President ObamaOn July 24, President Obama met with 12 representatives of the disability community along with Attorney General Holder, Secretary of Labor Solis, and senior White House officials in advance of the East Room ceremony announcing the decision to sign the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (see below).  A broad range of issues were addressed, including: Olmstead enforcement; health care reform; the need to end the institutional bias in Medicaid; employment; education; technology; civil rights policy; reducing the waiting period for Americans with Disabilities Act complaints to be resolved; internet accessibility, enforcement of the affirmative action provisions in the Rehabilitation Act; protecting children from the use of aversives and restraints; and implementing a government-wide strategy to improve the representation of people with significant disabilities in the federal workforce.   The disability community representatives came away believing that the President, his Cabinet representatives, and his senior White House staff are committed to working with the disability community to achieve the goals of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  The representatives expect to follow up with key officials on all of the issues discussed at the meeting.

President Obama Marks 19th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)Also on July 24, in a White House ceremony with many people with disabilities and advocates in attendance, President Obama marked the 19th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by announcing that the United States will sign the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).   United States Ambassador to the United Nations Rice will sign the treaty on July 30th at the United Nations as required under international legal arrangements.  Upon her signature, the U.S. must uphold the general purpose of the treaty, but is not legally bound under international law to any specific article until the Senate ratifies the treaty.  Senate ratification requires a 2/3rds majority.  The CRPD addresses barriers that impede the full inclusion and participation of people with disabilities in their communities. Its provisions touch on all aspects of daily life, such as education, employment, living independently and being included in community life.  President Obama was introduced by Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton.  Nearly a dozen members of Congress who played instrumental roles in the enactments of the ADA also participated.  T Read the President's remarks at:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/Remarks-by-the-President-on-Rights-of-Persons-with-Disabilities-Proclamation-Signing/

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) announced that the Senate would not vote on health reform legislation until September.Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT), Sen. Kent Conrad (D-ND), Sen. Jeff Bingaman (D-NM), Ranking Member Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Sens. Mike Enzi (R-WY), and Olympia Snowe (R-ME) continued negotiations to produce a bi-partisan bill that is deficit neutral.

The House Energy and Commerce Committee, chaired by Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA) continued its mark-up of the America's Affordable Health Choices Act (H.R. 3200).  Rep. Pallone (D-NJ) offered an amendment that included a version of the CLASS Act, which was accepted.  Later in the week, the mark-up was terminated due to concerns from fiscally conservative " Blue Dog " Democrats on the committee that the overall bill costs too much and does not sufficiently decrease long term health care costs. The Blue Dogs met with President Obama and held several meetings with Chairman Waxman and the House leadership. At week's end, nothing was resolved.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Upcoming Events, Resources, etc.:

News from the Autism Society of America:

Autism Society National Conference a Great Success!Thank you to everyone who made the 2009 National Conference sosuccessful! The Autism Society would especially like to thank its sponsors: AMC Entertainment Inc., MetDesk, Eden Autism Services, MedicAlert, Flaghouse, Santa America, Integrative Hyperbaric Chambers,

Indiana Resource Center for Autism, Monarch Center for Autism, DanMarino Foundation and Easter Seals. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Rla9q1qlFtdFCybOuSs3Vw..

Panel of Experts Kicks off Autism Society National ConferenceWhat is the future of autism? The Autism Society attempted to answerthis question as the organization opened its 40th National Conference

on Autism Spectrum Disorders in St. , Ill., on Thursday, July22nd. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=RlrxVsVs8k_jGsyRo6oCjg..

MedicAlert and the Autism Society Announce Partnership at National ConferenceDuring the opening keynote session of the Autism Society's 40thNational Conference on Autism Spectrum Disorders, MedicAlert

Foundation CEO Dr. Kabat joined Autism Society President & CEO Lee Grossman in announcing a new program to safeguard individuals with autism. Read more:http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=SVN863xUhura6qlnDRUOUg..

Nature-Nurture Gene Link Sheds New Light on AutismNeuroscientists at MIT's Picower Institute for Learning andMemory found that a previously unsuspected set of genes links natureand nurture during a crucial period of brain development. The results,

reported in the July 8 issue of the Proceedings of the NationalAcademy of Sciences (PNAS), could lead to treatments for autism andother disorders thought to be tied to brain changes that occur whenthe developing brain is very susceptible to inputs from the outside

world. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=B4X3nV41CjEQGRHdhILQbg..New National Professional Competencies for Teachers of Autism

The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and the Autism Society announced the publication of professional competencies for teaching students with autism spectrum disorders at the Autism Society's 40th National Conference on Autism Spectrum Disorders in St. , Illinois, last week. The competencies will be incorporated into CEC's resource on highly qualified teachers, " What Every Special Educator Needs to Know. " Read More:

http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Kr0PnEu9nIuJWq_JVvDdEg..Fall Defeat Autism Now! Conference to Be Held in Dallas

The upcoming fall Defeat Autism Now!® Conference will be held October 8-12 in Dallas, Texas. The Defeat Autism Now! conference provides

those interested in biomedical approaches to autism the opportunity toconnect with leading researchers in the field. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=2oqmX4beLVUeKJHubptIjg..

New DVD Reminds us That the Way we Speak About Others MattersOne in 150 children in the United States has autism and experienceswhat it is like to be outnumbered by neurotypical peers. As an adultwith an autism diagnosis, Judy Endow has experienced first-hand what

it feels like to be the " 1 " in 150. Based on a poem " The Language of Us and Them " (Shevin, 1987), Endow's " The Power of Words " DVD combines words, pictures and music to present powerful examples of how the " 149 " talk about the " 1 " with autism. Read more:

http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=YDBOouafROJTQETGNOMCMQ.. " 2010 Hidden Curriculum One-A-Day Calendar for Older Adolescents and Adults "

The " 2010 Hidden Curriculum One-A-Day Calendar for Older Adolescents and Adults " is filled with year-round entries specifically written for adolescents and adults with autism-related disorders. This unique calendar is designed to be a fun learning tool that is suitable for

the home or office. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Sc9T61HmmYbEi-0MtjvMaA..New Book Addresses the Need for Quality Autism Instruction

AutismClassroom.com has launched a new book for educators,administrators and parents that includes practical, hands-oninformation about the elements needed in a classroom to provideinstruction to students with autism. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=atYkNLuoGCLVoO6rxuKMCQ..

New Activity Book for Kids on the SpectrumTara Delaney, an occupational therapist and co-owner of Steps Therapy,Inc., an occupational and speech therapy clinic in Sacramento, Calif.,has written the book " 101 Games and Activities for Children with

Autism, Asperger's, and Sensory Processing Disorders " (McGraw-Hill), which will be published on August 7, 2009. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=EnxAwfyr4l3AEM6GY2MpAg..

Author Seeks Stories from Families for New Book A. LaPorta and his wife and are blessed to have a five-year-oldson with autism. is currently seeking stories from families thathave children with autism for his new book, " Adventures in Autism. " Read more:

http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=mxbGt0a_yIgqQAof9DdrMA..----------------------------------------------------------------------

Upcoming Events from the Autism Society of Greater Cleveland

Monday, August 3, 2009 @ 6:30 PM - ASGC Monthly MeetingPlease join us at The City of Independence Civic Center, 6363 Selig Drive, Independence, OH as we welcome Sandy Richman, Speech/Language Pathologist from Wickliffe City Schools.  She will speak about using visual aides and schedules for those individuals with ASD.  We have switched rooms to the Willow Room in the Civic Center.  Please note that child care will not be available for this month only. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009 at 7:00 PM - ASGC/N.Central Chapter Monthly MeetingPlease join us at the Avon Lake Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., Avon Lake, OH to network with other parents, caregivers, professionals and those individuals on the spectrum.  This site does not offer child care.  Admission is free and all are welcome.

Saturday, August 29, 2009 from Noon - 3:00 PM - Picnic for teens/adults w/ASDAll teens/adults with ASD and their families are invited to join us for a picnic at The City of Independence Kiwanis Pavilion.  We look forward to an afternoon of games and fun.  Admission is FREE.  The ASGC and Autism Speaks will provide pop/water/hot dogs.  Please bring a dish to share.  Any individual requiring assistance or supervision must have a caregiver with them at the picnic at all times.  RSVP is required by August 24, 2009 at (216) 556-4937 or support@....

September 12, 2009 - Part for the Puzzle Tailgate Party at The Ironwood CafePlease join the ASGC at The Ironwood Cafe, 6888 Dover Center Rd., Westlake, OH 44145 for a Tailgate Party " OSU Vs. USC " 8:00 PM ESPN Game.  From 4:00 PM till 7:00 PM all you can eat/drink, chinese raffle and more.  Tickets are $40.00 per person and are available by calling (216) 556-4937 or Eisenmann at (440) 241-8833 or support@....  All proceeds benefit the ASGC.

The Autism Society of Greater ClevelandP.O. Box 41066Brecksville, OH  44141(216) 556-4937www.asgc.org

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OCECD Audio Conference Series

Aug. 6, 2009  Time: 10:00 - 11:30 AMWhere: AUDIO CONFERENCE TRAINING - MUST PRE-REGISTER,

Topic: UNDERSTANDING/WRITING IEP'SPresenter: VALORIE DOMBROSKASContact: REGISTER ON LINE - www.ocecd.orgAug. 11, 2009Time: 10:00 - 11:30 AMWhere: AUDIO CONFERENCE TRAINING - MUST PRE-REGISTER

Topic: PARENTS' RIGHTSPresenter: NANCY JONESContact: REGISTER ON LINE - www.ocecd.orgAug. 20, 2009Time: 7:00 - 8:30 PMWhere: AUDIO CONFERENCE TRAINING - MUST PRE-REGISTER

Topic: UNDERSTANDING/WRITING IEP'SPresenter: VALORIE DOMBROSKASContact: REGISTER ON LINE - www.ocecd.org  Aug. 25, 2009Time: 7:00 - 8:30 PMWhere: AUDIO CONFERENCE TRAINING - MUST PRE-REGISTER

Topic: PARENTS' RIGHTSPresenter: NANCY JONESContact: REGISTER ON LINE - www.ocecd.org

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The 2009 Autism Grass Roots Tour is coming to OhioHear Raun K. Kaufman share his story! Attend this FREE LECTURE and LEARN:

    * Where to begin after a diagnosis    * What to add to existing treatments    * Biomedical treatments    * Dietary intervention    * Sensory integration    * Educational, enzyme and play therapies

    * Living toxin-free    * How to stay inspiredThe events are free and open to family members and health professionals seeking autism education.The Autism Grass Roots Tour is an initiative of the Autism Hope Alliance, a nonprofit foundation working to promote education about autism and provide immediate help for children challenged by autism and other neurological difficulties.

We apologize for any inconvenience, however, the tour is not equipped to accommodate children. Autism Grass Roots Tour - Akron, OhioMonday, August 24, 2009 at 6:00 PM (ET)Akron, OH | Mustard Seed Market

Autism Grass Roots Tour - Westerville, OhioTuesday, August 25, 2009 at 12:00 PM (ET)Westerville, OH | Raisin RackAutism Grass Roots Tour - Columbus, OhioTuesday, August 25, 2009 at 6:00 PM (ET)

Columbus, OH | Whole Foods MarketAutism Grass Roots Tour - Centerville, OhioWednesday, August 26, 2009 at 6:00 PM (ET)Centerville, OH | Health Foods Unlimited For more information or to register, visit http://www.agrt.org/

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Presentation: Critical Information on Medicaid, Waiver and Local Levy Funding 

At Heritage Christian Church7413 Maxtown RdWesterville OH 43082 Wednesday August 19, 20096:30pm to 8:30 pmRoom 247 A & B 2nd floorSign in at main entrance Speakers: Tonks and Marie Crawford

The Arc of Ohio Solve the mystery of state and county fundingAnd what it means for your child.Get all your questions answered. RSVP: (614)898-9412 x 405 The Alternative Center LLC.Homeschool - Continuing Ed. - Adult Day Services - Social Club

“Serving students and adults with special needs for more than 10 years” Connie Warner BS Ed. 614-890-6475      Carol Peifer Co-Director 614-537-4664CJWarner@...                          cspeifer@...

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EMIS Newsflash

EMIS Newsflash is a periodic communication to school district staff vendors and other interested parties that work with the Education Management Information System in some capacity - this is the system that list and tracks students. It features late breaking news and links to current resources and tools provided by the Ohio Department of Education. Past issues are archived at the end of each fiscal year.  For a listing of newsletters, visit http://education.ohio.gov/GD/Templates/Pages/ODE/ODEDetail.aspx?Page=3 & TopicRelationID=755 & Content=70945

Of interest may be the June 30 newletter about Special Education Critical Data Reviews.  Parents may contact ODE/OEC for further information or false reporting on their childrens EMIS report inregards to their childs IEP/Transition plan.

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Update on Changes to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)

Report of the DSM-V Neurodevelopmental Disorders Work Grouphttp://www.psych.org/MainMenu/Research/DSMIV/DSMV/DSMRevisionActivities/DSM-V-Work-Group-Reports/Neurodevelopmental-Disorders-Work-Group-Report.aspx

----------------------------------------------------------------Bittersweet Farms - Fall on the Farms

October 10, 2009

http://home.tbbs.net/semisweet/news/bsfnews.php

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Ohio State MH/MR 7th Annual Conference: Mental Health Aspects: Treatment & Support

September 22nd & 23rd, 2009Double Tree Hotel, Columbus / Worthington, OHhttp://www.thenadd.org/pages/conferences/092209/index.shtml

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Math curriculum for Students with Disabilities

All-inclusive math curriculum supports age neutral instruction—AbleNet Equals™ Math Curriculum brings effective math instruction for differing student abilities in any classroom. Equals age neutral edition supports Elementary, Middle, and High School students with teachers guides, assessments, worksheets, and manipulatives.

http://www.ablenetinc.com/Home/Equals/tabid/460/Default.aspx

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Article: IPod videos guide social behavior for teens with Asperger's syndrome

A Minneapolis program is using iPods to help teens with Asperger's syndrome overcome difficulties with social interaction. Staff at the Fraser Child & Family Center created a set of short videos demonstrating social skills that can be stored and viewed on an iPod. " It's a mental checklist for things to think about when you're interacting with other people, " a program worker explained.

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/health/51702302.html?elr=KArks:DCiUo3PD:3D_V_qD3L:c7cQKUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU

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Article: Study disputes theory of autism link to gastrointestinal disorders

Researchers examined 18 years of records on more than 100 children with autism and found no evidence supporting the common belief that gastrointestinal disorders are an underlying cause of the disorder. Many parents put children with autism on gluten-free or dairy-free diets, but the study indicates such diets might do more harm than good by leading to nutritional deficiencies.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/28/health/28autism.html?_r=1

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Video: The IEP and You

For those that may be newer to the IEP process:http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2009/06/16/video-iep-english/3672/

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2009 Ohio Award for Excellence in Dual Diagnosis (MI/DD) accepting Nominations

Purpose of Award: The purpose of this award is to promote and recognize excellence in the field of dual diagnosis. The Award will be presented at the Ohio NADD Conference, September 22-23, 2009 at the Doubletree Hotel, Columbus, OH.

Criteria for Selection: Providers of service to individuals with co-occurring intellectual disabilities and mental illness in Ohio, academicians researchers, legislators, educators, communications media specialists, administrators, family members and persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities.

Person with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) or family member who has made a distinctive and unique contribution through which a significant number of persons with I/DD and mental illness in Ohio have benefitted from an improved quality of life.

Outstanding service and unique efforts have made significant advances in understanding and knowledge in the field of dual diagnosis, or whose efforts have called attention to the plight of individuals with dual diagnosis and consequently enhanced the delivery of services, or through whose efforts have demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to the field of dual diagnosis, or whose efforts have resulted in an improved quality of life for a significant number of persons with I/DD and mental illness.

Submission Guidelines: Please submit a statement concerning your reason(s) for recommending a candidate to be considered for this award. Also, submit the candidates name, address, telephone number, fax number, and E-mail address as well as your own.

Please submit your nomination of candidates for the Award of Excellence by August 15, 2009 to:Dr. Betsey Benson at benson.3@... ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ohio Self Determination Association accepting Award Nominations

As the Ohio Self Determination Association prepares for our upcoming conference, we would like to honor those individuals, family members and professionals that have played a role in advancing the concepts of self determination across Ohio.  Could you please forward this notice on your list serve, post in any upcoming newsletters and help spread the word on these awards.

  Nominations NoticeESDY Award Nominations — ESDYAwards are presented to individuals who havePlayed a role in advancing the concepts ofSelf-determination. Nominees are evaluated basedon creativity, how he/she has supported the

principles of Self Determination and his/hercontribution toward system change. Deadline forsubmission is August 21. Send submission tolhurst@...

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From the GRASP Newsletter: " What they CAN do - not what they can't " is Carley's latest article in Autism Spectrum News. It's the cover story on the front page! It describes advances made during the last decade. We have come a long way, baby - with advocacy and peer-run networks by adults on the spectrum.

You can read the entire article on the website of the Autism Spectrum News:  www.mhnews-autism.org .Article: Challenging popular myths about autismhttp://www.commonsnews.org/test3/story.php?articleno=694 & page=1

Autistic LicenseAsperger's is the new ‘it' disorder on screen and in fiction.From  Canadian magazine Macleans - http://www2.macleans.ca/2009/07/13/autistic-licence/

GRASP The Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership, Inc. 666 Broadway, Suite 830 New York, NY 10012 p + f = 1.888.474.7277 www.grasp.org

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People First of Toledo MeetingFor People With Disabilities And Their Friends

Thursday, August 20, 20096:30pm to 8:30pmAbility Center5605 Monroe St.Sylvania, Ohio 43560TDD 419-882-2387419-885-5733419-882-0941 The ArcTOPICHealthy & Happy Living with speakers from

ProMedica HealthSystem• A Personal Trainer will talk about the benefits of exercising for everyone.• A Dietician will talk about healthy and tasty eating.• A Nurse will talk about personal hygiene.

If you ride TARPS you must contact TARPS 2 days before you need your ride.If you have any questions, please callJo Rita Fox, President, at 419-727-8052,Wanda Huber, Vice President at 419-476-2516

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Workshop: Hidden Disabilities 101: Autism, ADD, ADHD Inclusion in the Church

Dr. Grcevich, Key Ministry FoundationSheri Halagan, BS in Education/ParentJoni and Friends Through the Roof Academy WorkshopsAll in the Family: Practical Strategies for Communicating with Parents

Embracing Special Needs Families: Responding to God’s CallSetting up Your Sunday School Classroom for All of God’s ChildrenThe impact of ADHD on Spiritual DevelopmentBeginning a Disability Ministry in Your Church

Location: Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1120 South Detroit St., Xenia, OH   45385Saturday, August 22, 2009 from 9am-1pmReservations: 937-352-4095 or ohio@...

Fee: $15/person or 4 for $50.  Includes training materials and a continental breakfastRegistration closes on August 17.------------------------------------------------------------------------

Free Movie Screening for Milestones friends - Asperger's Romance Adam

Sponsored by Milestones Autism OrganizationTarget Audience:  Parents and ProfessionalsIndividuals with autism:  Teen and AdultsMilestones invites you to join us for a free screening of a Sundance award winning movie, ADAM on Tuesday Aug. 4th or Wednesday Aug. 12th. It is a love story about a lonely and brilliant young man with Asperger's, named Adam (Hugh Dancy), who develops an awkward relationship with his upstairs neighbor, the brainy and beautiful writer Beth (Rose Byrne). 

 Show details:Date 1: Tuesday, August 4th at 7:30pmLocation: Cleveland Cinemas Cedar Lee in Cleveland Heights Date 2: Wednesday, August 12th at 7:30pmLocation: Regal Crocker Park 16 in Westlake

 Call 216-464-7600 or email info@... to request free movie passes.  Contact name:  Carole Becerra. Tickets can be picked up from the Milestones office (23880 Commerce Park, #2, Beachwood, Ohio 44122) or mailed to you if time permits. Passes will be distributed on a first-come first-served basis. Seating is not guaranteed, and we recommend arriving early to the screening.

 Full Description: Romance can be risky, perplexing and filled with the perils of miscommunication - and that's if you aren't ADAM, for whom life itself is this way. In this heartfelt romantic comedy, Hugh Dancy stars as Adam, a handsome but intriguing young man who has all his life led a sheltered existence - until he meets his new neighbor, Beth (Rose Byrne), a beautiful, cosmopolitan young woman who pulls him into the outside world, with funny, touching and entirely unexpected results. Their implausible and enigmatic relationship reveals just how far two people from different realities can stretch in search of an extraordinary connection. Rated PG-13

ADAM opens in Cleveland on August 21, 2009.