AUGUST 2011 Disabilities Thread

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Click link below and visit, read, and request to join.

www.facebook.com/groups/210992165618542

The Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities abruptly decided to not fund the clinic at the TEAM Centers. With no money, TEAM had to begin the process of closing the clinic, which is slated to be shut August 12.

MANY parents and advocates have been making phone calls to Legislators and it appear to be having a huge affect. There also appears to be misinformation in the press and parents must educate themselves first before making calls or sending emails.

Please check out/join the group called KEEP TEAM CENTERS OPEN.

Parents created it for everyone. It has good facts about the TN budget and DIDD's role and so on. It's also a great place to post or read success stories about how TEAM has helped families. See all of the "Why We Fight" posts, and perhaps post your own story.

--
Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org

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Thousands of Chattanooga Children with Disabilities Losing Services As Funding Goes to More Expensive Government Run Centers

Chattanooga's TEAM Center is set to close next month and the news has taken hundreds of families by surprise. For years, TEAM has offered multi-discipline treatment, services and support for people of all ages living with developmental disabilities.

But this year, the state of Tennessee refused to renew an annual grant and now those families are facing a two hour drive to Knoxville for services. In response, those families are fighting to save TEAM and to find answers. They want to know why the state thinks it's okay to suddenly stop funding such critical treatment for thousands in Southeast Tennessee.

The $774,000 state grant TEAM requested would have served 2,700. Without TEAM, parents will have to drive to the East Tennessee Resource Center in Knoxville, which will get $4 million to serve 290 clients. That works out to nearly $13,000 per patient. However, the TEAM Center's multi-discipline approach costs taxpayers just $287 per client, per year. That makes no sense to Dave Burn, a volunteer at the Chattanooga Autism Center. To read more: mk1.netatlantic.com/t/11729600/8696096/108645/0/

Families across the state are joining together to save the Team Center.

To learn how to help visit: www.facebook.com/groups/210992165618542/
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Family Voices Seeks Part-Time Bilingual Parent/Family Consultant

The bilingual (Spanish) position is a part-time, 20-hour per week position geographically located in Middle Tennessee and will be filled by parent/family member related to a child with a diagnosis of deafness, hard-of-hearing, and/or other hearing-related condition.

The position is focused on increasing awareness in the Hispanic Community of newborn hearing screening, the need for hearing follow-up, location of sites to access hearing professionals, and the availability of early intervention and parent support programs. Supervision is provided by the Family Voices (FV) of Tennessee Director at the Tennessee Disability Coalition in collaboration with the State Newborn Hearing Screening Program Coordinator. To learn more about the position and how to apply visit our website: mk1.netatlantic.com/t/11729600/8696096/108646/0/
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Nashville Juvenile Justice Center Changes Violate Federal Disability Law

Nashville's taxpayers recently spent a lot of money to fix up a Metro building, but Monday the Channel 4 I-Team looked on as a disabled man tried unsuccessfully to even get in the front door. The lack of access for the disabled goes beyond inconvenience. It's in violation of federal law.

The Juvenile Justice Center was just recently renovated after suffering damage in the May flood. But the changes now make the facility tougher to access for people with disabilities, and advocates said unless changes are made soon, the city could see another lawsuit.

To read more and watch video from the site: mk1.netatlantic.com/t/11729600/8696096/108647/0/

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On behalf of all of the employees of TEAM Centers/ Chattanooga Autism Center, we'd like to thank you for the concern and support that we have received in the past few weeks. We truly appreciate your efforts.

We hope that the Chattanooga Autism Center will remain after TEAM's closing in a modified version of itself with the help of active parents and advocates. PACT meetings will continue to discuss the future of the group. At this time, meetings will continue in TEAM's space on E. Third St. at noon on the first and third Thursdays. EXCEPT in August when the Aug 4th meeting will be cancelled. PACT will meet on Thursday August 18th at noon.

The final monthly educational seminar at TEAM will be held on Monday August 1st from 6-8pm at the TEAM Centers office. We will be having a panel of experts on feeding and eating issues for people with developmental disabilities. The panel will be lead by Dr. Jaquess, the Director of the Marcus Autism Center's Pediatric Feeding Disorder Program, Ashley Johnson and Mary Jane Thomas both MCD, CCC-SLP's and Dr. Leslie Rubin. If you have any concerns or questions about your loved ones difficulty eating textures, color, temperature, variety or general aversions, tube feeding etc. please RSVP by calling 423-622-0500 ext 1149. See attached flyer for more information and be sure to let us know if you need childcare.

Just in time for Back to School! Tutoring available: Rose Acquavella, an adult with Asperger's, is offering tutoring in organizational skills, English, math, and/or French for students in grades 6-12. Cost is $15-$20/hour, depending on distance. Contact her at [e-mail] or 805-630-5643.

Save the Date: Friday November 11th 2011 for the Connections Conference at 1st Centenary United Methodist Church in Chattanooga. For families in need of resources and information regarding disabilities. See the attached flyer for more information.

Support/Social groups for ASD-

Night Owls at Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church. This program offers free of charge childcare for your special needs child and their siblings. The ratio of children to volunteers is 1:1. The program is the first Friday of every month. We also offer such events as Mom’s Morning Out. If you are interested please e-mail Betty: [e-mail]. Enjoy a night out!

Awesome Autism Support Group is sponsored by Siskin Center in Chattanooga and meets monthly. For more information, contact Jackie Benkert at: [phone]. Group meets the 4th Monday of the month, 7 p.m. at the Ronald McDonald House next door to Erlanger. On facebook as: AwesomeAutism-please join!
Family Share Support Group meets monthly for a meal. For more information and to RSVP, contact [e-mail] or [phone].

Social Group for Chattanooga Teens affected by Aspergers. Meets regularly, local parents have started this group. For information on next meeting, call [phone].
Greater Chattanooga Aspies (GCA) is a support & social group for adults with Asperger’s Syndrome/High functioning autism in the greater Chattanooga area. Regularly scheduled meetings will be the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6 – 8pm with a speaker the first hour and support group time the second hour. Their socials are monthly with TBD dates, times, & activities. For more information, contact Scott Kramer at: [e-mail] or go to: www.meetup.com/G-C-As

KNOXVILLE:
Fall Conference registration is now open! You can register via our website at: [e-mail] or by printing the attached registration form and mailing it in with your payment.
Details: ASA-ETC & Knox County Schools are partnering for our annual Education Conference in Knoxville, TN. Our nationally-known speaker is Rebecca Moyes (www.rebeccamoyes.com) . Rebecca will speak to the entire audience on “Addressing Social Skills Deficits with Evidenced-Based Strategies for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder” and “Addressing Challenging Behaviors of Children with ASD in the Inclusive Classroom”.
Breakout sessions include: “Practical Strategies: Using Social Stories and Comic Book Conversations to Address Social Deficits” by Rebecca Moyes, “Intervention Strategies Built Upon Connection and Collaboration” by Dr. Lois Prislovsky, Ph.D., of Psychoeducational Network, “Inside Autism” by Mary Johnson, A “PECS Share Group” by Knox County Schools instructors, an “Adult Aspie Panel Discussion” with local adult panel members and facilitated by Hope Paultre, CCC-SLP, and “Quirks & Perks: Finding Joy in the Journey” by Donna Cooper.
Please help us spread the word to schools, parents & local autism professionals.

MORRISTOWN:
Autism Orientation at Manley Baptist Church on Thursday September 1st 2011 from 6:30-8:30. Please see attached flyer for more information or to RSVP.

MARYVILLE
Autism orientation in Maryville (Blount County) on Thursday, August 25th at the Fairview United Methodist Church from 6:30-8:30 PM. See attached flyer for more details and to RSVP.

CLEVELAND:
Autism orientation session on Tuesday September 6th from 6:30-8:30pm at the Church at Grace Point. Please see attached flyer for more information and to RSVP.




Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org

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OK guys and gals, this is the homestretch for the TEAM Center and the thousands of children they serve. We need everyone's help in restoring the funding that was withdrawn but the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. I hope you are keeping up with latest on the Keep the Team Center Open Facebook Page. Link: www.facebook.com/groups/210992165618542/

There have been some of new discoveries regarding DIDD Commissioner Henry in the last 24 hours and it is all very disturbing information. We have to work hard these next few days contacting every person on the list below even if you have contacted them before...let them know we are not going away.

Please don't let any of these offices get by with referring you to the DIDD department...tell them you want answers from their department because the ones you have been getting from the folks at DIDD aren't satisfactory and are full of errors. Also, don't stop calling every member of the DIDD team listed at the bottom in pursuit of the truth.

The single most important thing you can do is push for the legislators to intervene immediately in restoring funding to TEAM Centers. After they close their doors on August 12th it will be too late. There are children who haven't even been born yet that are counting on you to make sure they have every opportunity at a productive life. Now get started!!

Trish Cox
Parent of an 11 year old with Asperger's and Team Center Patient




Governor Bill Haslam’s Office
[e-mail]
[phone]

Jeremy Harrell, Director of Constituent Services
[e-mail]
1st Floor, State Capitol
Nashville, TN, 37243
Primary [phone]


Rep. Richard Floyd, (Note More Active in TCCY than any other Rep. this is good)
[e-mail]
301 6th Avenue North
Suite G-24 War Memorial Building
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]

Rep. Gerald McCormick
[e-mail]
301 6th Avenue North
Suite 18-A Legislative Plaza
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]

Rep. Vince Dean
[e-mail]
301 6th Avenue North
Suite 107 War Memorial Building
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]

Rep. Joanne Favors
[e-mail]
301 6th Avenue North
Suite 35 Legislative Plaza
Nashville, TN. 37243
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Rep . Kevin Brooks (Bradley Co)
[e-mail]
301 6th Avenue North
Suite 104 War Memorial Building
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]

Rep. Jim Cobb (Rhea and Part of Ham. Co.)
[e-mail]
301 6th Avenue North
Suite 110 A War Memorial Building
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Sen. Bo Watson
[e-mail]
301 6th Avenue North
Suite13 Legislative Plaza
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]

Sen. Andy Berke
[e-mail]
301 6th Avenue North
Suite 310 War Memorial Bldg.
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]


Here is the contact info. for the DIDD which is the funding agency in question for the Team Center.


James Henry, Commissioner Dept. of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Email: [e-mail]
15th Floor Andrew Jackson Building
500 Deaderick Street
Nashville, TN, 37243
Primary [phone]
Primary Toll-free 800-535-9725
TTY Local [phone]
TTY Toll-free 866-249-0711
Fax [phone]
Missy Marshall, Director of Public Affairs/Legislative Liason
615-253-2236
615-532-9940 (Fax)
[e-mail]


Felicia Thompson, Executive Administrative Assistant
615-532-6533 (Phone)
615-253-4089 (Fax)
[e-mail]

Contact them, and then post verbatim what they told you on the Keep Team Center Open Facebook page so we have a record of it to share with our legislators. They are willing to displace 2,700 disabled member of our community with no reasonable notice.


--
Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org

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ETTAC needs toys for children with disabilities

It is Christmas toy preparation time in August at ETTAC. The East Tennessee Technology Access Center needs new, battery-operated toys to give to over 100 children with disabilities in 24 counties who cannot use their hands to play with typical toys. Donated toys will be rewired and connected to special switches for the children to press in order that they can play with the toy. Without these adapted toys, these children just get to watch others play with the toys they are given during the holidays. However, ETTAC’s volunteer ETechie elves need time to adapt toys before the holiday distribution party December 5th.

Please drop off toys at ETTAC’s Knoxville office at 116 Childress Street, just off Chapman Highway. ETTAC is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. For more information about ETTAC’s Toy Tech program, call [phone].

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Next Chapter Book Club Position Description

Title: Bilingual-English/Spanish Project Coordinator (Part-Time)
Agency: Memphis Center for Independent Living
Reports to: Project Director

Position Summary: The Memphis Center for Independent Living (MCIL) is a community-based not for profit organization whose primary mission is to facilitate the full integration of persons with disabilities into all aspects of community life.

The Next Chapter Book Club (NCBC) is community-based book clubs for adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities. The primary function of this program is to promote literacy learning, social connectedness, and community inclusion for book club members.

Qualifications:

Bilingual English & Spanish
Desire and commitment to work with adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities (previous experience is not necessary, but may be helpful)
Ability to travel
Enthusiasm, creativity, and good “people skills” are essential

Position Responsibilities:

· The Project Coordinator will monitor and support volunteer facilitators on a weekly basis.
· The Project Coordinator will visit each book club in order to ensure that the book club sites are providing adequate space and comfort for participants.
· The coordinator will monitor and assess the volunteer facilitators skills and abilities.
· When appropriate, the Project Coordinator will offer impromptu support and guidance to the volunteers.
· Quarterly meetings will provide the Project Coordinator and volunteer facilitators an opportunity to discuss any problems/issues that may arise in the individual book clubs and to address any problems with individual participants or volunteer facilitators that require additional training.
· The Project Coordinator will work closely with the Project Director to design project calendars that will be provided to all project staff and volunteer facilitators. Calendar information will include: tentative book club weekly meeting dates, dates for weekly mini-reports from volunteer coordinators via telephone, tentative dates for potluck lunches/dinners, a monthly council conference calls and due dates for quarterly and annual program evaluation reports. Calendar changes and updates will be the project coordinator's responsibility.
· Participate in a period of orientation and training
· Recruit diverse group of young adults from the community as facilitators
· Host information meetings where people can get information about the program
· Coordiante monthly correspondence to facilitators
· In consultation with the Project Director to establish and implement a system for measuring outcomes.
· Complete forms and documentation required within the timelines established
· Work a flexible schedule so that services are available to young adults based on their schedules
· Participate in agency staff meetings and trainings
· Seek out community resources and speakers for some book club meetings
· Report significant incidents or events to the Project Director immediately
· Maintain confidential files
· Participate in periodic supervision with the Project Director
· Develop appropriate relationships with young adults, team members and community at large
· Perform all other duties as assigned
· Display patience, compassion and understanding
· Have a love of reading
· Display management skills to facilitate small groups

Compliance requirement:

Background check
Reliable Transportation
Computer Skills
Car Insurance

Benefits:

Can Work >From Home
Flexible Schedule
Paid Time off
Mileage Reimbursement
Paid Holidays
Some Insurance Benefits

Please send resumes to Attn: Pamela Momon, 1633 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104 or fax to: [phone] or Email to: [e-mail] Last day to accept resume is August 10, 2011.

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Nashville Sounds - Entire Month of August!

ASMT is the featured charity for the Nashville Sounds during the month of August!!
The Sounds will donate $4 to ASMT for every ticket purchased during the month of August using the code word "autism." They have also created ASMT jerseys that the team will wear on August 13, which can then be purchased during a silent auction.
Click here for full details! r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=yogelrcab&et=1106789862498&s=1823&e=001knyBVd99iaqxz67n_-7TWs6kMrrlJ0kln_P9NBO4K72Sb_tk5tzEZVXXJP3A1fYJGqrscsSV7IV6SR1e6SPK8V4PuirSk1B1dzx_4gaGhdc8-oGZlCKg22XeKfQPuq1WNBsIIdCqccGVc5inI3_j4LjN8tlxRZigNHeOiJArLJOOv9TLJWChC-lckgm7jTVG74NdYvgVsjA=
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Recipes for Success: Ideas That Work! - Thursday, August 25, 2011/6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

ASMT families are rich sources of tips and problem-solving for each other. Do you have a saying that helps people to understand your child? Did you find a way to meet your child's sensory needs?

Jenny Redding will moderate this "Do It Yourself" workshop that highlights the expertise that exists within our community. Come to this "idea potluck" to sample contributions for and from families at any stage of autism. Tell us what you're "bringing" by registering at this website: r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=yogelrcab&et=1106789862498&s=1823&e=001knyBVd99iarkyIgcr-YhJ_gZppl5v0i3LmfEfqEzGYYusJzM6a-lu1tXq7u34Y4fz-opHJrvvMNmz78n0n2T09lf1qMv1Tqf5mcuckloyuoPuS2zz0lFOw==
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2011 Fall Conference - Finding Individual Pathways to Success
Thursday, September 22, 2011----REGISTRATION OPENING SOON!

This year, ASMT's Fall Conference will focus on approximately one hour break-out sessions designed to meet the individual needs of the attendees by allowing them to choose between presentations focused on one of three pathways: social, communication, and behavior (including sensory issues). We are accepting nominations for the 2011 Coston Education Award. Click here for more information: r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=yogelrcab&et=1106789862498&s=1823&e=001knyBVd99iaoKpINyebD3qUi3nSUAquM8SExMcv1RpbRNV8__x96_wgMAVRTTSbu2IESlwqdbOzEPYZ4NbuARjehgHSE-wLWYkCVZRXbwkzQkJYK90sdook2OrTQ2aZnxWwbHPofJFWvJ4te5bcVKxQ==
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Upcoming ASMT Events

Nashville Shores Family Fun Event: August 7 - Sunday
- Nashville Shores - 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Nashville Sounds - ASMT Jersey Game: August 13 - Saturday
- Greer Stadium - 6:35 p.m.

Workshop - Recipes for Success: Ideas That Work! August 25 - Thursday
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center - 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Autism Orientation: September 15 - Thursday
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center - 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Fall Conference - Finding Individual Pathways to Success: September 22 - Thursday
- Smyrna Church of Christ - 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

*SAVE THE DATE* Puzzlethon: October 8 - Saturday
- Belle Meade United Methodist Christ - 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Check out ASMT's Community Bulletin Board for other upcoming activities: r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=yogelrcab&et=1106789862498&s=1823&e=001knyBVd99iaqxz67n_-7TWsjl_2GH_TyxZD8V_TF0nMdf_fq_IyWLCtFBrDhKFFL1vcpQ6KEziM_3s7zTfLrrGJ9zHEtzRbkYxXqYB56Xop-QXxV8EgHq-tI1NmwvSx6Ur3I5g_uDhsYqWreRWw2O3wPfv9ZnNLWFM9j9nnJV4Wk5BPNtWSs5iv0hJKehLiOixF6NXOqOzPA=

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Statewide Autism Orientations

Aug. 13 - Saturday - Humboldt (Gibson Co.) - Higher Ground Assembly
1009 West Mitchell Street - 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Aug. 18 - Thursday - Somerville (Fayette Co.) - Methodist/Fayette Hospital
- 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Aug. 20 - Saturday - Henderson (Chester Co.)
- Southwest HRA Headstart - 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Aug. 25 - Thursday - Maryville (Blount Co.) - Fairview United Methodist
- 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Sept. 1 - Thursday - Morristown (Hamblen Co.)
- Manley Baptist Church - 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Sept. 6 - Tuesday - Cleveland (Bradley Co.)
- Church at Gracepoint - 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Sept. 6 - Tuesday - Kingsport (Sullivan Co.)
- Douglass Community Room (301 Louis St.) - 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

ASMT (Autism Society of Middle Tennessee
1-615-385-2077 or 1-866-508-4987
tnautism.org
[e-mail]

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The East Tennessee Technology Access Center just received a $15,075 grant to purchase an eye-gaze communication device that also has an environment control component to help people turn on the TV, radio and lights, etc. All this from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.

We average about 20 clients a year who have paralysis and communication disabilities, including spinal cord injuries, ALS, or brain stem strokes, who we think could benefit from this system. If you know anyone within our service area of 24 counties in East Tennessee who may wish to try it out, call ETTAC at [phone] and ask for Alice Wershing.

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The Business Case for Preventing and Reducing Restraint and Seclusion Use | SAMHSA

store.samhsa.gov/product/SMA11-4632

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released a report entitled The Business Case for Preventing and Reducing Restraint and Seclusion Use. While many studies support reducing restraint and seclusion for well-being reasons, this is purportedly the first study to demonstrate the cost-savings associated with prevention.

The report maintains that restraint and seclusion increase the cost of care and that other options should be used:

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Assistive Technology - Listen Up!

Classroom sound amplification systems can make a difference in academic performance as well as the number of referrals to special education programs. By Marty Weil - 08/01/11

There are many possible interventions that can occur when a child performs poorly in school, but one that can be easily overlooked is a hearing check. Yet a growing body of research indicates hearing loss--even a minimal amount--can have a dramatic effect on everything from attention and behavior to academic performance. At the same time, data indicates, and experts in the field believe, that the introduction of sound reinforcement and sound amplification systems can help with this problem.

Normal hearing for children is 15 decibel hearing level (dB HL) or better at all frequencies with normal middle ear function. Anything less can place a child at risk in the academic setting.

There are approximately 46 million K-12 students in the United States; more than 9 million--about 20 percent of them--have some type and degree of hearing loss. Based on the number of audiologists employed by school districts to manage students with hearing loss, less than 1 percent of these children with hearing problems are receiving professional help through their schools.

Of course, it's possible that not nearly all those students need professional help with their hearing loss. In fact, many times the loss is not even noticeable by most observers, and the same loss likely would not affect the behavior of adults. However, for a child trying to integrate new information, even "minimal" hearing loss can have a huge impact on learning.

"The issue that needs to be addressed is hearing clearly for effective teaching and learning," says David H. Parish, president and CEO of Woodbury, MN-based Calypso Systems, a manufacturer of integrated classroom products, including classroom acoustic systems. He stresses that children who have trouble hearing what is going on in the classroom may perform below standards both academically and behaviorally.

"Studies show that children who fail basic hearing tests have to repeat a grade at 10 times the rate of those who pass them," says Parish. "That statistic clearly demonstrates that the ability to hear--especially at younger ages when language skills are not as advanced or for those learning English as a second language--is critical for good academic outcomes."

MORE: thejournal.com/Articles/2011/08/01/Listen-Up.aspx?p=1

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'Serving All Kids, No Exceptions' - Posted: 03 Aug 2011 06:42 AM PDT

More than 30 years after passage of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act, schools are still working on including students with disabilities in all facets of public school. And in many places, they remain segregated for at least part of the day, says Wayne Sailor.

"This has been a major uphill battle," Mr. Sailor, a professor of special education at the University of Kansas, told a group gathered in Arlington, Va., this week during a conference hosted by the U.S. Department of Education's office of special education programs.

He is still fighting those battles because of his firm belief, based in research, that students with disabilities almost surely cannot be successfully educated "if these kids are not engaged with kids who don't have their needs."

For many years now, Mr. Sailor has been working with public schools in the District of Columbia and East Palo Alto, Calif., as well as Kansas City and New Orleans, on changing the fundamental culture of how students with disabilities, and really all students, are taught.

By combining response to intervention and positive behavioral interventions and supports and destroying any opportunity for a student with disabilities to be segregated from other students, along with a host of other measures, the professor told a crowd Tuesday, all students can benefit, and achieve.

He rejects what happens in many schools now, when working with students with disabilities. They are diagnosed, then treated, often in separate classrooms for at least part of the day.

"It's not what a kid is; it's what a kid needs," he said. "If there's one term I could leave you with today, it's 'instructional match.' "

He's so forceful on this point that he said when his strategies are employed at a school, the work begins with a map of the school that is used to determine every available space. No classroom or office or any other space is allowed to be set aside for special education students exclusively.

He has the results to prove his approach works: At White Church Elementary in Kansas City, for example, the percentage of all students who were proficient on a state reading test in 2000 was 40 percent. Ten years later, it's 90 percent, and at one point, this school with many low-income students and where about 9 percent of students have disabilities outperformed schools in which students came from wealthy backgrounds.

"The real power going on at this school was, it had a powerful culture," Sailor maintained. But the change took time. Parent involvement and engagement is a critical piece of his approach, called "SAM," or Schoolwide Applications Model. He said districts looking for a magic bullet to improving outcomes for students with disabilities often hear his approach and say, "Don't call us; we'll call you."

SAM entails even providing services like speech or physical therapy in a group setting, where general education and special education students are mixed together. At some of the schools in D.C., he said speech therapists teach lessons that are part of the curriculum, helping students with and without a specified need for therapy. It may be preventive for students who are on the cusp of needing help, and the students who need therapy are reached as well.

It means that some of the therapists are volunteering their time to make this happen, working beyond the hours they are paid. That's a logistical issue that is due in part to the way most of special education works: based on hours or the amount of services a specific child must receive, he said. Some students' individualized education programs may even specify that they must receive their therapy in a separate setting, something he'd like to see changed.

"We really need to have more flexibility," he said.

At SAM schools, all students take part in the same physical education classes, with students who don't need adaptive equipment using it anyway.

"General education kids like all those gadgets, along with the child that really needs it," he said.

Fully changing a school culture and integrating instruction for all students, as well as getting parents involved and engaged, may take years, he said. But it works.

"We're for serving all the kids, no exceptions."

feedproxy.google.com/~r/OnSpecialEducation/~3/VFPOwCngWmM/professor_wayne_sailor_remembe.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email

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OKAY!! YOU'VE BEEN SAVING THE DATE! NOW, HERE ARE THE DETAILS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO HEAR FRESH INSIGHTS ON ASPERGER SYNDROME. Links:

1. us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=6059fcdf9f968032363687147&id=bb3157dfa6&e=cbc3b5f777

NASHVILLE'S BEST KEPT SECRET, DR. CHARLES IHRIG, PHD WILL BE PRESENTING OUR
FIRST MINI CONFERENCE FOR THE SEASON! HE WILL PRESENT ON THE FOUR PERSONALITY TYPES WITHIN ASPERGER SYNDROME HE WILL ALSO SPEAK TO THE IMPLICATION FOR THE NEW DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA, WITHIN THE DSM-V.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 18 - 6:15-8:30

C4U offices at 120 Holiday Court, suite 4 (on the left of the building). There is a limited number of seats (35) for this event. The cost is $35 per person, and $15 for persons on the Spectrum.

NO RESERVATIONS! NO REFUNDS! ALL OF THIS IS DUE TO THE LIMITED SEATING. WE
DON'T WANT ANYONE LEFT OUT!

YOU MUST PAY IN ADVANCE VIA CHECK OR MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO THE CENTER FOR
UNDERSTANDING. MARK IN THE MEMO "FOUR TYPES CONF" & ALL CHECKS NEEDS TO BE POSTMARKED August 12th, 2011.

SEE YOU THERE!

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You Are Invited: Tennessee Disability Pathfinder, Autism Society of America East TN Chapter (ASA-ETC), & ETSU’S Families & Siblings United would like to invite YOU to our next Community Education Series featuring Advocacy Services

What: The following organizations will share important information about the advocacy services that they provide:

· Autism Society of America East TN Chapter (ASA-ETC)
· East Tennessee State University
· Tennessee Disability Pathfinder
· Disability Law & Advocacy Center of TN
· Tennessee Voices for Children
· Arc Washington County

When: Tuesday, August 23, 2011 - 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Where: Boone’s Creek Christian Church
305 Christian Church Road
Gray, TN

Cost: Free

RSVP: Please register online at www.kc.vanderbilt.edu/registration

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email.

If you have any questions, please contact Megan Hart at [phone] or [e-mail]

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Please see the information in the attached documents. If interested and you have questions, please see the contact info for Monica Bodick below. Resumes should be sent to: [e-mail]

"The helpdesk salary is going to $28,000 and we’ll need at least a certificate degree. As I mentioned, anyone interested can email their resume to [e-mail] – which is the one in the attachment - or they can email it to me directly."

sz0141.ev.mail.comcast.net/service/home/~/Help%20Desk%20Analyst%20Nashville%2C%20TN.pdf?auth=co&loc=en_US&id=277121&part=2

sz0141.ev.mail.comcast.net/service/home/~/Copy%20of%20Bender%20Consulting%20Services%20-%20Apply%20for%20Federal%20Employment.pdf?auth=co&loc=en_US&id=277121&part=4



Monica Bodick
Bender Consulting Services
Direct: 412-428-7942
Office: 412-787-8567
Fax: [phone]
[e-mail]
www.benderconsult.com

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Disability Awareness Night featuring DSAMT at the Nashville Sounds! Friday, August 12, 7:05pm

Join MassMutual SpecialCare, Capital Financial Group and Exceptional Parent Magazing for Disability Awareness Night with the Nashville Sounds! The evening will feature a special service award given to DSAMT, with special guests from DSAMT throwing the first pitch of the night! See the Nashville Sounds play the Las Vegas 51s and stay for the spectacular FIREWORKS show after the game! Tickets are available in the reserved section for only $10. To purchase tickets in the reserved section, contact Amy Hosking at [e-mail]
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DSAMT Family Picnic - Saturday, August 13, 10am-1pm

Join us for our annual Family Picnic, THIS SATURDAY, August 13 from 10am - 1pm! We'll be celebrating the start of the school year with free games, barbecue and drinks for DSAMT friends and families. ***Bonus Fun*** An information table will be set up so that you can learn all about the upcoming 2011 Buddy Walk! Event committee members will be available to help answer questions about the event, help you start a new team, or learn how to use the site at Firstgiving.com. Attendance is FREE, but please RSVP. Call 615.386.9002 or email [e-mail]. Be sure to include the number of children over age 2 and the number of adults in your group. At Elmington Park, near the playground at the top of the hill. 3531 West End Avenue. in Nashville. *Please note* There is not a rain location for this event. If there are light showers on the day of the event, we will still have the picnic. If there are thunderstorms in the forcast, we will update our guests via our facebook and Twitter pages in case of cancellation. Hope to see you there!
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Challenger Soccer League - Registration Ends August 11!

White House Special Needs Athletic Programs presents Challenger Soccer! This program is for any boy or girl ages 4 - 18 that faces a mental or physical challenge. Registration for residents is $30 and $42 for non-residents. This fee includes a full uniform. Practices will start in August and Saturday games begin in September. For more information please contact White House Parks and Recreation at 672-4350 ext 2114. Remember, registration ends Thursday, August 11!
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Next Chapter Book Club - Tuesday, August 16, 7pm

Next Chapter Book Club has begun meeting again with an all new book, Mr. Popper's Penguins. This is a great time to start meeting with the group if you have been thinking about joining. NCBC is a group of you adults with intellectual disabilities who meet one evening per week for an hour to read aloud together from a book of their choice. The group is moderated by Beth and Lauren, who are both siblings of young adults with Down syndrome. The group meets at the Starbucks Cafe inside Target on Whitebridge Road at 7pm each Tuesday.
Advance registration is not required but is appreciated for planning purposes. Feel free to call Beth at 615.386.9002 or email [e-mail] for more information. We hope to see you there!
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Circle of Friends - Saturday, August 27, 9am-2pm

Individuals ages 12 and up who have Down syndrome or other developmental disabilities are invited to join us for a new year Circle of Friends, a monthy meeting for fellowship, games, service projects, and fun activities. Circle of Friends participants enjoy Tae Kwon Do, art projects and more, while making friends and giving their caregivers some time to relax. The group meets from 9am to 2pm. Participants should bring a sack lunch and a $10 registration fee. Space is limited. Advance registration is required by no later than Thursday before a meeting. Please call DSAMT at 615.386.9002 for registration or more information.
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Transition Webinar Series Social Security Administration and Transition Community Employment for Everyone - August 24, 11am -1pm

Presenters: Ellen Condon and Norciva Shumpert Register: tacesoutheast.org/webinars/2011/082411/index.php

Are you concerned that your son or daughter has too significant a disability to work? Are you concerned that if they go to work and earn a paycheck they will lose their social security and Medicaid? This session will share stories about young adults with various disabilities working in their communities. Information will also be shared about the impact of a paycheck on SSI and SSDI, state and individual Medicaid thresholds for earnings and social security work incentives that encourage people to try out work without fear of losing their benefits. This session targets families.
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Down Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee • 111 North Wilson Blvd. • Nashville, TN 37205 www.dsamt.org

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U.S. Education Secretary says TN schools should set bar high - By sgeorge
Created 08/10/2011 - 3:35pm

During a morale-boosting visit to Nashville Wednesday, U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan challenged Tennessee’s schools to become the fastest-improving in the nation.

“Tennessee is well below the national average in just about every indicator, so there are many states that are higher performing,” Duncan said at West End Middle School. “That is a reality. But this state is one of a handful that might be uniquely positioned to be one of the fastest improvers, so that has got to be the aspiration here.”

During a panel discussion with Duncan, Gov. Bill Haslam called the wide gap in Tennessee between the achievement scores for white and black students “immoral.”

“In Tennessee, we are really committed to closing that achievement gap between white students and students of color,” the governor told reporters later. “We know that to move the needle in education, we have to address those issues. I really want to be a part of any conversation in Tennessee that starts and ends with, how do we help children learn more.”

Duncan added: “This work is tough. It is challenging. Nothing is easy about it. There’s a reason why these gaps haven’t closed. There’s a reason why education has been so slow to improve. But I am very hopeful that Tennessee could possibly become the fastest-improving state in the country. If Tennessee can do that, the implications not just for the children here but for the nation are profound.”

This week, the Obama administration announced it will waive the requirements of the No Child Left Behind law for qualifying states because Congress has failed to overhaul the program.

Duncan said the law's benchmarks are unrealistic and brand schools as failures even if they make progress. Haslam already has asked Duncan for a waiver to let the state replace No Child Left Behind standards with ones the state has set for itself. Duncan said he expects Tennessee to qualify for a waiver.

“We’re still working through what the final waiver package will look at,” Duncan said. “But we think it’s important that states have high standards. We’re not going to play ball with a state that’s reducing standards. I have no interest in doing that. We want to work with states that are doing interesting things around teacher and principal evaluation and effectiveness. Tennessee is doing a great job there. … I have every reason to be hopeful about Tennessee’s submission.”

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All, see below for a message about a great orientation. Also great for family members and caregivers besides the parents of people with autism. Sincerely, Dave Buck

Hello! There will be an autism orientation that will be held by the Autsim Society of America here in Cleveland, TN. We would like to send a warm invite to anyone interesting in learning
more about autism, especially parents with newly-diagnosed children.

In this FREE orientation, you will learn about:
• The characteristics of autism spectrum disorders (ASD)
• How ASD affects behavior
• Implications for learning and interventions
• A parent’s perspective on intervention and family support services
in your community

When:Tuesday, September 6th - 6:30-8:30 PM

Where: The Church at Grace Point, 2575 Old Freewill Road, Cleveland, TN 37312

This event is FREE. Enrollment is limited; reservations are required. Childcare is available with 48 hours advance notice. All community members are welcome. Please register with the Autism Society of Middle Tennessee at [phone], ext. 1 or www.tnautism.org

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Free Event…Over $200 of free health screenings…Free Breakfast to the first 100 women…Mammograms…Door prizes…Music…Dance…Books…Food…~ and much more ~

WHEN: Saturday, August 27 , 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

WHERE: LEAD ACADEMY, 1704 Heiman Street, Nashville, TN 37208

NOTE that ST. Thomas Health & Susan G. Komen for the cure Greater Nashville Mobile Mammography screenings will be available. To qualify you must not have had a screening mammogram within the last year, not be experiencing any breast problems, have no health insurance and have financial need. No appointment necessary-First come, first served.

Thanks to our sponsors: The Memorial Foundation & St. George’s Episcopal Church

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Freedom Co-op is an agency that provides personal care attendants for people with disabilities. Our employees support our individuals in their daily activities while their families work. We have a full time job opening with a family.

Qualifications:
Must be 18 years old
Must have a high school diploma
Must have or be willing to get CPR/First Aid certified
Must pass a fingerprint/background check
Must have computer skills
Must have a valid driver license
Must have a good working car
Valid car insurance
Must be willing to drive the individual around in the community in your car


Applications will be taken by appointments ONLY

For more information and set up an appointment to fill out an application please contact:

Suzanne Colsey
Freedom Co-op Executive Director
901/603/5864 cell
[e-mail]

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Greetings from the Tennessee Health Care Campaign!


We are currently searching for a part-time licensed social worker to help us fulfill the direct service mission of our work. Please see the job description below and help us spread the word to anyone you know who may be interested in joining our team!


Who We Are:
THCC is a non-profit patient advocacy organization with a 22-year history of working toward affordable access to high-quality health care for all Tennesseans. We are staff, volunteers, supporters and coalition partners working together toward practical solutions to the problems in our health care system.


What We Do:
Our strategy is three-fold:
1. Direct Service - we provide assistance to help people in need find health care coverage or safety-net medical services
2. Public Education and Community Outreach - we provide education and information about state and federal health care policy through public presentations, media work and training.
3. Advocacy - we help empower individuals, families and caregivers to participate in policy decisions about health care that affect them and we work with policymakers, legislators and state agencies to advocate on behalf of Tennessee patients.


What We are Looking For:
Tennessee Health Care Campaign is searching for a part-time licensed social worker to help us fulfill the direct service mission of our work. THCC is a non-profit patient advocacy organization with a 22-year history of working toward affordable access to high-quality health care for all Tennesseans. We are looking for a medical social worker who understands (or is willing to learn) current public health care programs, safety-net services and policy changes under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in order to provide direct assistance to uninsured or medically-underserved individuals. The ideal candidate will have a passion for helping people, strong communication skills and a desire to work with a dedicated team of advocates. Position is 20-hours, flexible. For more information: www.thcc2.org/Resources/Archives/job_postings.html

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New Brain Imaging Research Reveals Why Individuals with Autism Confuse Pronouns

Autism is a mysterious developmental disease because it often leaves complex abilities intact while impairing seemingly elementary ones. For example, it is well documented that children with autism often have difficulty correctly using pronouns, sometimes referring to themselves as "you" instead of "I." Read more…http://support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=xiwN6Rc0tFVYUV_MRrkmbA..

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Free 'virtual school' casts statewide web

Written by Chas Sisk | The Tennessean

4:47 AM, Aug. 15, 2011|

www.tennessean.com/fdcp/?unique=1313414688657

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NADD 28th Annual Conference & Exhibit Show- Building Partnerships for Successful Service Systems: “You Got to Have Friends” (ID/MH)

November 2-4, 2011
Loews Vanderbilt Hotel,
Nashville, Tennessee

PRE-CONFERENCES- WEDNESDAY, NOV 2, 2011
PRE-CONFERENCE I

The NADD Standards for Quality Services Program: ID-MH

Donna Nagy-McNelis, PhD, Moderator, Drexel University College Of Medicine
Director, Behavioral Healthcare Education, Philadelphia, PA, NADD Board President

· Daniel Baker, PhD, Boggs Center, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, UMDNJ, New Brunswick, NJ – NADD Board Member-- CLINICAL

· Kathleen Olson, PhD, Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities
Parsons, KS- DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL (DSP)

· John McGonigle, PhD, WPIC/UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA-ACCREDITATION
_____________________________________________________________________
PRE-CONFERENCE II

Health Care Reform and its Impact on People with a Dual Diagnosis

Terry McNelis, MPA, NHS Human Services, Erdenheim, PA, NADD Board Member
_____________________________________________________________________

PRE-CONFERENCE III

Overview of DM-ID: Proper Diagnosis including Case Illustrations

· Robert J. Fletcher, DSW, ACSW, NADD CEO, Kingston, NY

· Clif Tennison, Jr. MD, VP and CCO, Helen Ross McNabb Center Knoxville, TN

· Brian Bonfardin, MD Psychiatric Associates, Johnson City, TN

PRE-CONFERENCE IV

Side effects with Psychoactive Medications

· Laurie Charlot, PhD, UMass Medical School, Worcester, MA

_________________________________________________________________
PRE-CONFERENCE V

Across System Sexuality Issues in Persons with Developmental Disorders

Shelley Watson, PhD, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada
· Debbie Richards, BA, Community Living Welland Pelham, Welland, ON, Canada

· Nancy Miodrag, MA, PhD Candidate, Mcgill University, Montreal, ON, Canada

· Dorothy Griffiths, PhD, Social Sciences- Brock University, St Catherines, ON, Canada

PRE-CONFERENCE VI

Serving Persons with Prader -Willi: An Interagency Community Partnership

Elizabeth Roof, Vanderbilt Kennedy University Center, Nashville, TN
Clayton R. Cea MS, Behavioral Services of Tennessee, Inc., Cordova, TN
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
KEYNOTE ADDRESSES

PLENARY, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011

The Future Outlook of Service System Integration to Support Persons with Co-Occurring Disorders - Elisabeth Dykens, PhD, Vanderbilt Kennedy University Center, Nashville, TN

PLENARY, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2011

The Concerns with Self Injurious Behaviors in People with Intellectual Disability

James Harris, MD, John Hopkins Children’s Center, Baltimore, MD

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Lifecare Family Services Job Coach Position Available
Job Description/Requirements:

A Job Coach serves as a coach who works as a provider for those clients designated in need of continuous, part time or occasional support during the assessment, pre-placement process, job placement or employment. The Job Coach will be part of a mental health treatment team and will serve the program participant in our offices, in the community and on the job site as part of the client’s individualized employment program. The Job Coach will help train the consumer/employee and help him/her to maintain employment. The Job Coach will sometimes act as an intermediary between the employer and the consumer. The Job Coach may also assist in job development activities helping to identify possible jobs for the consumer . This is a part time on call (PRN) position.

When job coaching, the Job Coach will be available to work the same days and hours as the consumer.
The Job Coach will complete all written reports, including daily job coach reports, within 24 hours of service.
Establish good job coach skills that include but are not limited to: assessment, establishing consumer's strengths, weaknesses, crisis intervention, stabilization skill building, advocacy regarding employment situation.
Required to be flexible and available in the event of a crisis or emergency.
Attend all trainings and general staff meetings, as well as team meetings as needed.
Comply with all Lifecare Family Services policies and procedures.
Teach or assist in the training of jobs search skills and other classes on an individual or group basis.
Comply with the federal confidentiality law, HIPPA regulations, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation regulations and policies in all other applicable regulations to protect the rights of the consumer.
Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
High School Diploma or GED.
Experience working with and/or sensitivity towards individuals with mental illness and other disabilities.
Must have reliable transportation and ability to transport clients when needed.
Ability to use word processing-mail and Internet on a PC.
*Preferred Qualification: Tennessee Peer Support Specialist Certification

Please email a resume and cover letter to:
Ross Winetsky, [e-mail]
------------------------------------------------------------
Lifecare Family Services
Employment Specialist

Part-time position in the Nashville area
Job Description/Requirements

An Employment Specialist works as a provider for those clients designated in need of job search assistance, assisting in pre-placement activities, mentoring and coaching the consumer on their job site. The Employment Specialist will be part of a mental health treatment team and will serve the program participants in our offices, in the community, and on the job site as part of the consumer’s Individual Employment Program. The Employment Specialist will market our consumers and our programs to all types of employers and may act as an intermediary once the consumer is hired. The Employment Specialist will write resumes, complete paper and online job applications, promote job seekers to employers and provide other vocational services both on the telephone and in-person. This position will also work with consumers to help them develop realistic vocational goals. The Employment Specialist will need to exhibit flexibility in their schedule.

REQUIREMENTS
Good Computer Skills
A positive attitude, with some sales experience
Some knowledge of mental health and other disabilities
The ability to follow through with employers.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Reliable transportation with the ability to transport consumers
The ability to write resumes, cover letters and reports in a professional and timely manner

PREFERRED SKILLS
College Degree
Tennessee State Peer Support Specialist Certification

Please email a resume and cover letter to:
Ross Winetsky, [e-mail]

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Achieve with us Contest Finalists Announced

The Arc wrapped up its Achieve with us Contest with the selection of 10 finalists from 119 entries highlighting stories of achievement from people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Over the past month, we have tallied more than 25,000 votes on Facebook and we’re ready to choose the grand prize winner from the top 10 vote-getters to win a trip to Washington, D.C. to share their story.

In June and July, we encouraged anyone with an intellectual or developmental disability to share their story on our Facebook fan page. One of the finalists is from Tennessee! Please check out the Arc's website or facebook page and read about these amazing people.

The Arc 1660 L Street, NW, Suite 301, Washington, DC 20036
Phone: [phone] | Contact Us

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SEPT 24, 2011 – REGISTRATION IS OPEN!!-- ASA-ETC & Knox County Schools
are partnering for our annual Education Conference at the Sara Simpson
Development & Training Center, 801 Tipon Ave., Knoxville, TN, 37920.

This conference is for parents, teachers and professionals – there is
something for everyone!! Our main speaker is Rebecca Moyes
(www.rebeccamoyes.com). Her topics are: “Addressing Social Skills
Deficits with Evidenced-Based Strategies for Children with Autism
Spectrum Disorder” and “Addressing Challenging Behaviors of Children
with ASD in the Inclusive Classroom”.

Breakout sessions are: “Practical Strategies: Using Social Stories and
Comic Book Conversations to Address Social Deficits” by Rebecca Moyes,
“Intervention Strategies Built Upon Connection and Collaboration” by
Dr. Lois Prislovsky, Ph.D., of PEN, “Inside Autism” by Mary Johnson, A
“PECS Share Group” by Knox County Schools instructors, an “Adult Aspie
Panel Discussion” with local adult panel members and Hope Paultre,
CCC-SLP, and “Quirks & Perks: Finding Joy in the Journey” by Donna
Cooper.

REGISTRATION: You can register online using PayPal at: www.asaetc.org

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Notice --- Meeting for parents in Hamilton County; opportunity to meet school district’s new consultant

WHEN: Wednesday, August 24, 2011, 6:30-7:30pm

WHERE: the John Ross Room within the Hamilton County Department of Education (HCDE) annex at 1161 West 40th St., Chattanooga, TN 37409. Margaret Abernathy told me that we can park in back of the annex. She emailed, “Go in the back door. You will be on the first floor. There is an elevator to the right, or you can take the stairs to the left; the stairs lead to the John Ross Room.” This room is apparently also called The Teacher’s Place.

WHAT: This is a meeting for parents with children that need autism-related services in Hamilton County public schools....This is an opportunity to meet representatives of Autism Consortium, the new external autism consultant for Hamilton County public schools.

WHY: As you may have heard, early this year the school district (HCDE) dumped Autism Partnership as its consultant, and hired Autism Consortium to replace it. Autism Consortium is a part of the Mailman Segal Center for Human Development, which is on the main campus of Nova Southeastern University (NSU) in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. NSU’s Autism Consortium is directed by Susan Kabot, who co-authored the book, “Setting up Classroom Spaces That Support Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders,” which was published in 2010 by AAPC Publishing. Two of Susan Kabot’s associates from NSU, Tara Sheehan and Katie Leach, will be making the presentation Wednesday evening. This will be a rare opportunity for parents to meet with them, as HCDE plans to usually hire Autism Consortium to train teachers only, not meet with parents, nor even to see children. I'm sure we all have lots of questions for them. My hope is that they will also explain the new special-ed curriculum that HCDE has chosen, called Unique Learning System.

HOW to learn more: Here are some links I found that helped me to learn a bit about Autism Consortium and Unique Learning System:

www.nova.edu/spotlights/suekabot.html
www.nova.edu/humandevelopment/autism/index.html
www.nova.edu/humandevelopment/autism/autism_consortium/index.html
www.uniquelearningsystem.com
www.n2y.com/about/companies.aspx (company that produces Unique Learning System)
www.autism-society.org/about-us/board-advisors/panel-professional-advisors.html (scroll down to bio about Susan Kabot)

Please tell other interested parents if they are not on the CAC distribution list, as I do not think this meeting has been thoroughly advertised. Hope to see lots of you at the meeting this Wednesday at 6:30!

---Joseph Newton
[e-mail]
CAC Parent Mentoring Committee

Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org

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Our friends at the Chattanooga Down Syndrome Society are hosting their 11th annual Buddy Walk at Riverview Park, 1000 Barton Avenue, 37405 on October 8th, 2011 to celebrate those with Down syndrome.


The organizations who work with the CAC often like to work with the CDSS and may be interested in exhibiting at this walk. Please see attached exhibitor application and consider exhibiting if you are interested!

--
Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org

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Boy and His Mom Fight Rare Disease and Inspire Gift

Darian Jones’ body began to shut down when he was 2. The little boy was developing at a normal pace — starting to walk and piece a few words into sentences. Then, one day, he fell and couldn’t get up. His mother rushed him to the emergency room, but doctors sent her home after X-rays revealed nothing.

Now 4, Darian is in a wheelchair. He can’t speak, and he eats through a feeding tube. His lungs show signs of weakness, making his doctors worry that his condition — which remains nameless — soon could become fatal. Unidentified, serious disorders are more common in children than most people realize, say doctors, who work with each other locally and through national consortia to try to match names and diseases and decide on treatment.

“It’s the scariest and the hardest thing to go through as a parent,” said Lakesha Welch, 25, of Madison, Darian’s mother. “My biggest fear is that Darian will die, and I won’t know what caused it.” To read more about Darian, his family and medical mysteries.

tndisability.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=088ba7579477f44de53c5eded&id=e94466aa61&e=2876e3927c