MAY 2012 Disabilities Thread

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Where disabilities become possibilities

EAST TENNESSEE TECHNOLOGY ACCESS CENTER, INC.
116 Childress Street • Knoxville, TN 37920
[phone] • FAX [phone] • [e-mail] • www.discoveret.org/ettac

Public Service Announcement
Date: May 2, 2012
To: Community Calendar
From: Louise McKown---Public Awareness Coordinator
Re: ETTAC hosts two summer camps

The East Tennessee Technology Access Center will host two summer camps for children and teens with and without disabilities in June and July. June 18 to June 22 camp session from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. is for children from ages four to twelve years old. It will feature music, art and motion incorporating educational concepts. The cost for this is $20 with family discounts, and scholarships are available. Registration is required by June 8th.

July 23 to 27’s camp is geared for high school youth who will work in teams with mentors to create useful or artistic products for people with disabilities out of recycled materials. Points will be given for accessibility, creativity and teamwork. Cash prizes will be awarded at the end of the week. Cost is $50, with scholarships available. Please register by July 13th.

Space is limited for both workshops. Please call [phone]. For more information about how assistive technology can help people with disabilities lead more independent, productive lives, visit ETTAC’s website: www.discoveret.org/ettac.

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A video about a great guy! See how Luke has risen above his disabilities and is living independently in his community:

vimeo.com/40412225

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Join the Conversation

You're invited to a facilitated discussion on developing a coordinated system of care for children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

We recognize that you are a key stakeholder and need your input.

This Community Conversation is an important step in the development of a statewide Autism Plan.

We'll start with dinner, and are offering a childcare stipend to enable family members to attend. RSVP required.

May 22nd 6:30-8:30pm
Baptist Hospital Corporate Office
350 N. Humphreys Blvd, Memphis, TN 38120

For more information,
email: [e-mail]
call: 615-383-9442
online at: www.tndisability.org/autism

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"FREE HEARING & SPEECH SCREENING"

Do you ask people to repeat themselves? Can you hear telephone callers clearly?

The Tennessee Regulatory Authority is hosting Free hearing and speech screenings in conjunction with Technology Access Center (TAC), Telecommunication Devices Access Program (TDAP) and DynaVox Technologies.

Audiologists and speech language pathologists will be conducting the screenings for local TN residents.

Contact TDAP:

Tennessee Regulatory Authority
460 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243
1-800-342-8359 ext. 179
[e-mail]
www.tn.gov/tra

Contact Dynavox:

Mary Eadie M.A. CCC/SLP, ATP
Mobile: [phone]
Office 800-344-1778 ext. 5934
[e-mail]

When: May 9th, 2012
Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Where: Technology Access Center (TAC)
475 Metroplex Drive
Suite 301
Nashville, TN 37211

For directions click here or call 615-248-6733: e2.ma/click/96g9/9ejk3/188dk

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Chattanooga Parks & Recreation, Therapeutic Recreation Services | 1254 East Third Street | Chattanooga | TN | 37404

What's going on in the month of May?

CHIPS golf program: Join us out on the course this Spring for a round of golf! Participants must be able to play nine holes independently. *Must register 3 days before scheduled date

When: 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22 and 5/29
Where: Brown Acres Golf Course
Time: 5:30pm-dusk
Cost: $5 each date
Contact: Elaine at 423-697-1345 or [e-mail] ______________________________________________________
Autism Community Conference

The Chattanooga Autism Center, in partnership with the Autism Society of America East TN Chapter, will host its 3rd annual conference for parents and professionals on Friday, May 4th, 2011 from 8am to 4:50pm at theChattanooga Convention Center.
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Dance Fever - RESCHEDULED

Thursday, May 17th from 6-7
South Chattanooga Recreation Center

This dance program is designed specifically for adults with cognitive and intellectual disabilities over the age of 25. We will be learning new dances and grooving to the old ones! PLEASE RSVP to Jessie at 643-5716 or [e-mail]
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SPRING PROM - Come and wish upon a star, at this magical evening!

Friday, May 18
6:30-8:30om
Heritage House (Heritage Park, 1248 Jenkins Road, 37421)
Tickets are $5 (may be purchased at the event. Caregivers are FREE)

RSVP required, contact Jessie at 643-5716 or [e-mail]
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Chillin' Like Villains - Yeeehaww! It's a Barn Dance at the Chattanooga Zoo! Wear your boots and come ready to party western style. We're havin' a bar-b-que shindig!

Wednesday, May 23rd
6:30-8:30 pm
at the barn in the back of the Zoo.

MUST RSVP by 5/17 to Jessie at 643-5716 or [e-mail].
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Gymnastics Program at The Little Gym - Come and be a part of our newest program!

The Little Gym in East Brainerd has teamed up with Therapeutic Recreation Services to provide a class for children with disabilities and their siblings!

These classes will be held in sessions of 5 classes, every other Friday (5/11 and 5/25...potentially more dates to come!) The cost is $5 per child, per class.

Times: 4-5pm Parent/Child class (up to age 3)
5-6pm Ages 4-10 and their siblings.

Contact Elaine at 697-1345 or [e-mail]
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Scenic City Adaptive Cycling

Come and be a part of this awesome biking expericence! Hand cycles and tandem bikes are available for individuals who have physical and visual disabilities. Three wheeled bikes and additional bikes are available as well! Bring the whole family!

Monday, 5/14 at the Tennessee Riverpark, 6pm-dusk

Co-sponsored by SPARC (Sports, Arts, and Recreation of Chattanooga) and Outdoor Chattanooga. Pre-Registration is REQUIRED

Contact Elaine at 697-1345 or [e-mail]
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Hiking - What a beautiful time of year to enjoy the outdoors! This month's hike is planned for Enterprise South Nature Trail located at 8015 Volkswagen Drive, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 Beginning at 6pm.

Please RSVP to Jessie at 643-5716 or [e-mail] also if you have any questions.
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**CXC Game Day: 5/14 from 11-1pm at the Shepherd Recreation Center

**CXC Spring Fling: 5/31 from 11-1pm at the Riverpark! Cookout with agencies, music, games, good times!

**CXC: Mission: To promote, help foster, and facilitate meaningful day opportunities for people with a variety of disabilities. Community Explorers Committee (CXC) is an organization dedicated to providing meaningful opportunities for individuals who have various disabilities. Our areas of focus include, but are not limited to physical activities, community discoveries, and employment education. The members of CXC are representatives from Chattanooga area agencies that serve individuals who have disabilities
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Camp ZooAbility - There are still some spots available for for wk 1 and wk 3, so hurry and get those applications in!

Week 1: ages 13-21, June 11-15
Week 3: ages 22 and Up, July 30-August 3
For additional information, please contact: Elaine at 423-697-1345 or [e-mail]
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What's Going on NEXT Month? (go ahead, mark your calendars and RSVP!)

Dream Night at the Zoo - It's time for a free night at the Zoo! This is in honor of individuals in the Chattanooga Community who have disabilites and/or terminal illnesses, and their families.
Time: 5:30-8:30
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Chillin' Like Villains-June Event - The Chillin' Crew is having a Summer Bash!
When: Thursday, June 7th
Where: Elk's Lodge
Time: 6:30-8:30pm
Fun, Entertainment, Hot Dogs!!
Please RSVP to Jessie (643-5716 or [e-mail] ) by 5/29 so we know how many Hot Dogs to cook! Big thanks to Cynthia Howser for putting this on!
**Chillin' Like Villains is a young adult social group for individuals who have various disabilities. We meet once a month at different locations around town, and do a variety of activities such as attend sporting events, potluck dinners, movies and much more.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

ASA-ETC ANNOUNCEMENT!! We have been working on a way to make our Email Updates more user-friendly AND build a new website...and we are thrilled to announce that the two have been combined!!! Our new website (not complete yet) can be found at: www.asaetc.org . Feel free to browse, BUT MAKE SURE TO FIND OUR "Calendar" Page!!! This tool has been built specifically to house all of the great workshops, community events, support groups and family fun all over East TN that is hosted by ASA-ETC and other organizations who send us their events to post. Not only is the information separated by date, but also by category and then can be filtered by "Tags" to sort events by community area (Knoxville, Tri Cities, Chattanooga, etc). NOTE: only April events are complete so far, BUT SEE WHAT YOU THINK!!!

Autism Awareness ANNOUNCEMENT!! Guess what??!! There is a new Autism License Plate available for TN!!! Details, order form, and FAQ's can be found at: licenseplate.tnautism.org/ . Check it out...awesome design...pre-order yours today!

CDC Releases New Rates of Autism - This week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that autism rates continue to skyrocket in the United States, with one in 88 children now being diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. The new rate is up from 1 in 110, and is a 23% increase from 2006 - 2008. The figures are even higher for boys, with 1 in 54 8-year-olds now counted on the spectrum.

Scott Badesch, President and Chief Operating Officer of the national office of the Autism Society, said "The increasing rate of autism incidences should serve as an urgent call to action to address the most critical issue facing individuals with autism and their families right now: lack of access to affordable and appropriate services. The various behaviors and characteristics associated with autism are treatable, however, people are not receiving critical services due to a variety of factors, for reasons including cost, location, waiting lists, insurance coverage and more. " Full statement posted at www.autism-society.org.

LOCAL RESOURCES & ITEMS OF INTEREST

From the Tennessee Respite Coalition: "Regional Respite Voucher Program - This program has been established to assist families with the cost of respite services. Families must have children from birth to age 18 years who have a serious emotional disturbance or a developmental disability. Available statewide, excluding Shelby County which has the Memphis Respite Voucher Program, this respite subsidy program is run through the TN Respite Coalition, a statewide respite networking advocacy body. Funding enables families who are eligible for this program to pay for respite services, under Policies and Procedures developed by the Tennessee Respite Coalition. Regional respite entities handle referrals for this respite subsidy. The Tennessee Respite Coalition is a statewide respite advocacy and networking organization, which advocates for increased access to and availability of lifespan respite services in Tennessee. Contact the coordinator at: 1-888-579-3754 or www.tnrespite.org -----------------------------


Disability Law & Advocacy Center of Tennessee (DLAC) is seeking community input to establish their areas of work for next year. DLAC is the federally mandated Protection & Advocacy system for Tennessee and provides free advocacy and legal services to protect the rights of Tennesseans with disabilities. Please take 5-10 minutes to complete the survey. This information, along with that collected in focus groups and information gathering sessions, is critical as they develop future areas of work that directly respond to needs identified. If you have a newsletter or website, please consider sharing this link there as well. You can access the survey at: www.surveymonkey.com/s/9HST926 Thanks! Francisca Guzman at: [e-mail]
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Play me a Riddle Putt-Putt Fundraiser - iPad giveaway

When: May 19th, 1pm to 11pm
Where: Scenic City Mini Golf: 21 East 7th Street, Chattanooga TN 37402
Cost: $5 per person, Prefer you buy a ticket in advance
Cynthia Joyner is raising funds and buy iPads for area families who have a child with autism!

Email [e-mail] to purchase or to ask her details about her event
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CABIA (Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association)

Hello All: I hope your spring has started off to be wonderful! Here is this month's Support Group Activities. Please note the change in date for the downtown group!!!

For Downtown: Tuesday, May 8th- LOOKOUTS GAME- Game time 7:15 p.m.-

The game last month was cancelled due to the weather. Luckily, the Lookouts let us change our tickets to this date for this month.

Please call Lisa at 634-1572 to let her know if you plan on going even if you had reservations last time. We want to make sure we have enough tickets for everyone. Thank you to those who have already told me that they cannot go this time that had reservations back in February. If you did not have reservations last month but would like to go to this game, you are welcome to make a reservation. Please call or email: [e-mail]

For Cleveland: Monday, May 21- 6 p.m. (More details to come regarding topic/speaker)

Hope you have a great month. Call or email if you have any questions.

Thanks,

Lisa J. Morgan, CTRS
Service Coordinator
Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association
One Siskin Plaza
Chattanooga, TN 37403
[phone] phone
[phone] cell
[phone] fax
www.cabiatn.org
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Spotlight on....JASON ROGERS!

Imagine riding a bike 180 miles from Charlotte, N.C., to North Myrtle Beach, S.C., in THREE DAYS! This is what a group of extraordinatry cyclists set out to do each spring.

Cycle to the Sea is a unique ride that raises funds and awareness for the Adaptive Sports and Adventures Program (ASAP). This bike ride is held every spring and involves athletes who cycle on handcycles and/or tandem bikes.

WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU, JASON!

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Kennedy: Student with autism wins $500,000 Gates academic scholarship

www.timesfreepress.com/news/2012/may/06/when-things-seem-worst-you-must-not-quit/?entertainment

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2012 TN Disability MegaConference: The 2012 TN Disability MegaConference will be held May 31 – June 1, 2012. This is following Memorial Day Monday. This event will be at the Nashville Airport Marriott again this year.

For more information, visit www.tndisabilitymegaconference.org. The presenters, which include John McKnight, who came to speak to the DD Network in February, and Erik Carter, who spoke at our March Council meeting, are listed here.
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Submit a Video for "Employment Idol": A Fan–voted Employment Success Story Video Contest!

Submit a 1 to 5 minute video of an Employment Success Story featuring a Tennessean with a disability at www.youtube.com/user/TNEmploymentIdol by midnight, May 29, 2012. With the employee’s permission, videos can be created and uploaded by anyone who knows the employee. Visit www.tndisabilitymegaconference.org for instructions.

Anyone can vote at YouTube www.youtube.com/user/TNEmploymentIdol. Contest screening on Thursday, May 31st at 10:30 am at the TN Disability MegaConference. Online and 'studio' audience votes will be tallied and the top 3 videos will receive prizes.

For questions and details, contact [e-mail], 615-936-0448.
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Sports 4 All Training during MegaConference: One of the Council’s recent demonstration projects, Project HEALTH through Sports 4 All, is offering a two-day Project HEALTH Instructor Certification workshop in conjunction with the MegaConference on Friday and Saturday, June 1-2. It will prepare attendees to pass exams to receive certification to lead Project HEALTH classes. Participants must have First Aid/CPR Certification. The cost is $350.
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Breaking Ground Arts Issue: Do you write short stories or poetry? Do you paint, draw or take pictures? Then we’d like to see your work for possible publication! The Council invites you to contribute to our Special annual issue of Breaking Ground devoted to the arts.

THE EDITOR WILL CONSIDER:

• fiction, up to 1,000 words, and poems, whether traditional or modern.
• photos and all other forms of artwork.

Content is devoted to materials by or about persons with disabilities. We’ll give contributors a prominent by-line, a biographical note and copies of the issue. Please include your name, complete contact information and a two- or three-sentence biography with your submission.
Send your submissions to:

Ned Andrew Solomon
Managing Editor, Breaking Ground
Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities,
Parkway Towers, Suite 130
404 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, Tennessee 37243-0228
[e-mail]
Questions? Call 615-532-6556. ALL ENTRIES MUST BE SUBMITTED BY JUNE 15, 2012.
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Employment First State Leadership grant: The Office of Disability Employment Policy recently awarded Tennessee a grant through the Employment First State Leadership Mentor Program, which allows states with comprehensive Employment First policies to mentor other states as they begin to implement policies and programs towards making employment the first and preferred option for people with disabilities receiving state services. Tennessee, along with 3 other states, received a grant to be “protégé states” and learn more about how to begin to implement Employment First policies. Julie Huber of DIDD will be speaking at next week’s Council meeting about this new and exciting opportunity for Tennessee to increase the employment of individuals with disabilities.

Congratulations to DIDD for receiving this grant and thanks to Julie Huber for all of her hard work on applying for this opportunity!
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Disability Law & Advocacy Center Annual Report: The Council’s DD Network partners, the Disability Law & Advocacy Center of TN, have published their 2011 annual report. It can be viewed at dlactn.org/. Please read and learn about the great work that DLAC has done in the past year to protect and promote the rights of Tennesseans with disabilities.
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TN Autism Plan: The TN Disability Coalition is leading efforts to develop “The Tennessee Autism Plan,” which is “working towards a comprehensive, coordinated system of health care and related services for TN children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders and related Developmental Disabilities.” This summer, the partners developing the plan will be hosting seven different “Community Conversations” across the state.

A meeting in Memphis is already scheduled for May 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Baptist Hospital Corporate Office at 350 N. Humphreys Blvd 38120.

For more information about the Community Conversation planned for your area, contact [e-mail]. We will keep you notified of dates and locations of upcoming Community Conversations.
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Public Hearings: Reminder: there are several upcoming opportunities for you to share your feedback with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services and TennCare on several proposed policy changes, plans and proposals.

May 7 – Nashville; Goodwill Industries, 937 Herman St. at 5 p.m. CDT
May 8 – Jackson; Jackson Center for Independent Living, 1981 Hollywood Drive at 5 p.m. CDT
May 9 – Memphis; Memphis Center for Independent Living, 1633 Madison Avenue at 5 p.m. CDT
May 16 – Chattanooga; State Office Building Auditorium, 550 McCallie Ave. at 5 p.m. EDT

VR: Submit written comments to:

Division of Rehabilitation Services
Attention to: Samuel E. Cole
Citizens Plaza State Office Building, 10th Floor
400 Deaderick St. Nashville, TN 37243

For more information, you can contact:

[phone]; TTY [phone] or Long Distance 1-800-270-1349 or Email: [e-mail]
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TennCare PLUS proposal: TennCare has a proposal for a new program to integrate care for “full benefit dual eligibles,” those who are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare. You can learn more and review an overview of the proposal and the full document here.

May 8 - 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. CDT, Room 16 of Legislative Plaza, 301 6th Ave. N., Nashville.

TennCare changes to the CHOICES program: TennCare will be accepting comments regarding upcoming changes to the Nursing Facility Level of Care requirements for entry into CHOICES, TennCare's program of long-term services and supports for individuals who are elderly or physically disabled. These changes, which will be applied only to new applicants for CHOICES, are designed to target Nursing Facility services to persons with higher acuity of need, while simultaneously making Home and Community Based Services more broadly available.

May 7 - 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. CDT, Bordeaux Branch of the Nashville Public Library, 4000 Clarksville Pike, Nashville

Individuals with disabilities who wish to participate in any TennCare hearings and who may require aid to do so should contact Helen Moore by email or by calling [phone].

Submit written comments to: You can submit comments or ask questions about the hearings or the draft proposal to Susie Baird by email at [e-mail] or by calling [phone].
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New Administration on Community Living: As many of you may already know, a couple of weeks ago a new federal agency called the Administration for Community Living was created within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The new entity will join together three existing bodies — the Administration on Developmental Disabilities (where Councils on Developmental Disabilities are located), the Office on Disability and the Administration on Aging — under one umbrella to serve seniors and those with disabilities. All offices maintain their individual missions, but join in pursuing public policy goals and cross-cutting initiatives for citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities and senior citizens. For more information, visit www.hhs.gov/acl/.
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Dept. of Justice Says Sheltered Workshops May Violate ADA: In our April monthly update, we included an excerpt of an article from Disability Rights Oregon, the Protection and Advocacy agency of Oregon, about how “advocates for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities filed a class action lawsuit in January challenging Oregon’s failure to provide supported employment services to more than 2,300 state residents who are segregated in sheltered workshops.”

“The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court, charges state officials with violating the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act by confining individuals with disabilities to segregated settings where they have little – if any – interaction with non-disabled peers. Moreover, they are paid far below the state’s minimum wage of $8.80 for doing rote tasks that offer no training, no skills, and no advancement,” (see whole article here).

However, the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice has filed a statement of interest in Oregon District Court in support of the plaintiffs, in response to the state’s efforts to dismiss the case. The brief makes it clear that the Dept. of Justice interprets the integration mandate of Title II of the ADA to apply to the unnecessary placement of people with disabilities in segregated sheltered workshops. This is a significant development and we will keep you updated about this case, as it has the potential to influence the state of employment of people with disabilities across the country.
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Upcoming Events (by region) - *Note: If you have an event for the next few months that you’d like us to add to our next monthly update, please email details to Mildred at [e-mail].

Statewide: “2012 Revolutionary Leaders of Our Time” Webinar Series

This webinar series features multiple modern revolutionary leaders in the disability field. All of the presenters have donated their services. All proceeds from this series go to support the Tennessee Association of Microboards and Cooperatives, Inc. For more information, to view speakers or to register, visit 2012revolutionaryleaders.eventbrite.com/

What: Live video webinar seminars by revolutionary leaders
When: Every Wednesday through June 30
Dates: May 9, 16, 23, 30, June 6, 13, 20
Time: 1-2:30 Eastern, 12-1:30 Central

TN Disability Megaconference – May 31-June 1
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East

May 12 – Open Doors TN Disability Health Fair. For more information, click here.

May 15 –ETTAC; Enrichment Series Workshop: Accessible Recreation Options - An opportunity for people with disabilities and families to explore a wide variety of accessible recreational options in East Tennessee. Al Kaye, a recreational therapist will lead the discussion. Registration by Monday, May 14th is required. For more information, visit www.discoveret.org/ettac or contact Louise McKown at 865-219-0130.
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Middle

*May 7-11 – Goodwill Career Solutions week: Goodwill of Middle TN will offer a wide variety of job fairs and job preparation workshops all across Middle TN. Visit www.giveit2goodwill.org for a complete list of events and locations.

May 12 – 7 a.m.; Easter Seals Youth Fishing Tournament for children and youth with disabilities. For more information, visit www.eastersealstn.com or contact Gay Bruner at 615-292-6640 ext. 147 - [e-mail]

May 17 – Autism Orientation at Vanderbilt Kennedy Center; A two-hour informational session on autism and other pervasive developmental disorders conducted by an autism specialist and a parent of a child with autism. Sponsored by the Autism Society of Middle TN; for more information, visit www.tnautism.org

May 18 - Next Steps at Vanderbilt Open House. Meet current Next Steps at Vanderbilt students and staff and learn about classes, internships, social opportunities, and more. 2-4 p.m.

May 19 – Transition Institute and Information Fair at Coffee County Central High School; sponsored by STEP. A full day of quality transition information will be available for students, parents, teachers, and service providers. For more information, visit www.tnstep.org or call 1-800-280-7837.
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West

May 12 - Rolling for Independence hosted by the Memphis Center for Independent Living; This fundraising event will highlight new bike lanes - MCIL was instrumental in helping with design, public hearings and advocacy efforts for this addition to the neighborhood. For more information, contact Sandi Klink at 901-726-6404 or visit www.mcil.org/mcil/calendar.asp

May 18 - Brain Injury Education Conference, Memphis TN; call for details: 901-545-8487

May 19 – Memphis City Schools Exceptional Children Parent Summit; 8:30am-2:00 pm at Colonial Middle School, 4778 Sea Isle, Memphis TN. For more information, contact Annette Vaughan at 901-416-0161.

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DSM-5 Draft Criteria Open for Final Public Comment

For the next six weeks, you have the opportunity to submit comments on the draft fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). According to the American Psychiatric Association, this commenting period marks the third and final time DSM-5 draft criteria will be available for your feedback. Following this period the draft proposals will be available for online viewing until DSM-5’s publication. Visit the APA online to learn more…

support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=h6hU6sS9t7bNahXrO6XEcA

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New “What is Autism” Brochure Available Online

The Autism Society’s introductory brochure provides basic information about the autism spectrum, including the critical early signs, as well as background on the Autism Society and its mission. Read the brochure on our resource materials page.

support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=_aEHi6uNVNNz5Z43GjK3OQ

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Autism Journeys: Keisha

I am the mother of Ibrahim. Ibrahim is the third of my four children. He was diagnosed with autism at 2-and-a-half years old. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=OLSKGLlLc_vnnh-Z0Xcv5A

Share Your Story on YouTalk Autism

By sharing your story, you are showing other individuals affected by autism that they are not alone in their experiences. This is also an opportunity for us to elevate the general public’s understanding of autism. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=LENrtvKbHH3Y-q8ZO2V6Xw

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Researchers at Hebrew University Identify Genetic Systems Disrupted in Brain of Individual with Autism

Autism has a strong genetic basis, but so far efforts to identify the responsible genes have had mixed results. The reason for this is that autism is influenced by many different genes, and different genes are involved in different individuals, making it hard to find the common genetic ground. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=IoYB0XCHpWgw5XbWr_9iMg

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Gardening for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Special Education Needs

A garden or nature setting presents the perfect opportunity for children with autism spectrum disorders and special needs to learn, play and strengthen their body and mind. Read more…

support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=o7t6PM2BrMKGMTIg8N1kVg

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New Virtual Reality Study and Book Series Help Advance Educational Opportunities for Children with Autism

UC Davis autism researcher and education specialist Peter Mundy has received a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to apply virtual-reality technology to evaluate social attention and its relation to academic achievement among school children with autism. Read more...

support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=7m7TchdHWRPHWvAWFtdCsg

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Hello community!

The Council on Developmental Disabilities is seeking content for its 2012 Breaking Ground Arts Issue.

We are looking for fiction and poetry (up to 1,000 words), photographs and all other types of artwork.
All writing and art submissions must be by a person with a disability, or have disability as its theme.

Please submit entries electronically to [e-mail] , or send entries to the address listed below, to the attention of me, Ned Andrew Solomon.

We are also seeking ideas for articles about unique arts programming throughout the state, which is particularly inclusive of persons with disabilities. Ideas about articles that feature individual artists with disabilities are appropriate as well.

The deadline for artwork submissions, and completed articles, is June 15.

I am looking forward to receiving your creative ideas and work!

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at [e-mail] , or at 615.532.6556.

Gratefully,

Ned Andrew Solomon
Director, Partners in Policymaking
Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities
404 James Robertson Parkway
Suite 130
Nashville, TN 37243-0228
615.532.6556
[e-mail]

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STAR NIGHT 2012: Saturday, August 25th, 2012 - Chattanooga Convention Center

Golden Jubilee: Celebrate the 50th year of StarNight with headliner Josh Turner on stage!

Help Siskin Children's Institute support children with special needs and their families

The 50th anniversary of StarNight is an event you do not want to miss! Join us for an unforgettable evening with multi-platinum singer-songwriter Josh Turner as he helps Chattanooga celebrate this very special StarNight—our Golden Jubilee!

With the June 12 release of his fifth studio album, Punching Bag, and his first single from that album, "Time is Love," climbing the country charts, Turner already has numerous hits to his credit. Songs like "Your Man," "Would You Go With Me," "Why Don't We Just Dance," and "All Over Me" are #1 singles for this country crooner from Hannah, S.C. Turner is a committed family man known for his Southern charm and solid songwriting talents. But it's his voice that makes this star such a treasure to today's country audiences. His rich, stand-out baritone is a pitch-perfect blend of old school country meets contemporary sound.

The added benefit of this gala event? You'll be helping raise money for a worthy cause—the children and families served by Siskin Children's Institute.

In 1962 Institute co-founders brothers Mose and Garrison Siskin launched a premier concert event that featured beloved and talented stars of that era like Tony Bennett, Dinah Shore, Connie Francis and Jim Nabors.

Join us to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of StarNight and be a part of a tradition that has benefitted countless children and families during its 50 year history.


You can feel good about supporting StarNight 2012! Find out why! e2.ma/click/rurkc/bucci/3fg7q

Learn more about purchasing StarNight tickets.
e2.ma/click/rurkc/bucci/j8g7q

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ETTAC needs durable medical equipment



Do you have a wheelchair, shower seat or transfer bench you no longer need? The East Tennessee Technology Access Center’s ReUse program recycles durable medical equipment to people with disabilities who cannot afford to pay for an item or the insurance co-pay. Waiting lists of people needing shower seats, transfer benches and wheelchairs, especially very large wheelchairs, continue to grow. ETTAC is also accepting heavy duty rolling walkers.



If you can donate any of these items, please call [phone]. Ask to speak to Jeff Drum. He prefers to have donations delivered to ETTAC’s Knoxville office, 116 Childress Street from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The East Tennessee Technology Access Center is a nonprofit agency is based in Knoxville, but serves people with disabilities in 24 counties of East Tennessee.

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www.comptroller.tn.gov/OREA/PublicationDetails.aspx?ReportKey=0bfeac83-7faa-418b-a07f-43137ecd83f8





This is the third report in a series on Autism Spectrum Disorders by the Offices of Research and Education Accountability. The first report, Autism in Tennessee: Part 1 –An Introduction to Issues and Data Collection Methods was released in October 2009. Part 1 includes an overview of autism as a disability, including associated laws, and a review of autism data collection and prevalence estimates. The second report, Autism in Tennessee: Part 2 – Education, was released in December 2010. It includes an overview of the special education process and associated laws, and includes approaches being taken by Tennessee and other states to prepare teachers and school staff to educate children with autism. This report covers issues related to state and federal health-related programs and laws that intersect with the state and federal special education programs in Tennessee. These include federal laws, funding mechanisms, and treatments.

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VSA Tennessee's annual Art Institute is open for registration.





CONTACT: Lori Kissinger, Executive Director

[phone] / [e-mail]

www.vsatn.org



ART INSTITUTE FOCUSES ON THE RIVER CULTURE THROUGH NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ARTISTS



The VSA Art Institute is a summer arts camp for children with and without disabilities



The 10th annual VSA Tennessee Art Institute will take place July 16-20 at Volunteer State Community College and feature nationally recognized artists who will work with children in grades 3-8 using dance, drama, music, literature and visual arts to introduce them to elements surrounding the river culture. The participants will learn about the blues on the Mississippi River to Native Americans and Appalachian stories that traveled down the Tennessee River.



Teaching artists will include individuals such as Les Kerr teaching music. Less is a long-time member of the Blues Foundation and Tennessee Jazz & Blues Society who has a repertoire of river songs. He is a music teaching artist with the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Dr. Deanne Collins will focus on dance. She has traveled throughout the United States as a Movement Specialist with the National Endowment for the Arts, Wolf-Trap and the Kennedy Center. Annie Tagg will serve as the visual arts instructor. She served as an advertising director for an international sporting goods company and Art Director for Kenny Rogers. She is a professional artist with a Masters Degree in Education. Debbie Watts will work in the area of literature and drama. She has published many books, written for television game shows, is a “Ghostwriter to the Starts” and is an English teacher. A special treat will come from a guest appearance by Nick Nixon who won best gospel album in 1998 and the Keeping the Blues Alive (KBA) Award from the Blues Foundation, which is the highest award given in the field of blues education.



“The Art Institute is a unique opportunity for young people in Sumner County to work with nationally known artists in learning about a specific culture. We are excited to focus on the river culture in 2012 since the rivers that run through Tennessee are its lifeblood that has shaped who we are as a people,” states Lori Kissinger, Executive Director of VSA Tennessee.



Registration for the Art Institute is $30 for the week. Scholarships are available for those who cannot afford the $30. Information on registering for this program can be received from VSA Tennessee at [e-mail] or [phone]. The program is supported by the Tennessee Arts Commission.

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Greetings,

We are seeking input on the programming and structure of future Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Workshops. You have received this email because of your participation in previous AAC workshops and/or because of your interests and profession. Please take just a moment to complete the survey found at the link below. Your insights will shape the directions of future training opportunities in this area.

You may open the survey in your web browser by clicking the link below:
Future Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Workshop - redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=b9g6c5

If the link above does not work, try copying the link below into your web browser:
redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=b9g6c5

Thank you,

AAC Workshop Planning Committee

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If you are a student with a disability in middle or high school and you want to know as much as you can to have a successful life after high school; information about getting a job, going to college, living on your own, and how to speak up for yourself – you won’t want to miss this FREE event at Coffee County Central High School in Manchester, TN on Saturday, May 19, 2012.

If you are the parent or family member of a middle of high school student with a disability and you want to know as much as you can to help them be successful and have a full life after high school, register today for this Transition Institute and Information Fair in beautiful Manchester.

If you are a teacher and provide information and services to families and students who are 14 or older, this is the event to attend to fill your toolbox with great ideas on helping your students plan for their future after high school!

See the attached flyer and registration form and make plans to attend this FREE event. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Many statewide and local agencies will have information booths set up throughout the day and be available to answer you questions.

One student will win an iPad generously donated by the First Tennessee Foundation

Please register today and bring someone with you! Register today at conta.cc/zxOgHy or call 1-800-280-7837

What? Transition Institute and Information Fair
Where? Coffee County Central High, 100 Red Raider Dr, Manchester, TN 37355
When? Saturday, May 19, 2012, 8 am – 3 pm
Cost? Free!!

Breakfast & Lunch will be free, too, if you register in advance! Questions? Call STEP 1-800-280-7837

If you are a service provider for youth and young adults with disabilities and would like to set up an information booth at this Transition Institute and Information Fair, please follow this link: conta.cc/zxOgHy and register for an exhibitor table. We will provide your lunch and the booth is free unless you are selling a product! Help us get the word to as many families and students in the area as we can.

Coming from out of town? Manchester is in Coffee County and an easy drive on I-24 from Nashville and Chattanooga and all parts in between.

We hope to see you there!

Karen S. Harrison
Executive Director
STEP, Inc.
www.tnstep.org
Phone: [phone] ext. 11
Fax: [phone]
712 Professional Plaza Drive Greeneville, TN 37745

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www.comptroller.tn.gov/OREA/PublicationDetails.aspx?ReportKey=0bfeac83-7faa-418b-a07f-43137ecd83f8

This is the third report in a series on Autism Spectrum Disorders by the Offices of Research and Education Accountability. The first report, Autism in Tennessee: Part 1 –An Introduction to Issues and Data Collection Methods was released in October 2009. Part 1 includes an overview of autism as a disability, including associated laws, and a review of autism data collection and prevalence estimates. The second report, Autism in Tennessee: Part 2 – Education, was released in December 2010. It includes an overview of the special education process and associated laws, and includes approaches being taken by Tennessee and other states to prepare teachers and school staff to educate children with autism. This report covers issues related to state and federal health-related programs and laws that intersect with the state and federal special education programs in Tennessee. These include federal laws, funding mechanisms, and treatments.

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Greetings,

We are seeking input on the programming and structure of future Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Workshops. You have received this email because of your participation in previous AAC workshops and/or because of your interests and profession. Please take just a moment to complete the survey found at the link below. Your insights will shape the directions of future training opportunities in this area.

You may open the survey in your web browser by clicking the link below:
Future Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Workshop
redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=b9g6c5

If the link above does not work, try copying the link below into your web browser:
redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=b9g6c5
redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=b9g6c5

Thank you,

AAC Workshop Planning Committee

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TN System of Care for Those Affected by ASD

A series of seven Community Conversations will bring together families, providers, professionals, funders and policymakers to talk about developing a comprehensive, coordinated system of care for children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

This the critical next step in the Tennessee Autism Plan. Project Coordinator, Cory Bradfield with the Tennessee Disability Coalition, is also excited to gather input from parents and families through a survey coming soon. Cory will be working with the Coalition's Family Voices of TN, a network of families and friends speaking on behalf of children with special health care needs, to keep the focus on a community-based and family-centered system of care for children and youth with ASD. The TN Autism Plan is looking at challenges and opportunities presented by the current state of ASD services.

Interested in participating? for more information email: [e-mail] and go online to: www.tndisability.org/autism

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The Tennessee Disability Coalition has received a federal "state-planning grant" for improving services to children and youth with ASD in Tennessee. The Tennessee Autism Plan is working towards a comprehensive, coordinated system of health care and related services for Tennessee children and youth with autism spectrum disorders and related developmental disabilities.

This survey allows you to share the kinds of services your child has received, how satisifed you are with those services and some of the services your child and family still need. This is vital information to the planning team.

The survey will take about 25-35 minutes to complete, depending on how many services your child has received.

I do not know if there is a deadline for the survey to be completed, but I would encourage you to take it sooner rather than later. If you know of other families who might be interested and willing to complete this, please feel free to forward my email to them.


redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=MogITG

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Teaching for all levels — in one class By Michael Alison Chandler, Published: May 15

In Elise Carter’s second-grade class, some students still write their numbers backward or look at their fingers to add. Others race through multiplication tables or search the Web to teach themselves about negative numbers.

She does her best to challenge all of them, dividing her class at Galway Elementary School in Silver Spring into thirds and customizing a series of rotating lessons for the students. Each group takes a turn at the teacher’s table at the sound of a little brass bell.

Experts call it differentiated instruction — in essence, adapting lessons for kids of different abilities within a classroom. Teachers have always had to juggle disparate student needs. But pressure is rising to do it more often and with better results.

The practice of “tracking” students — isolating the high, average or low performers in different classrooms — is falling out of favor. Inclusion is in. Schools are expected to push all students to graduate ready for college. At the same time, new teacher evaluations being developed in many states and ever-higher testing goals make it even more critical to meet the needs of every student — those who speak limited English, those with special needs, those way behind and those far advanced.

“Each year, it seems like the expectations and the demands get a little bit higher,” Carter said.

The 27-year-old teacher arrives at school each day two hours early. Before the opening bell, she prepares three math lessons and five reading lessons for her 19 students. Some of her readers are still sounding out basic words while others are analyzing themes in chapter books. Eleven are learning English as a second language.

Last year, Carter sent her more-advanced students down the hall to learn third-grade math. This year, in a switch that reflects a new Montgomery curriculum, all of her students stay together.

The shift in math instruction in Maryland’s largest school system is the latest example of a move toward more mixed-ability classes that is mirrored in Fairfax and Arlington counties and across the country, with greater inclusion of special education students, more open enrollment in Advanced Placement classes and the elimination of some honors-level courses.

It’s all part of an effort to lift the performance of all students and overturn a legacy of sorting children into perceived ability tracks that often divided along racial lines. But some parents wonder if it is really possible to meet everyone’s needs in one room, or if their kids will get lost in the shuffle.

“With a single teacher dividing her time, I don’t know how it’s benefiting the kids who are struggling or the ones who are ready to move along,” said Alice Caponiti, who is concerned that her child, a second-grader at Sequoyah Elementary School in Derwood, is not being challenged.

Montgomery’s curriculum, which reflects new national academic standards and is being taught this year in kindergarten and first and second grades, represents an about-face for a school system that in 2010 accelerated nearly half its fifth-graders into above-grade-level math classes.

The school system’s new approach aims to teach for depth, not speed, while keeping students on grade level.

Like most teaching, differentiating is a mix of art and science.

When it works, “it’s like a jazz rhythm,” said Carol Tomlinson, an education professor at the University of Virginia and an expert on differentiation. Ideally, students come together around ideas and then break apart to go deeper or get extra support.

To be successful, the practice requires a lot of planning, teachers collaboration, monitoring of student progress, assessing, grouping and regrouping students. The goal is to provide material that’s challenging enough, but not too challenging, to keep each child interested.

Varied techniques

Carter started her 90-minute math session one morning this month with a lesson on three-digit subtraction. Then she divided her students, based on their performance on a brief quiz the day before.----MORE:

www.washingtonpost.com/local/education/teaching-for-all-levels--in-one-class/2012/05/15/gIQAv1lUSU_print.html

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Department of Education Issues ‘15 Principles’

A Good Step Forward, but Not Enough to Ensure Protection

Towson, MD

Dear Members –

On Tuesday the US DOE issued a 45 page “Resource document”on the use of restraint and seclusion. COPAA is pleased that the Department took a clear stance that restraint and seclusion are dangerous, have no evidence base demonstrating effectiveness in reducing problem or challenging behaviors that frequently precipitate the use of such techniques., and should never be used unless absolutely necessary to protect a child or others from imminent danger of serious physical harm. COPAA is pleased with the emphasis on planning only for prevention; in cases where a student has a history of dangerous behavior for which restraint or seclusion was considered or used, a school should have a plan for: (1) teaching and supporting more appropriate behavior; and (2) determining positive methods to prevent behavioral escalations that have previously resulted in the use of restraint or seclusion. The acknowledgement that staff may not use mechanical and chemical restraint, or restraints that impair breathing, and emphasis on immediate notification to parents if restraint or seclusion are imposed are all critically important.

“Our children have a right to go to school without being harmed by those entrusted with their education,” said Missy Alexander, Chair of the COPAA Board. “We appreciate Secretary Duncan’s promotion of the overarching goal of ensuring that schools are safe and healthy environments where all students can learn, develop and participate in instructional programs that promote high levels of academic achievement.”

For more than a decade, the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Inc. (COPAA) has protected the rights of students with disabilities and demonstrated commitment to ensuring that children with disabilities receive the same high-quality education as all children. COPAA has voiced concern over the improper use of restraints, seclusion and aversive interventions in our nation’s schools. We have reported extensively on the abuse of such interventions and been alarmed by the tragic results, including death, that have resulted from these acts.

The US DOE document outlines Fifteen Principles that are, in a large part, consistent with the Declaration of Principles that articulates COPAA’s policy position for which we have been staunchly advocating since 2008.

However, the principles are, as a Department staff articulated, only “thoughtful encouragement; “will not be disseminated directly to schools; and stop short of what the Department could have done on the matter. COPAA’s Principles differ from the Department’s Resource Document in two significant ways:

· COPAA calls for the complete elimination of locked seclusion in schools. Given the evidence of extreme danger and harm and the lack of efficacy, COPAA urges policy that clarifies that a child should never be locked alone in a room, closet, box, or other place from which the child cannot exit.

· ·COPAA continues to urge clear standards that prohibit restraint in all but the following conditions under which restraint may be imposed: The student’s actions pose a clear, present and imminent danger of serious bodily injury to himself/herself or to others; (b) Less restrictive measures have not effectively de-escalated the risk of injury; (c) The restraint should only last as long as necessary to resolve the actual risk of danger or harm; (d) The degree of force applied may not exceed what is necessary to protect the student or other persons from imminent bodily injury.

While this document may be a step forward, we must go much farther in protecting our children, reducing the use of restraint, and eliminating the use of locked seclusion. Every time such action is imposed upon children in school it is extremely dangerous and traumatizing for all involved. COPAA urges serious and swift action to protect existing rights and end the disproportionate and discriminatory imposition of restraint and seclusion upon students with disabilities, students of color, and other disenfranchised subgroups. COPAA continues to support HR. 1381 and S. 2020 and strongly urges Congress to pass federal legislation establish minimum standards necessary to ensure the safety of all students and personnel in schools.

###

About COPAA – The Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Inc. (COPAA) is an independent, nonprofit, §501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization of attorneys, advocates, parents and other professionals. COPAA members work to protect special education rights and secure excellence in education on behalf of the 7.1 million children with disabilities in America. With close to 1300 members nationwide, COPAA is at the forefront of special education advocacy. www.copaa.org

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Apps for children with disabilities

a4cwsn.com/

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The Oasis Church of Nashville is starting a free respite Parent Day Out monthly to provide respite for families who have children with special needs. They will provide care for both siblings and children with special needs, pre-school through high school. There will be volunteers who are Registered Nurses, Certified Special Education Teachers, Certified Behavior Analyst’s, Behavior Therapists, Mental Health Providers and other caring individuals.
Date: May 26, 2012
Location: Oasis Church
7533 Lords Chapel Dr.
Nashville, TN 37211

Time: 2:30p.m. - 5:30p.m.

Registration is required. Please fill out registration form and send it to [e-mail]. It must be turned in by Wednesday 24th 2012.


Questions: Please call the church office at 615.331.0202 or email Jennifer @oasischurch.tv.

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StarNight celebrates 50 years
Country star Josh Turner to headline

This year marks the 50th anniversary of one of our community's longest running charitable events. Save the Date for StarNight 2012: The Golden Jubilee on Saturday, August 25 at the Chattanooga Convention Center.

In 1962 Institute co-founders brothers Mose and Garrison Siskin launched a premier concert event that featured beloved and talented stars of the era like Tony Bennett and Dinah Shore. Past entertainers have also included LeAnn Rimes, Emmylou Harris, Boyz II Men, Hootie and the Blowfish and Sugarland.

As the Institute's largest fundraising event, StarNight is one of the most highly-anticipated black-tie event of the year, attracting nearly 1,500 people. All proceeds from StarNight benefit children with special needs through education, outreach, developmental pediatric health care and research.

StarNight 2012: The Golden Jubilee is co-chaired by husband and wife team Grady and Phyllis Williams.

"This year's 50th anniversary of StarNight is a very special reminder of the history of the Institute and what this organization represents to countless families and children in our community," said Jerry Jensen, Institute president and CEO.

StarNight opens with a cocktail reception at 6 p.m. and a formal dinner followed by Turner's performance with an intimate, small venue feel. An after-party with dancing and live DJ rounds out the night.

For more information about StarNight 2012: The Golden Jubilee and how to purchase tickets, visit siskin.org/starnight.

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ART with heART - Donate Now

Tennessee Voices for Children is hosting a fundraising event during the Hillsboro Village Art Walk on June 7th from 5-8 p.m. in front of Sweet CeCe's on 21st Avenue.

We need your support to make this event a success. There are a number of ways to get involved:

sponsor the event - we will not meet our fundraising goals without donations
attend the event - purchase artwork by TVC children, books, t-shirts, or bid
on one of our awesome silent auction items which includes round trip airfare on Southwest Airlines
or volunteer - help make the event a success!

Contact Rikki Harris - 615-269-7751 or DONATE NOW