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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 10:57:16 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 10:58:13 GMT -5
Hello everyone, DLAC will be the featured charity when the Predators play the Dallas Stars on Monday, Feb. 25. DLAC will receive a portion of all ticket sales made through the link below. This is a great way to support our work and enjoy the excitement of SMASHVILLE. $10.00 from every lower bowl ticket and $5.00 from every upper bowl ticket purchased will come back to DLAC. In addition, we will also be hosting an Emergency Preparedness Drive, collecting supplies to create Go-Kits that will be distributed to people with disabilities with the help of partner agencies. www.nashvillepredators.com/dlac Please help spread the word. Thanks! Francisca Francisca Guzman Executive Assistant/Media Coordinator Disability Law & Advocacy Center of Tennessee 2416 21st Avenue South, Suite 100 Nashville, TN 37212 615.732.6966 franciscag@DLACTN.org www.dlactn.org
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 10:59:08 GMT -5
Learning To Dance With the Dancing Peas for people who are Visually Impaired and Blind
We had alot of positive feedback from the sessions at the Adaptive sports Conference last fall on this program and I hope you all will take advantage of this great opportunity. See below details from our friends. Learn to dance Swing, Waltz and then some to get more fun out of social situations and life! Classes especially for the blind and visually impaired. No partner necessary. Classes taught by professional dance instructor from Dance World, Ms. Patricia Lefler and her assistant, Ms. Peggy Ivey, (together they are the Dancing Peas) and other volunteers.
When: Monday nights 6:30-8pm Feb. 18th- March 25th
Where: The Barn at First Church Unity 5125 Franklin Pike Nashville, TN Drive straight behind church at the back right of the lot. The Barn have green metal roof. Dance lessons will be held in 'The Barn'. There will be balloons on the door for the entrance.
Cost: Donations/Love offering
Wear: Comfortable clothes and shoes that attach to feet. At least a strap around the heel ladies. No flip flops or mules.
PLEASE JOIN THE DANCING PEAS TO HAVE FUN AND LEARN TO DANCE
If any questions, please call Patricia 615.403.5483 or Peggy 615.440.8211
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 11:00:28 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 11:01:05 GMT -5
FREE Predators Tickets! The Nashville Predators have once again generously offered ASMT families free tickets to games this season! If you would like to be eligible for receiving these tickets, please email Elizabeth at admin@tnautism.org with your name and contact information. Tickets will go to current ASMT members only. Contact us now - we have just received our first set of free tickets!
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 11:01:48 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 11:03:17 GMT -5
Sole Mio to Host Benefit for the Technology Access Center Staff and board members of the Technology Access Center invite you to join them at Sole Mio restaurant in Nashville, on February 20, 2013 to benefit the Center. From 4-10pm, fifty-percent of all food sales will be donated to the Center. All you have to do is enjoy some delicious Italian cuisine! Reservations are requested by Sole Mio staff members, and may be made online, or by telephone. 615-256-4013 The Technology Access Center serves individuals with disabilities in the middle Tennessee area by helping them reach independence in every aspect of life through the use of assistive technology. Help us help someone adapt for success! Please support the Center on the 20th! Thank you in advance, for your support! Evan Evan J. Espey, Outreach Coordinator Technology Access Center 475 Metroplex Drive Suite 301 Nashville, TN 37211 615-248-6733 (800)-368-4651 Fax: 615-259-2536 www.tacnashville.org Please help TAC raise funds. When you search the internet by using www.goodsearch.com or make purchases on-line, using www.goodshop.com, with no additional cost to you; just be sure to type “Technology Access Center-TAC (Nashville, TN)” as your cause.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 11:05:30 GMT -5
FY 2013-2014 Haslam Budget Details: On January 28, Governor Haslam released his budget proposal for the next fiscal year to the legislature, state agency commissioners, and the public. Below are details of how the Governor’s budget affects services and supports DIDD provides, as well as persons supported:
• Allows for enrollment of 286 more people in home and community based services (HCBS) • Funds net growth of 96 people in the home and community based waiver program (recurring state cost of $4,448,200) • Funds the Arlington lawsuit exit plan including adding an estimated 191 people into HCBS waiver services (recurring state cost of $10,704,100; non-recurring state cost of $475,000) • Continues funding for the Family Support Program at the FY2013 level of $7,383,600 ($2,681,500 is in non-recurring funds) • Provides funding for the temporary continuation of operations at the Clover Bottom Developmental Center through 6/30/2014 (non-recurring cost of $1,309,200) • Provides funding for state employee salary adjustments • 1.5% pay increase for all state employees • salary market adjustment for state employee job classifications that do not compete with the marketplace • Reduces 120 authorized DIDD positions (47 are estimated to be vacant): o 15 Central Office o 35 Regional Offices o 35 Resource Centers o 31 Greene Valley Developmental Center o 4 Community Homes • Facilitates programmatic changes at the Harold Jordan Center enabling the collection of Medicaid funding (estimated at $2,873,800) • Provides for capital project maintenance and improvements • Harold Jordan Center interior renovations ($2,850,000) • Arlington campus cottages demolition ($2,350,000) • Ruilman Center exterior and interior renovations ($720,000) • Greene Valley Developmental Center essential maintenance ($3,620,000) • Arlington Campus essential maintenance ($2,800,000)
I will continue to work with administration and legislative officials on the state’s financial support for services for persons supported. Legislative budget hearings are scheduled for March 20 and March 21. I expect the final FY 2013-2014 budget will be approved by the legislature near the end of April or early May.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 11:08:53 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 11:10:11 GMT -5
Helping Your Autistic Child Understand Autism by KATHERINE on FEBRUARY 11, 2012 Majority of children with high functioning autism really want to understand what autism is and why they are different from others. They want to understand why it is difficult for them to have friends or why they sometimes cannot understand certain situations. Giving him relevant information to help him understand his situation is very important for him.
If your child is trying to look for more information, here are some things that you can do to help him get a better understanding of what autism is -
1. Introduce him to other children with autism.
If your child is currently not exposed to other children with autism, it would help for you to find opportunities in which you can help your child meet other children who are just like him. Join special groups and activities within your area and connect with other parents too. It is important for your child to be able to connect with other children as this would give them the opportunity to communicate with someone who thinks the same way they do.
Keep in mind that while most children with autism often prefer things to people, children with high functioning autism often still want to fit in and have friends. They do try to connect with others but have difficulty doing so and their failure to connect with other children often causes them stress.
2. Read books or articles written by other people with autism
The best people who can truly describe what autism is are those who are affected by it. One of the best, well known author is Temple Grandin. She has written several books which have inspired not only the children affected by autism but their parents as well. If you do a search on the internet, you will find several other books which have been written by children with autism.
3. Attend conferences or talks given by speakers who have autism
When choosing a conference to attend with your child, it is important that you take time to select the conference really well. After all, you do not want to bring your child to a conference where he will feel like he is being talked about.
Speakers who are diagnosed with autism usually can explain autism very well and can do so in a more effective manner.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 11:16:18 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 2, 2013 11:17:46 GMT -5
Autistic Teenager Becomes Honorary Police Officer by DAVIDY on JANUARY 29, 2013 It started with a wish and ended with a friendship. 18-year-old Blaize Richard, diagnosed with autism and mental disabilities, had a birthday wish of becoming a police officer for Jennings, LA when he turned 18 in July 2012. His mother, Angie Richard, hatched a plan to get him a uniform and a tour of a squad car. more... www.autismunited.org/blog/autistic-teenager-becomes-honorary-police-officer-802412.html
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 4, 2013 18:08:44 GMT -5
New Mobility, a monthly magazine for active wheelchair users, explores recreation, accessible travel, technology, relationships, sexuality, parenting, home, creativity, education, employment and more. Click here to view or download an issue of New Mobility. sg.newmobility.com/wf/click?upn=7GJLUmslCMoOTwZef85Bstj3pNUQ-2BiXgwUwZk-2BVoO4qNbJyyQXmTTawXTxJbQaREb70gK2TRBFq2JWuV4e9kFtJX-2BhSF0KL5kCJROin-2FDd0-3D_wSpDjtv9LXAh5y6k5ChoLk3lTEotlIQ4dRQn3oR8vdgKB9Ll3GyXqgeY1oqo9ipGexFXY8OJUlXrd1s4cBi8zA6HLu5CpoFnlXl-2FsUO7blIlPW-2Ba0JQBZQUscV0ovk0s019fkf1e5ufzbOgf6HhjKhp4TnizCRc7HMTl7Sd-2FsTg-3D
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 4, 2013 18:12:51 GMT -5
Hello, Attached is a short blub about the upcoming Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Workshop the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center will be hosting on April 11-12. Also attached is a flyer for the event. Please disseminate this material in any e-mails, newsletters, etc., you may produce to get the word out to those who might benefit from attending! If there are any questions, please feel free to e-mail or call me. Thank you, Elizabeth Turner, M.A. Communications Program Coordinator Vanderbilt Kennedy Center Peabody Box 40 230 Appleton Place Nashville, TN 37203 Phone: (615) 322-8240 Fax: (615) 322-8236 Elizabeth.Turner@vanderbilt.edu kc.vanderbilt.eduAugmentative, Alternative Communication (AAC) April workshop to be held at Vanderbilt By ELIZABETH TURNER VKC Staff An Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Workshop will be held at the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center (VKC) April 11-12. The workshop will examine how to link components of AAC assessment to AAC interventions for children with all types of disabilities. Attendees have the option of attending one or both of the training events. The event will kick off on Thursday, April 11, when Erin Richardson, Co-Director for Advocacy, Special Education Advocacy Center, will present “Assistive Technology for Students with Disabilities – The Legal Ins and Outs.” This presentation is free and open to the public and will be held from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in Room 241 of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center/One Magnolia Circle Building, located at 110 Magnolia Circle, Nashville. For planning purposes, registration is required at kc.vanderbilt.edu/registration by Friday, April 5. The 2013 AAC Workshop “AAC Assessment: Making the Match” will be held Friday, April 12, 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. in VKC Room 241. Leading the workshop will be Karen Casey, M.A., CCC-SLP, who has more than 25 years of experience working with assistive technology and AAC. Workshop registrants will receive .6 ASHA Continuing Education credits. Registration for the full-day workshop is $175 for professionals, $50 for students and parents, or a group rate of $125 for two or more from the same school or agency. Fee includes lunch, breaks, and instructional resources. Paid registration can be completed at kc.vanderbilt.edu/registration by the Friday, April 5, deadline. Space is limited. In addition to the VKC, event co-sponsors are the Department of Special Education, Peabody College; Department of Hearing & Speech Sciences, Vanderbilt Bill Wilkerson Center; Vanderbilt Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Training Program; and the Technology Access Center. For more information, call (615) 322-8240.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 6, 2013 18:44:12 GMT -5
Governor appoints Commissioner Jim Henry as interim
NASHVILLE – Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam today announced that Department of Children’s Services (DCS) Commissioner Kate O’Day has resigned from her post.
“Kate has informed me that she felt the time was right to step down,” Haslam said. “She was concerned that she had become more of a focus than the children the department serves.
I appreciate Kate’s service to this administration and to our state. She has done a lot of good work in identifying longstanding problems that have hampered the department, and we will build on those efforts as we move forward.”
O’Day joined the Haslam administration in January 2011. Prior to that, she served as president and chief executive officer of Child & Family Tennessee in Knoxville. She began her career as a youth counselor with the Broward County Sheriff’s Office in Florida and later served as vice president of program development and evaluation for Children’s Home Society of Florida and director of program services for Covenant House of Florida.
The governor has named Commissioner Jim Henry, who currently heads up the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD), to serve as interim commissioner of DCS.
“I am grateful to Jim for agreeing to take on this interim role,” Haslam continued. “He has significant experience both in the private and public sectors and has devoted the better part of his life to caring for some of our most vulnerable citizens.”
Henry is the first commissioner of DIDD, which was formerly a division of the Department of Finance and Administration before becoming a state department on January 15, 2011. Before joining the Haslam administration, Henry served as president and chief executive officer of Omni Visions, Inc, a company serving adults with developmental disabilities and children and families in crisis. A Vietnam veteran and former mayor of Kingston, Henry spent 12 years as a state representative and six of those years as minority leader.
Henry will continue to serve as commissioner of DIDD during his interim role of leading DCS. The governor will immediately begin a search for a new commissioner of DCS.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 6, 2013 18:45:18 GMT -5
AUTISM-RELATED EVENTS
Summer Program Opportunities Forum When: February 5th, 6 to 8pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue Wondering what your child can do this Summer to stay busy? Looking for something safe and fun, but welcoming to children with specific needs? Join LifeLine and Chattanooga Autism Center for a Summer Program Forum. We'll be highlighting some local opportunities and you will leave with an updated comprehensive list of the opportunities we know about in the Metro Chattanooga area. Don't miss it! RSVP to Lifeline at 423-622-4007
Usborne Book Sale - benefits CAC When: February 7th, 11:30 to 1:30 Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue Great kids books and great prices Part of the proceeds of sales of these books go to the CAC.
H.O.P.E. - Autism Parent meet-up group When: February 7, noon Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue What: Come join us for an informal get-together every 1st & 3rd Thurs of the month. People can discuss positive experiences, challenges, share helpful ideas that have worked for them, and help others solve problems in everyday life when it comes to Autism.
Awareness Walk Planning Meeting When: February 7, 6:00 - 7:00 Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue Who: Anyone interested in volunteering to develop this event. Agenda: Those who volunteered for various committees will report on their progress. We'll discuss our existing sponsors, the route, registration plans, and needs to create content for materials and website.
Mothers Moving Mountains - Autism Support Group When: February 9, 1-3pm Where: 6201 Lee Highway, behind Nutrition World. Topic: "Feasting with Food Allergies: Adapting Recipes for Special Diets" For more information, please contact Lisa Dupree, M.Ed. —Mothers MovingMountains Facilitator, (423) 847-3730, autismhope4you@yahoo.com This support group meets the 2nd Saturday of every month. Parking is free, children are welcome!
ClubSib Ice Cream Social When: Saturday, February 16th 12:30-2:30 Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue. This event is for syblings of kids with ASD. We'll have a Sundae Buffet, arts, crafts, games & fun!!!! Eat lunch before you come but save room for dessert. See Facebook Event Page to RSVP
H.O.P.E. - Autism Parent meet-up group When: February 21st , noon Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue What: Come join us for an informal get-together every 1st & 3rd Thurs of the month. People can discuss positive experiences, challenges, share helpful ideas that have worked for them, and help others solve problems in everyday life when it comes to Autism.
Sensory Film - Escape From Planet Earth When: Febrary 23, 10am to noon. Where: UEC Theatre 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd, Hixson (exit 20 junction on highway 75) Cost: $5 per person. Link to Facebook Sensory Film Event Page UEC says you are welcome to bring your own snacks or regular movie concessions will be available for purchase! The lights and sound will be at a tolerable level not too low and not too high. Since it will be just families with kids with ASD and siblings, talking and moving around is not frowned on!
Mothers Moving Mountains - Autism Support Group When: March 9, 1-3pm Where: 6201 Lee Highway, behind Nutrition World. Speaker: Sensei Corey Green of Green's Karate, Topic: Special Needs Karate and Updates on Sensei Green. For more information, please contact Lisa Dupree, M.Ed. —Mothers MovingMountains Facilitator, (423) 847-3730, autismhope4you@yahoo.com This support group meets the 2nd Saturday of every month. Parking is free, children are welcome!
Mothers Moving Mountains - Autism Support Group When: April 13, 1-3pm Where: 6201 Lee Highway, behind Nutrition World. Speaker: Julie Duff, Topoic: Adult with Autism Spectrum Issues helps us celebrate Autism Awareness Month. For more information, please contact Lisa Dupree, M.Ed. —Mothers MovingMountains Facilitator, (423) 847-3730, autismhope4you@yahoo.com This support group meets the 2nd Saturday of every month. Parking is free, children are welcome!
4th Annual Community Conference on Autism When: Friday, April 26th from 8:30am to 3:40pm. Where: Chattanooga Convention Center Early Bird Registration Form Early Bird Cost: $25 for individual, $45 for family, $85 for clinicians seeking CEUs. Keynote speaker: Scott Badesch, President of The Autism Society
Mothers Moving Mountains - Autism Support Group When: May 11, 1-3pm Where: 6201 Lee Highway, behind Nutrition World. Speaker: Joan Clark, Speech Therapist with Speech, Language, and Reading Center. Topic: "Thank Heavens for Autistic Spectrum Disorders! For more information, please contact Lisa Dupree, M.Ed. —Mothers MovingMountains Facilitator, (423) 847-3730, autismhope4you@yahoo.com This support group meets the 2nd Saturday of every month. Parking is free, children are welcome!
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 6, 2013 18:46:18 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 6, 2013 18:47:58 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 8, 2013 16:11:58 GMT -5
FAQ from Autism SourceTM: Puberty and Adolescence Transitions are often difficult for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Adapting to a new phase in life, such as puberty, can be challenging. However, preparatory activities as well as educational materials can reduce the stress of transitions, resulting in confidence and comfort during these difficult phases. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=6QAMG0_WdRXr5Ev-7WGLkAAutism Journeys: Lee "Some people believe that 'Autistics' are antisocial. I am not antisocial, though some people might interpret my behavior as though I am." Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=ZmDi-kv82uLcgzjj91IXqQADVOCACY The Autism Society’s 2013 Advocacy Agenda The Autism Society has a simple goal: To improve the lives of all affected by autism. In order to improve lives, we focus on ensuring that all individuals with autism and their families have access to the help they need. When needs are met, people with autism can maximize their dignity and independence and enjoy improved quality of life. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=bGuRYAgu52XjHgNr2Nb5TwJoin the 2013 Disability Policy Seminar Does what happens in Washington, D.C., really matter? You bet! Every day millions of Americans with intellectual and developmental disabilities are impacted by the public policy decisions – big and small -- made by their representatives in Congress. Read more support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Ev8qMpZyvmioAosWzHfNZwCONFERENCE Save the Date for the 44th Autism Society Conference and Exhibition The Autism Society, its Pennsylvania chapters and other key partners are continuing to plan the 44th annual Autism Society National Conference and Exhibition held July 10 - 13, 2013 in Pittsburgh. Conference registration and exhibit sales will open online soon - stay tuned! Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=nwjikW16Wp3G-o5HDctEzQRESEARCH Children with Autism at Significant Risk for Feeding Problems and Nutritional Deficits Healthy eating not only promotes growth and development, but also provides important opportunities for children to socialize during meals. A new, comprehensive analysis of feeding behavior in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) indicates that these children are five times more likely to have a feeding problem, including extreme tantrums during meals, severe food selectivity and ritualistic mealtime behaviors. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=ZR2ugyA5Tih7bId7iAdddgRESOURCES Destination Friendship Over the years of providing Destination Friendship, the authors have witnessed many magical moments. This book was written with the hope of spreading this magic to many more individuals with ASD. It provides a roadmap for the reader to follow when teaching friendship skills. The book provides a series of theme-based sessions and a large selection of fun activities. It also includes subtle strategies designed to target a wide variety of skills that are necessary to foster friendships. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=fgt2IEnQ0L1q_izwj5VSyQExploring Feelings for Young Children with High-Functioning Autism or Asperger’s Disorder Young children with autism have particular difficulty in understanding and controlling their emotions, especially when those emotions are negative. This practical manual for professionals provides a set of simple strategies to help children with high-functioning autism or Asperger’s Syndrome who suffer from mood difficulties to decrease negative feelings and increase positive feelings in daily life. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Eo4PBgaASX2tRv5jGgk_kw A Curriculum for Teaching Sexual Health The book Intimate Relationships and Sexual Health provides a curriculum that instructors can use to teach adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorders and other social challenges. Specifically, the curriculum is targeted to people with average to high cognitive abilities. Read more: support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=vsfLCoYXTVj8XSrlKzoQxQ
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 8, 2013 16:14:51 GMT -5
February Newsletter 2013
Chillin' Like Villains - 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. FEBRUARY: Fat Tuesday Party WHAT: Come out and celebrate the fun and unique Mardi Gras' festivities! WHEN: Thursday, February 7 TIME: 6-8pm WHERE: Walker Pavilion in Coolidge Park COST: FREE! RSVP to: Jessie at 423-643-5716 or steele_je@chattanooga.gov
MARCH: Karaoke at the Zoo WHAT: Love to sing?! Want to hear your friends of the Chillin' crew showcase their talents?! THEN DON'T MISS THIS EVENT! WHEN: Tuesday, March 19 TIME: 6-8pm WHERE: The Education Building* at the CHATTANOOGA ZOO! COST: $5 for the cost of pizza RSVP (with your song) BY: Thursday, March 14 to Jessie at 423-643-5716 or steele_je@chattanooga.gov Note that you will enter the zoo from the back entrance, this is done by entering Warner Park from McCallie Street. *The Education Building is a larger venue than the Walker Pavilion, so bring your friends and family to watch these talented performances! ______________________________ Dance Fever This class will include dance instruction, as well as, free style! No prior dance instruction needed, just the desire to learn some new moves and have a great time! WHO: Individuals with cognitive/intellectual disabilities, ages 14 and up WHEN: 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month, February 21 - May 2 (6 sessions) DATES: 2/21, 3/7, 3/21, 4/4, 4/18, 5/2 TIME: 6-7pm WHERE: The Dance Room at Shepherd Community Center (2124 Shepherd Rd)NOTE LOCATION CHANGE from South Chatt Community Center COST: FREE! CONTACT: Jessie at 423-643-5716 or steele_je@chattanooga.gov . RSVP at least 3 days prior ______________________________ Hiking Another great way to get out and be active in the fresh air, explore with your friends and meet new ones! Hikes are planned within a 1-2 hour time frame, round trip. Different physical fitness levels, as well as abilities, are encouraged to participate. MARCH: Saturday, March 16 @10am NOTE LOCATION AND TIME CHANGE Cravens House on Lookout Mountain Please let Jessie know if you will be attending! 423-643-5716 or steele_je@chattanooga.gov ______________________________ Scenic City Adaptive Rowing and Paddling Program CHECK OUT ALL OF THE NEW OPPORTUNITIES WITH THIS PROGRAM! Are you a veteran with a disability? READ ON! WHO: Individuals with *physical and/or cognitive/intellectual disabilities and their families, as well as disabled veterans and their families! 2 separate classes will be offered for the two populations (veterans and non-veterans) WHAT: This program will continue to team up with expertise of Outdoor Chattanooga and provide the opportunity of learning to kayak/canoe and is now adding a paddle board and/or rowing component (more details to come). This winter, classes will be offered indoors for individuals to learn correct paddling technique, water safety and increase endurance. TIME: 5-6pm DATES: Wednesday evenings Non Veteran Group: 2/6, 2/20 and 3/6 Veteran Group: 2/13, 2/27 and 3/13 WHERE:**Brainerd Community Center's Indoor Pool (1010 North Moore Rd) COST: FREE! RSVP: Jessie at 423.643.5716 or steele_je@chattanooga.gov by the Monday of the week of the class (so at least 2 days prior to the class). *All equipment and adaptations provided! **PLEASE NOTE, WE WILL NOT BE AT UTC (WHERE THE CLASS HAS PREVIOUSLY BEEN HELD). MAINTENANCE MUST BE PERFORMED ON THE POOL SO WE ARE MOVING TO THE VERY NICE AND ACCESSIBLE INDOOR POOL AT THE BRAINERD COMMUNITY CENTER The grant funding for this program is awarded by U.S. Paralympics, a division of the U.S. Olympic Committee, through funding provided by Veterans Affairs. The grants are provided to facilitate the growth of Paralympic sport programming for disabled Veterans and disabled members of the Armed Forces. ______________________________ St. Patrick's Dance in conjunction with the ARC of Hamilton County and Orange Grove Center WHEN: Saturday, March 16 WHERE: Shepherd Recreation Center (2124 Shepherd Road) TIME: 2 - 4pm COST:FREE! RSVP: Jessie at 423-643-5716 or steele_je@chattanooga.gov Light snacks and refreshments will be served. ______________________________ Super Hoops An intramural basketball program focusing on the sport, as well as, the social, physical, cognitive and emotional skills. WHO: Individuals ages 12 and up who have cognitive disabilities WHEN: Mondays, February 25 - April 15 TIME: Skill Level 1: 5:30-6:30pm/ Skill Level 2: 6:30-7:30pm (call for questions on skill level placement) WHERE: North Chattanooga Recreation Center (406 May St., 37405) COST: $20.00 for the entire 8-week program CONTACT: Jessie @ 423-643-5716 or steele_je@chattanooga.gov ______________________________ Sweetheart Dance WHEN: Friday, February 15 WHERE: Chattanooga Zoo, Education Building (enter at the back gate of the Zoo. This is accessed from the McCallie entrance to Warner Park) TIME: 6:30 - 8:30pm COST: $5 (Caregivers are FREE, tickets may be purchased at the event) Sweets, light snacks and refreshments will be served! RSVP REQUIRED at least 5 days prior to event!!! Contact Jessie at 423-643-5716 or steele_je@chattanooga.gov ______________________________ Therapeutic Art Classes Hixson Community Center's Art Program WHAT: Art workshops offered to help participants cope with stress and learn ways to express themselves through various forms of art. WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays WHERE: Hixson Community Center (5400 School Drive) WHO: All ages of individuals with learning difficulties, cognitive/intellectual disabilities, eating disorders, cancer, PTSD, etc. COST: FREE! CONTACT: Hixson Community Center at 423.490.9289 for more details ______________________________ Wheelchair Basketball Pick-Up Games WHO: Individuals of all abilities! Everyone needs to experience this fun opportunity! DATE: Saturday, February 16 TIME: 10am - 12pm WHERE: Hixson Community Center (5400 School Drive) COST: FREE! CONTACT: Elaine at 423-697-1345 or adams_e@chattanooga.gov Offered in conjunction with SPARC (SPorts, Arts and Recreation of Chattanooga, a chapter of DS-USA) ______________________________ Other Things Happening Right Now in TR.... The following programs are full, but we want you to see all that Therapeutic Recreation has to offer! If a program interests you, be on the lookout for the next time it comes around. Climbing Higher Indoor Adaptive Climbing Program. Big thanks to Urban Rocks, Rock/Creek and Columbia Sportswear for taking this program to new heights! Club Discovery Club Discovery is a free, inclusive after-school program at the Creative Discovery Museum, designed to provide opportunities for children with and without special needs to investigate the world in a safe and fun environment! Special Olympics Basketball Therapeutic Recreation has THREE TEAMS playing in the local tournament this year! The tournament will be held on Friday, February 22 at UTC's Maclellan gym from 10-4pm. Stop by and cheer us on! The Little Gym A gymnastics program for young children with special needs and their siblings. The Little Gym in East Brainerd partners with Therapeutic Recreation for this program.
Elaine Adams, CTRS Jessie Steele, CTRS Therapeutic Recreation Coordinator Therapeutic Recreation Specialist adams_e@chattanooga.gov steele_je@chattanooga.gov 423.697.1345 423.643.5716
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 8, 2013 16:15:38 GMT -5
Dear Chattanooga Community, My name is Samantha and I am the state coordinator for the Ms. Wheelchair Tennessee organization. We are currently in need of contenders for the crown of Ms., Junior Miss, and Little Miss Wheelchair Tennessee 2013!!! All eligibility requirements, competition information, and applications can be found on our website at www.mswheelchairtn.org . This year's competition will be held in Chattanooga! We would love to get other Tennessee organizations involved. We also have application forms for those wish to hold a position on the board of directors or volunteer. Please, pass this information on to anyone who may be interested in this organization. Thank you, Samantha Moreno State Coordinator (580) 276-7243
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 8, 2013 16:16:09 GMT -5
CABIA Chattanooga Area Brain Injury Association Support Group meetings: FOR CLEVELAND GROUP Monday, February 18th- 6 p.m. Speaker: Mr. Donald Knight Topic: "Why confabulation (imagined or distorted life stories) can be caused by Brain Injury" Location: Wesley United Methodist Church 3405 Peerless Road, Cleveland, TN ****Snacks to be provided***** FOR DOWNTOWN GROUP Tuesday, February 19th- 6 p.m. Topic: GAME NIGHT Come ENJOY a night of laughter and fun! Location: Siskin Hospital, 2nd Floor Conference Center One Siskin Plaza, Chattanooga, TN ****Snacks/finger foods to be provided****** Please RSVP (let Lisa know) if you plan on attending so that we can have the right amount of food! You can call 634-1572 or email chattanoogabraininjury@gmail.com _____________________________________
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 8, 2013 16:16:36 GMT -5
Statewide Support Group List Tennessee Disability Pathfinder is pleased to announce that our Statewide Support Group List has recently been updated! It is available online at: kc.vanderbilt.edu/kennedy_files/PathfinderTNSupportGroupList2012.pdf If you are aware of any additional disability-related support groups not included on this list, please contact us either by phone (800.640.4636 or 615.322.8529) or email (tnpathfinder@vanderbilt.edu)
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 8, 2013 16:20:33 GMT -5
www.autismunited.org/blog/autism-friendly-performance-of-spiderman-on-broadway-802506.htmlAutism-Friendly Performance Of Spiderman On Broadway by DAVIDY on FEBRUARY 8, 2013 Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark is living up to its name in more ways than one. The smash Broadway rock musical, featuring music and lyrics by U2′s Bono and The Edge, will turn up the lights for its autism-friendly performance on April 27 at 2pm at the Foxwoods Theatre on Broadway (For more, follow above link)
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 10, 2013 15:39:54 GMT -5
Position Announcement: The department is still actively seeking a candidate to fill its State Director of Employment and Day Services position in Central Office. To view the complete job description, please visit: www.tn.gov/didd/newsroom/announcements/DirectorofDayServices.shtmlIf interested, please send your resume to Karen Haynes, DIDD Director of Human Resources, at Karen.Haynes@tn.gov.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 10, 2013 15:41:06 GMT -5
DIDD Encourages Families and Providers to Utilize SMART 911: In our attempt to continually provide information to our stakeholders related to safety, prevention, and services that are available to improve the lives of persons for whom we provide support, I would encourage each of you to consider utilizing the SMART911 enhanced emergency response system. Please read the excerpt below detailing the system and availability. Excerpt provided by ravemobilesafety.com: More than one million citizens across Tennessee now have access to Rave Mobile Safety's Smart911, the national safety database, for enhanced emergency response. Public Safety officials in these locations recognized the benefit of having additional data on 9-1-1 calls and are encouraging citizens to create a Safety Profile for their household at www.Smart911.com. A Safety Profile can include the critical data that a citizen wants first responders to have in the event of an emergency call for service. Once created, when a citizen places a 9-1-1 call, their profile is automatically displayed at the answering PSAP, enabling emergency teams to better understand the situation and respond to the right location, with the right personnel and the right equipment. Each Safety Profile is private, secure, and only available to dispatchers during an emergency call. It can include home or work addresses associated with mobile phone numbers, medical conditions and disabilities, photos of family members, floor-plans and other rescue information. Smart911 is a national network, therefore, anytime a citizen dials 9-1-1 across the country and their call is answered by a local Smart911 supported PSAP, their profile will be available. You can access this innovative support system via the following link: www.smart911.com/.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 10, 2013 15:42:41 GMT -5
DIDD Web Based Training Announcement: The DIDD Office of Staff Development and Relias/Essential Learning are pleased to announce that significant progress is being made with the development of the new DIDD web based training site. We are at a point where we need input from our agency partners in finalizing some site design questions. To better report on learners and training, we have created a questionnaire to capture some vital information from all DIDD providers of services, including Independent Support Coordination agencies and independent therapists and clinicians. Please designate agency staff, preferably your training director, coordinator and/or the person who will be the primary contact with our DIDD Relias/Essential Learning global administrators. Complete the following questionnaire (Data Capture for Designing Learner Enrollment and Reporting Fields) available at: tn.gov/didd/newsroom/OpenLine/resources/Questionnaire%20for%20Agency_020813.docx Please return it to the DIDD Office of Staff Development by Friday, February 15 via fax to Karen Chambers at 615-770-7456 or Karen.Chambers@tn.gov. We are pleased that agencies who already have contracts with Essential Learning will be able to add the Developmental Disabilities curriculum library at no additional charge. If any agency is interested in the Essential Learning mental health or nursing libraries, those can be purchased directly from Essential Learning and the sites will be customized. However, at no charge to DIDD waiver provider agencies, the entire Developmental Disabilities library will be available plus any new curriculum developed in addition to lessons that may be required by DIDD based upon the learner’s role and responsibilities, Federal and State regulations, and oversight entities.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 10, 2013 15:43:45 GMT -5
National Hot Rod Association Pro Stock Champ Visits GVDC: What does Greeneville have in common with Allen Johnson, 2013 NHRA Pro Stock Champion, and the folks who live at Greene Valley? It is home to both! During a quick trip home from personal appearances and testing sessions, Johnson stopped in last week at Rosewood Cottage to visit, sign autographs, and pose with the folks for photographs. Several individuals who live in Pinewood Cottage also took advantage of the invitation to “come on down” and meet the community’s hometown champion! Johnson wasn’t able to bring his championship trophy to Greene Valley as it was on a tour of its own; however, he did bring one of his Wally Awards and explained that it was named after NHRA founder Wally Parks.
Johnson’s visit was not a spur of the moment idea. He had been invited to Greene Valley’s “Race Day” for several years, but the NHRA schedule had him on the road during that time. It was just a matter of timing.
Several weeks ago, Johnson’s personal friend, racing fan, and GVDC employee Becky Harmon arranged an outing for two gentlemen to his engine shop in Greeneville. His father and engine builder Roy “Rooster” Johnson gave the men a 2 ½ hour tour explaining how engines are built in the shop from the ground up. Other Johnson & Johnson racing employees were eager to explain each aspect of the engine build. The gentlemen were thrilled when an engine was placed on the DYNO (measures things such as horsepower, RPM’s, and torque). As per customary procedure, everyone was given protective ear wear before the engine started its roaring climb to hundreds of horsepower. They learned that testing is very important because at the track, Johnson’s Dodge Avenger is like a missile going from 0 to 211 mph in about 6.5 seconds!
As a special gift, the men were sent home with a Team MOPAR baseball cap and given an invitation to visit again sometime.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 10, 2013 15:44:18 GMT -5
Tennessee Disability MegaConference: The 11th Annual MegaConference will be held May 30-31 at the Nashville Airport Marriott hotel. The Tennessee Disability MegaConference is Tennessee’s largest disability-specific conference for individuals with disabilities, families, and professionals. At the conference, people share the latest information and innovations on many topics including housing, employment, education, health care, recreation and leisure, mental health, and others. Continuing education credits are offered in many categories. People attending make new friends and important connections as everyone works together to encourage the full participation of all people with disabilities in their own lives. Registration is now open and requests for stipends can made through March 30, 2013. For up-to-date conference information, please visit: www.tndisabilitymegaconference.org/html/Stipend-Registration.html. In keeping with this year’s theme, "Deep Roots, Broad Branches and Strong Wings" they are seeking artists with disabilities to enter their Artwork Contest. All artwork submitted will be displayed during the MegaConference. The contest winner will receive recognition on their website and a picture of the winning piece will be featured on program books and t-shirts. The winner will also receive a complimentary exhibit table. For more information and to enter the contest, please visit: www.tndisabilitymegaconference.org/library/Art%20Contest%20Entry%20Form%202013.pdf
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Feb 10, 2013 15:45:20 GMT -5
Next Steps at Vanderbilt: Applications are now being accepted for Next Steps at Vanderbilt, a 2-year college certificate program for students with intellectual disabilities. The fall semester begins in August 2013 and applications are due February 15. Young adults seeking admission to Next Steps at Vanderbilt should be between 18 and 26 years old, have completed their high school studies, and have a strong desire to go to college and learn skills that will enable them to live more independently. They need to have families who support this goal. For more information on the program, eligibility requirements, and to download an application packet, please visit: kc.vanderbilt.edu/site/nextstep/page.aspx?id=1344 Please call the Next Steps at Vanderbilt office with any questions at (615) 343-0822 or email them at NextStep@Vanderbilt.edu.
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