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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 15, 2013 10:14:46 GMT -5
Next Steps is getting ready for a series of fundraisers in the next couple of weeks. We would love for you to participate and spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues…anyone who likes to eat will enjoy these events! Here is a link to all of the information: kc.vanderbilt.edu/site/newsandevents/news/page.aspx?id=3915 If you or someone you know is not able to join us, but would still like to contribute, you can follow this link to make a donation: kc.vanderbilt.edu/site/giving/default.aspx. Just be sure to designate that the gift is for Next Steps. Thank you - hope you are able to join us! Kelly Kelly Wendel, M. Ed. Next Steps Postsecondary Education Program Vanderbilt Kennedy Center PMB 40/230 Appleton Place Nashville, TN 37203-5721 615-767-0227 kelly.wendel@vanderbilt.edu
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:32:39 GMT -5
ANNOUNCEMENTS: CAC is Seeking Volunteers Do you (or someone you know) have a day or two or more per week you could dedicate at the CAC for taking phone calls and performing other admin duties? Our long-term plan is to hire an office manager once we get grant money and donation money secured, but for now we're hoping some of you might be able to help us out. If you're interested, you can email Dave Buck or call him at 865-414-6669 Buck.Dave@gmail.com Extended School Year opportunity REACH Summer Learning is a three-day a week classroom-style program that runs for 6 weeks in summer and has a few spots open. The cost is $900. The student to teacher ratio is 2:1 and your child will receive intensive, small group learning targeting his or her specific IEP goals. The link takes you to a flier with details and contact information. cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/14caae277f/a41e3feaa7/ade037bf14Autism License Plates Tennessee will be able to have autism awareness plates minted and permanent if 1000 are presold. Consider clicking that link and ordering one for your vehicle. cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/14caae277f/a41e3feaa7/91127d2a3dStellar Therapy has Summer Camps Interested in Social Skills training or Fine Motor Skill development in a summer program? Check out Stellar's summer program listings. cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/14caae277f/a41e3feaa7/e011d8f3e1Check out the Conference Exhibitors We've got a nice big list of exhibitors this year. You'll get to visit them during breaks between talks and after lunch. 2013 Autism Conference Exhibitors. cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/14caae277f/a41e3feaa7/aa885098c2
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:34:54 GMT -5
AUTISM-RELATED EVENTS H.O.P.E. When: Thursday, April 18th, noon to 1pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Ave, suite 100 Helping Other Parents Excel (H.O.P.E.) is for families who have members with autism spectrum disorders. We meet the first & third Thursdays of every month at noon. Our mission is to provide a place for people to share positive experiences and ideas and when we can, offer support and suggest solutions for some of the difficult times. Please feel free to brown bag your lunch and drinks and eat while we meet. Fire Station Visit - Sensory Friendly! When: Saturday, April 20, 2013, 10am Where: Chattanooga Fire Station #7, 6911 Discovery Drive @ VW Plant Cost: Free Kids of all ages can expect a short presentation from a fireman in a full suit with another explaining the importance of the suit, seeing and touching a fire truck and possibly sit inside, get souvenirs, and more. The fire department will understand the sensory sensitivity of our children and will NOT turn on any sirens. Need to RSVP to Elizabeth Thornburgh by April 17th. 4th Annual Community Conference on Autism When: Friday, April 26th from 8:00am to 3:40pm. Where: Chattanooga Convention Center Cost: $35 for individual, $55 for family, $100 for clinicians seeking CEUs. REGISTRATION DEADLINE EXTENTED: Conference Registration Webpage Keynote speaker: Scott Badesch, President of The Autism Society. Click this link to see information about workshops and speakers and to find a copy of the agenda to download. cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/14caae277f/a41e3feaa7/147fb532c8Teen Asperger’s Group When: April 26th at 6:30 Where: CiCi’s Pizza in E. Brainerd For more info: contact Beckie Truex rebecca.p.truex@epbfi H.O.P.E When: Thursday, May 2nd, noon to 1pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Ave, suite 100 Helping Other Parents Excel (H.O.P.E.) is for families who have members with autism spectrum disorders. We meet the first & third Thursdays of every month at noon. Our mission is to provide a place for people to share positive experiences and ideas and when we can, offer support and suggest solutions for some of the difficult times. Please feel free to brown bag your lunch and drinks and eat while we meet. Autism Workshop Series When: Tuesday, May 7, 6:30 to 7:30pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue Topic: Managing Behaviors Speaker: Alyce Benson, LCSW Greater Chattanooga Aspies Semi-monthly Meeting When: May 9th, 6-7pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue, suite 100 We've been growing membership! At this meeting we can discuss what we'd like to do during the summer. Please feel free to bring a dessert. Adults with Aspergers or high-functioning autism welcome! 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! Sensory Film - Iron Man 3 When: May 11, 10am to noon. Where: UEC Theatre 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd, Cleveland (exit 20 junction on hwy 75) Cost: $5 per person. The Theater (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! Correct link to Sensory Film Facebook Event for Iron Man III. cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/14caae277f/a41e3feaa7/9f6f3ce655H.O.P.E When: Thursday, May 16th, noon to 1pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Ave, suite 100 Helping Other Parents Excel (H.O.P.E.) is for families who have members with autism spectrum disorders. We meet the first & third Thursdays of every month at noon. Our mission is to provide a place for people to share positive experiences and ideas and when we can, offer support and suggest solutions for some of the difficult times. Please feel free to brown bag your lunch and drinks and eat while we meet. CAC Spirit night at Chick-fil-A When: Thursday, May 23, 4-9pm Where: Chick-fil-A at 1804 Gunbarrel Road, Chattanooga What: Games, give-aways, and fun for the whole family. Come show your support, get to meet new people, and let's celebrate our community. 10% of the profits Chick-fil-A makes that night will go to the CAC! Autism Workshop Series When: Tuesday, June 4, 6:30 to 7:30pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue Topic: Sensory Integration Speaker: Mary Mullins, OT Sensory Film - Monster's U When: June 29, 10am to noon. Where: UEC Theatre 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd, Cleveland (exit 20 junction on hwy 75) Cost: $5 per person. The Theater (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! Correct link to Sensory Film Facebook Event for Monster's U. cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/14caae277f/a41e3feaa7/9d6c8c13e5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:36:22 GMT -5
Colleagues, Advocates, and Friends: We are thrilled to announce that the Special Education Advocacy Center (SEAC) is now officially open! Please take a look at our new website (www.specialeducationadvocacycenter.org) to learn more about our work and feel free to distribute our information to folks in your own networks. If you have any questions about our launch or our work, please feel free to email us at erin@specialeducationadvocacycenter.org or christine@specialeducationadvocacycenter.org. As many of you know, we will be providing Individual Advocacy and Parent Engagement services in several counties in Middle Tennessee in order to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for students with disabilities. We would love for you to get involved by sending along referrals, signing up for updates, or making a donation. You can also follow our blog on the website or join us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Special-Education-Advocacy-Center-SEAC/184432178241874?f). This day is the culmination of years of work and would not have been possible without the guidance and support of many of you. We certainly want to thank the members of our Board for their work and dedication, Wendy Tucker for initiating and driving SEAC with Erin in the early days, and the parent volunteers who have given us feedback over the past several months. We look forward to working with each of you as SEAC continues to grow and support students with disabilities and their families in the coming years! Best, Erin Richardson & Christine Sartain Christine Bagwell Sartain Co-Director for Organization & Policy Special Education Advocacy Center 4322 Harding Pike, Suite 417, PMB 87 Nashville, TN 37205 615.777.8515 www.specialeducationadvocacycenter.org
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:37:42 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:38:27 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:39:46 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:41:32 GMT -5
Departmental Initiatives: It is imperative that DIDD strives to enhance the quality of services and supports persons receive. This week, I’ve asked my staff to reflect and share their thoughts on the department’s top ten initiatives that would help us succeed in our efforts. Over the next year, we will place an increased emphasis on the following priorities:
1. Statewide Waiver Reengineering 2. Supported Employment 3. Accreditation 4. Project Titan 5. Exit Plan Compliance with Arlington Lawsuit 6. Optimal Health for Persons Supported 7. Ending CBDC/GVDC Litigation 8. Ensuring Good Communication 9. Increasing Quality of our Provider Network 10. Customer Focused Government
Please note the above priorities are not listed in order of importance. Your continued feedback as to how we can improve our service delivery system is extremely valuable. We recognize this is a collaborative undertaking. Moving forward, I will ensure everyone stays apprised of developments pertaining to these initiatives through periodic updates in Open Line.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:43:20 GMT -5
Tennessee Works: Tennessee Works, produced by the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, is a comprehensive website replete with information on employment of persons with disabilities. If interested, please visit gadd.kc.vanderbilt.edu/tennesseeworks/ and bookmark this site as a resource.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:43:55 GMT -5
Helpful Guide to Understanding Your Remittance Advice: Some providers have expressed concerns about reading and/or understanding the Bureau of TennCare Provider Remittance Advice, now considered the document of record for payments made to the providers. A remittance advice guide has been designed by TennCare to assist providers in understanding the TennCare remittance. TennCare and DIDD want to provide as many tools as necessary to make it easy for you to reconcile your payment information. This guide will help you understand the data listed on the remittance and help you determine the adjudication of your claims. The remittance advice guide is available for online viewing at: www.tn.gov/didd/newsroom/OpenLine/resources/RA%20guide%20for%20DIDD%20providers_3%206%2013%20Final.pdfIf you have any questions regarding this guide, please send them by email to DIDD_Monthly.PRA@tn.gov.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:44:57 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 16, 2013 14:50:21 GMT -5
Two years ago the Mansis were looking for answers. Their son Samuel had been diagnosed with an attention deficit disorder, and their general pediatrician also suspected autism, which affects a child’s language and social skills development. The Mansis sought out the specialized clinical and therapy services offered at the Center for Developmental Pediatrics at Siskin Children’s Institute. e2.ma/click/zwe6g/bucci/buw7jbSamuel also participated in a social skills group at the center. With the help of his loving family and caring doctors, nurses and therapists, Samuel is blossoming into a confident young man. His mom Suzanna talks about the time before Samuel’s social skills training. "Understanding nuances like humor were difficult for Samuel to grasp," Suzanna says. "Now he often turns to me after hearing a joke and says, ‘Mom, I got it!’ Those are some of life’s sweetest moments." Samuel is one of almost 2,000 children the Institute served last year through its early childhood education programs, the developmental pediatric center, the home visiting program and many other services. Because of donors like you! Your gift to the 365 Club means social development and self-confidence for kids like Samuel. The Institute is committed to providing a level of care that allows children to reach their full potential, but we can't do it without the support of generous donors like you. You can feel confident that the full amount of your donation directly supports the children and families we serve. Make a safe and secure online donation e2.ma/click/zwe6g/bucci/rmx7jb or mail your gift to: Siskin Children's Institute 365 Club Annual Fund 1101 Carter Street Chattanooga, TN 37402 Attn: Craig Ingvalson e2.ma/click/zwe6g/bucci/7ey7jb
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 21, 2013 9:20:45 GMT -5
FAQ from Autism Source: Early Intervention The Autism Society stresses the importance of intensive early intervention for young children across the autism spectrum, including those labeled with autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and other pervasive developmental disorders. Read More... support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=F49Tbf5jHEWJ-GHzmkZCvA
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 21, 2013 9:26:48 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 21, 2013 9:27:45 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 21, 2013 9:31:47 GMT -5
There is a new and exciting program at Brainerd United Methodist this summer designed specifically for children with special needs. Your special needs child will be in a small, structured classroom setting with an experienced special education teacher and assistants. The classroom will have a 2:1 student to teacher ratio, and your child will receive intensive, small group learning targeting their specific IEP goals. In addition to academic and skill-based learning opportunities, your child will also participate with peer groups for playground, gym, arts/crafts, library, and other fun summer activities. The program will be tailored to your child’s specific needs, where emphasis will be on maintaining and increasing skills learned in the previous school year and creating a consistent, structured environment beneficial for your child. This program is targeted for early elementary-aged children (grades K-3) with moderate to significant needs.
The summer program will run three days a week, Tuesdays-Thursdays, from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm for six weeks in June and July. Space is limited and will be filled on a first come first serve basis. Registration is required to secure your spot, so please contact Melissa Post if interested! Location: Brainerd United Methodist Church 4315 Brainerd Road Chattanooga, TN 37411
Dates: June 11-13, 18-20, 25-27 and July 9-11, 16-18, 23-25
Times: 8:30-1:30
Cost: $900 per student for the six week program
Contact: Melissa Post at 423-364-6159 or melissapost@gmail.com
Link to Flier for REACH Learning Program
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 24, 2013 16:53:42 GMT -5
StyleWorks fashion show benefits children of all abilities e2.ma/click/zkl7g/bucci/zgiikb The hottest spring and summer fashions are coming to a runway near you as Siskin Children’s Institute hosts its 37th annual StyleWorks fundraiser on May 7 and 8 at the Chattanooga Convention Center. The two-day event begins with Sip&Shop, a special StyleWorks preview party, on Tuesday, May 7, 5-8 p.m. A fun evening out with friends, Sip&Shop offers guests a chance to sip on cocktails, shop the Marketplace and more! Sip&Shop is sponsored by First Tennessee. StyleWorks follows on Wednesday, May 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., with a luncheon and trendsetting fashion show, highlighting all the best spring and summer clothing, footwear and accessories from Belk. The runway show features professional adult models, including special guest supermodel Cynthia Bailey, as well as youngsters who are alumni of Siskin Children’s Institute. Leslie Goff and MaryStewart Lewis are this year's co-chairs. StyleWorks is sponsored by Belk, Hamico, Inc., Blush magazine, Sunny 92.3 and WRCB Channel 3.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 24, 2013 16:55:07 GMT -5
Spring 2013 Education Conference MAY 4, 2013 – REGISTRATION CLOSES on SUNDAY APRIL 28th! ASA-ETC Spring Education Conference will be Saturday, May 4, 2013 at Kodak United Methodist Church (right off I-40 East at exit # 407): 2923 Bryan Rd., Kodak, TN 37764. This first-ever Autism-specific conference in Sevier County will feature Cherokee Health Systems clinicians and other autism professionals. Topics include: “Autism and Evidence Based Practices”, “Strategies to Prevent Problem Behaviors”, “Prioritizing Treatment Options”, “Self Management for Individuals With Developmental Disabilities”, “Sleep Interventions for Young Children with Autism”, “Food Aversions, Food Jags, and Nutrition”, and “Keeping Your Family Strong. To Register: Visit www.asaetc.org/asahome/?page_id=656®event_action=register&event_id=24 and use PayPal, or fill out attached form & mail with payment. Registration Deadline: Sunday, April 28, 2013 SEE YOU THERE!!!
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 24, 2013 16:56:19 GMT -5
WHAT IS PARTNERS? The Partners in Policymaking Leadership Institute is a leadership, advocacy and self-advocacy training program for adults with disabilities and family members of persons with disabilities from across the state, sponsored by the Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities. WHAT WILL THE SELECTED PARTNERS PARTICIPANTS DO? Attend information sessions by local and national experts in the disability field on a variety of disability-related topics, including employment, building inclusive communities and classrooms, the state and federal legislative processes, supported and independent living, assistive technology, strategies for advocates and conducting effective meetings. Partners will also: complete and report on homework assignments compose and present testimony for or against a legislative bill tour the State Capitol, and meet with a legislator have numerous opportunities to network with other individuals with disabilities and family members attend the Partners Annual Reunion Conference with representatives from 20 years of Partners in Policymaking in Tennessee WHEN WILL THE 2013-14 PARTNERS TRAINING TAKE PLACE? September, October and November, 2013, and January, February, March and April, 2014. Most Partners training weekends begin at 12 pm on Friday, and continue until 3 pm on Saturday. Accepted Partners must agree to attend all seven sessions. WHERE WILL IT TAKE PLACE? At a hotel in Middle Tennessee. WHAT DOES IT COST? There is no cost for the training, sleeping rooms or meals on-site during the Partners weekend sessions. Partners will be reimbursed for mileage to and from the Partners session approximately two weeks after each weekend training. WHO CAN ATTEND? Adults with disabilities and family members of persons with disabilities. Although each case is reviewed individually, it is not typical for a family member of a person with a disability to participate in the same Partners training year as the family member who has the disability. HOW MANY PARTNERS PARTICIPANTS WILL BE SELECTED? Thirty. An effort will be made to select a diverse group, based on type of disability, ethnicity, gender, age of person with a disability or family member, and geographical location of the applicants. HOW DOES ONE APPLY? By completing a two-page application, which can be accessed on the Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities website (http://www.tn.gov/cdd/), or by contacting Partners Director Ned Andrew Solomon at 615.532.6556, or by e-mail at ned.solomon@tn.gov . WHAT IS THE DEADLINE FOR APPLYING? All applications must be postmarked by April 30, 2013 For any other information about Partners, please contact Ned Andrew Solomon at 615.532.6556, or by e-mail at ned.solomon@tn.gov . Ned Andrew Solomon Director, Partners in Policymaking Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities Davy Crockett Tower, 1st Floor 500 James Robertson Parkway Nashville, TN 37243 615.532.6556 ned.solomon@tn.gov
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 24, 2013 16:59:14 GMT -5
LifeTime Promise Support Group for parents who have children with disabilities is forming in BLOUNT COUNTY.
For more info, contact: Gretchen Kidd 865-742-2360 lifetimepromisegroup@gmail.com
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 24, 2013 17:06:00 GMT -5
Advances in Autism Research NIH released their report on the most important findings in autism research for 2012. Give this a good read through to help you keep up with the most current data . It'll be good pre-preparation for the conference too! cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/5ab9d2d4b7/a41e3feaa7/cf5b4eaee1Parent developing a toddler playgroup program After some discussion on our CAC Facebook group, Elizabeth Thornburgh and some other parents are looking to develop a program for parents who have very young kids with ASD have a simple program that provides a structured environment for children ages 2-4 years with special needs that emphasize gross motor, cognitive, and socialization skills, and allow other parents and caregivers to bond with their toddler. We'll keep you posted on how that goes. cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/5ab9d2d4b7/a41e3feaa7/2fd79f536c
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 24, 2013 17:07:53 GMT -5
AUTISM-RELATED EVENTS
4th Annual Community Conference on Autism When: Friday, April 26th from 8:00am to 3:40pm. Where: Chattanooga Convention Center Cost: $35 for individual, $55 for family, $100 for clinicians seeking CEUs. REGISTRATION CLOSED.
Teen Asperger’s Group When: April 26th at 6:30 Where: CiCi’s Pizza in E. Brainerd For more info: contact Beckie Truex rebecca.p.truex@epbfi
H.O.P.E When: Thursday, May 2nd, noon to 1pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Ave, suite 100 Helping Other Parents Excel (H.O.P.E.) is for families who have members with autism spectrum disorders. We meet the first & third Thursdays of every month at noon. Our mission is to provide a place for people to share positive experiences and ideas and when we can, offer support and suggest solutions for some of the difficult times. Please feel free to brown bag your lunch and drinks and eat while we meet.
H.O.P.E When: Monday, May 6th, 6pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Ave, suite 100 This is an evening version of the support group. We've gotten feedback that some families saying they want to attend HOPE but can't make the daytime meet-ups. We're trying this later time for a while and see if we can get a steady evening-time group. See the H.O.P.E. FB event and let us know if you can make it.
Autism Workshop Series When: Tuesday, May 7, 6:30 to 7:30pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue Topic: Managing Behaviors Speaker: Alyce Benson, LCSW
Greater Chattanooga Aspies Semi-monthly Meeting When: May 9th, 6-7pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue, suite 100 We've been growing membership! At this meeting we can discuss what we'd like to do during the summer. Please feel free to bring a dessert. Adults with Aspergers or high-functioning autism welcome! 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!
Sensory Film - Iron Man 3 When: May 11, 10am to noon. Where: UEC Theatre 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd, Cleveland (exit 20 junction on hwy 75) Cost: $5 per person. The Theater (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! Correct link to Sensory Film Facebook Event for Iron Man III.
H.O.P.E When: Thursday, May 16th, noon to 1pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Ave, suite 100 Helping Other Parents Excel (H.O.P.E.) is for families who have members with autism spectrum disorders. We meet the first & third Thursdays of every month at noon. Our mission is to provide a place for people to share positive experiences and ideas and when we can, offer support and suggest solutions for some of the difficult times. Please feel free to brown bag your lunch and drinks and eat while we meet.
ClubSib When: Sat, May 18th, 11-2pm Where: Chattanooga Autism Center What: ClubSib is for K-6th grade kids who have siblings with ASD and other disabilities and would like a program of their own. It is a drop-off program and the kids will get to do activities and hang out.
4th Annual "Get your Mow Down" lawnmower race When: Saturday, May 18th, 3pm to 5pm Where: 10516 Hwy 58, Ooltewah, TN 37363 Cost: $5 per person. Kids under 7 or kids with autism are free. The Scenic City Lawn Mower Racing Association puts on several races each year but it always reserves one as a fundraiser for the CAC. Last year they raised $720. Our goal is to get the word out so they get a big crowd turn out and watch professional racers race tricked out lawn-mowers up to 60 mph. It's a hoot! Gates open at 1pm. Bring a lawn chair!
CAC Spirit night at Chick-fil-A When: Thursday, May 23, 4-9pm Where: Chick-fil-A at 1804 Gunbarrel Road, Chattanooga What: Games, give-aways, and fun for the whole family. Come show your support, get to meet new people, and let's celebrate our community. 10% of the profits Chick-fil-A makes that night will go to the CAC!
Autism Workshop Series When: Tuesday, June 4, 6:30 to 7:30pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue Topic: Sensory Integration Speaker: Mary Mullins, OT
Sensory Film - Monster's U When: June 29, 10am to noon. Where: UEC Theatre 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd, Cleveland (exit 20 junction on hwy 75) Cost: $5 per person. The Theater (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!
Chattanooga Autism Center Tel: (423) 531-6961 Fax: (423) 521-8094 1400 McCallie Avenue, Suite 100, Chattanooga TN 37404
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 24, 2013 17:09:08 GMT -5
Please join us for the 2013 Revolutionary Leaders Live Video Webinar Series! The highly esteemed panel of speakers will share their knowledge and insight about specific topics, stories, and best practices they have discovered through their work in the disability field. This year's Revolutionary Leaders include: Rachel Simon, Bill Baldini, Judith Snow, Peter Leidy, Al Condeluci, Marca Bristo, Michael Kendrick, Val Bradley, Jack Pearpoint, Linda Kahn, Eric Rosenthal and Dohn Hoyle. Dates: 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29, 6/5, 6/12, 6/19, 6/26, 7/10, 7/17. Time: 1-2:30 p.m., Eastern. Become a Host Site and Share the Experience with your Friends and Colleagues! Register at 2013revolutionaryleaders.eventbrite.com $18/session or $175 for the 11 speakers series. The webinars are all closed captioned
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 28, 2013 9:19:35 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 28, 2013 9:22:20 GMT -5
Legislative Wrap Up: The General Assembly adjourned last Friday, April 19th. The fast-paced legislative session ended in April for the first time since 1999. Congratulations to Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey, Speaker Beth Harwell and the entire General Assembly for an efficient and successful session. I would like to extend my personal thanks to those legislators who sponsored, co-sponsored or worked with sponsors on legislation to advance DIDD’s mission. My sincere appreciation goes to: Senator Becky Massey, Senator Randy McNally, Senator Doug Overbey, Speaker Pro Tempore Bo Watson, Senator Ken Yager and Representative Mike Carter, Representative Andrew Farmer, Representative Richard Floyd, and Representative Dennis Powers. The following is a list bills they sponsored or played a role in passing during this past legislative session: HB 0531 by *Powers ( SB 0675 by *Yager) Disabled Persons - As introduced, enacts "Lynn's Law" and defines abuse or neglect of an adult to include a caretaker who knowingly abandons an adult if the caretaker knows the adult is unable to care for himself without assistance. The bill passed the House as Amended 92-0; Amended Bill passed the Senate 32-0 and is enrolled and ready for signatures. The HB 1097 by *Floyd ( SB 1223 by *Watson) Hospitals and Health Care Facilities - As introduced, authorizes certain ICF/MR beds to be filled with persons from department of intellectual and developmental disabilities' waiting list after the death of persons occupying the bed who came from a developmental center. An amendment was placed on the bill that requires DIDD to establish a process to determine who from the waiting list will go into the private ICF beds once they become available. The bill passed the House as Amended 94-0; Amended Bill passed the Senate 29-0 and has been signed by the Governor. The bill shall take effect July 1, 2013. HB 0692 by *Farmer ( SB 0555 by *Overbey) Guardians and Conservators - As introduced, revises various provisions relative to court appointed guardians and conservators. Under the bill uniform procedures would be established for placing someone in a conservatorship on an emergency basis. A person being placed under the emergency rules would have to be notified within 48 hours of the action and a hearing would have to take place within five days. The Tennessee Bar Association recommended the changes after a series of statewide hearings. The bill passed the House as Amended 93-0; Amended Bill passed the Senate 32-0. Once signed by the Governor, the bill shall take effect July 1, 2013.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 28, 2013 9:27:28 GMT -5
Employment First (EFLSMP) Grant Consultation Begins in Tennessee: I’m happy to report that the Department’s Director of Provider Services, Jordan Allen and newly hired Director of Employment and Day Services, Amy Gonzalez, spent the majority of last week touring the State in support of our Employment First initiative. Nancy Gurney, the first of three nationally recognized consultants commissioned by DIDD and supported by the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), arrived last week and visited with the three Provider agencies selected to lead our change efforts across the state. As I’ve mentioned, DIDD seeks to increase competitive and integrated employment opportunities for all persons living with a disability. This effort will encompass the introduction of several simultaneous strategies involving policy reform, provider training in skills like Customized Employment, departmental collaboration with Vocational Rehabilitation and coordinated efforts with academic leaders in our State. Additionally, as facilitated by Ms. Gurney, financial conversion strategies for agencies still supporting segregated Day Service environments in facility and workshop based settings are addressed in a systematic and fiscally attainable strategy. Over the course of the last year this Department has pledged a renewed and revitalized intensity to ensure that the State of Tennessee is not only doing our part, but is recognized as a national leader in the area of employment services for our stakeholders. Our commitment is reaffirmed in the work being done by Ms. Gurney and the dedication of the entire staff bodies at SRVS, Rochelle Center and the Orange Grove Center. My staff reports that these initial consultation sessions were intense but productive. Ms. Gurney found the executive staff at each agency to be skilled and energized by the opportunity to lead our State in employment outcomes. Overall, the week materialized into a great beginning and will serve as the first new bricks in a foundation of strength and success for our community. Next steps will include the introduction of Michael Callahan, expert in Customized Employment, and Lisa Mills, Medicaid Waiver consultant and renowned employment services guru. Michael will hold his initial sessions with each of our Provider partners in mid-May while Lisa arrives to work directly with this Department in late-May. We look forward to Michael’s arrival, Nancy’s continued analysis and assistance, Lisa’s policy expertise and this Departments continued commitment to ensure that we provide the very best to our valued customers and continue to push tirelessly forward in the direction of their advancement and success.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 28, 2013 9:28:43 GMT -5
DOJ and Disability Employment: The Department of Justice has recently announced that they have joined the lawsuit against John Kitzhaber. The lawsuit states that Oregon is allegedly violating the Americans with Disabilities Act by failing to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have expressed a desire to work in the community. Those individuals have been placed to work in sheltered workshops with intolerable working conditions and wages that are below the minimum wage. In addition to these factors, the lawsuit maintains that this environment provides little or no contact with persons that are not disabled and thus fails to provide to opportunity for integration into a community. DIDD, along with our partners, are working diligently to ensure that people with disabilities who are currently working in sheltered workshops are provided the education, experience and exposure to make an informed choice about their daytime activities. The goal is to support individuals who have expressed a desire to work in the community by providing opportunities to realize that goal. Each person will receive an opportunity to work in the community and become a truly active and valued member of their community. People with disabilities deserve to have a voice and choice in deciding where they would like to work and the ability to receive a sustainable and adequate rate of pay.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Apr 28, 2013 9:33:48 GMT -5
Federal Department of Health and Human Services Audit: Also on April 18th, Tennessee received the final report from the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (HHS/OIG) concerning costs in the Tennessee system of supports for people we serve, specifically at state operated Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/IID). The time period for this audit was state fiscal years 2009-10 and 2010-11 (July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2011). Tennessee was the fourth system reviewed by HHS/OIG auditors in a series of audits of systems of services for people with intellectual disabilities and previous reports included findings that included recommendations to refund a substantial amount of federal funds. Below, are links to the three prior audits reviewing systems in New York and New Jersey. From these, you should have an idea what bad audits are like. oig.hhs.gov/oas/reports/region2/21001027.pdf - New York (August 2012) oig.hhs.gov/oas/reports/region2/21001027.pdfoig.hhs.gov/oas/reports/region2/21101029.pdf - New York (May 2012) oig.hhs.gov/oas/reports/region2/21101029.pdfoig.hhs.gov/oas/reports/region2/21001029.pdf- New Jersey (April 2012) oig.hhs.gov/oas/reports/region2/21001029.pdfFederal auditors began their field work in Tennessee last June and have had significant communication with staff at DIDD, the Bureau of TennCare, and the Comptroller of the Treasury throughout the last half of 2012 and into early spring of 2013. Unlike the previous reports on other states, this report did not include any recommendations requiring state reimbursement of funds owed the federal government. I am very pleased that this in-depth assessment of costs in our system by an expert team of federal evaluators validated that these costs are calculated in accordance with federal requirements and that Tennessee has made substantial efforts to reduce costs in the system. The official report is here. www.tn.gov/didd/newsroom/OpenLine/resources/HHS OIG Audit 041813.pdf
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Post by renaebaldini on May 22, 2013 5:28:10 GMT -5
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