Note:
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Dear Parents,
Hello, my name is Peter Davis, and I am a Brown
University medical student. I am currently working with
Family Voices at the Rhode Island Parent Information
Network and Rhode Island KIDS COUNT to update an issue
brief on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). This brief
will provide legislators, policy makers, and other
officials with important information and recommendations
about the prevalence of ASD and medical, educational,
and social needs of children with ASD and their families
in Rhode Island. So that I can learn firsthand about the
experience of raising a child with ASD and include in
the brief the issues that concern you most, I am asking
for your input and assistance.
If you are the parent or guardian of a child with ASD
(such as Autism, Asperger syndrome, or pervasive
developmental disorder-not otherwise specified [PDD/NOS])
and you would be interested in participating in a focus
group about your experience, or if you would prefer to
have me visit you and your child at home or another
place convenient for you, please contact me at the email
or phone number below.
You may contact me directly by e-mail or telephone
(contact information below) or Barbara Torres at RIPIN
by e-mail
torres@ripin.org
or telephone (727-4144 or 800-464-3399) for more
information or to get involved in the project.
Thank you very much for your help and consideration! I
look forward to hearing from many of you!
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Public Forums on the Concerns of People
with Disabilities and their Families
Confirmed Public Forum Locations Date & Time Host Area
Covered
Barrington Public Library’s Gallery, 281 County Road,
Barrington Monday July 21st 1:30 – 3 PM Statewide
Independent Living Council Bristol County
Independence Square II, Independence Way, Kingston Route 136 just West of URI campus Tuesday July 22nd 3 – 5 PM Rhodes to Independence
Washington (South) County Warwick Public Library, 600 Sandy Lane, Warwick Wednesday July 23rd 2 – 4 PM Ocean State Center for Independent Living
Kent County Cumberland Library, 1464 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland Thursday July 24th 10 – 11:30 AM PARI Independent Living Center Northern RI
RI Department of Administration Conference Room B One Capitol Hill, Prov. Friday July 25th 4 – 6 PM RI Department of Health Greater Providence
Middletown Public
Library’s Community Rm. 700 West Main Road, Middletown
Thursday July 24th 3 – 5 PM Looking Upwards Newport
County
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ASDads Returns!
APRI is bringing back a support group is for and run by
fathers of children with autism spectrum disorders. The
group will meet on a monthly basis, on the first Monday
of each month.
The first meeting will be Monday, July 7 at 7PM at the
office of The Autism Project of RI. Mr. Dino Brantalino
will be the moderator.
ASDads will focus on issues that are of concern to
fathers who have children who are diagnosed with autism.
Some topics to be covered are:
Education of ASD children (IEP etc.)
Financial Planning (special needs trusts, college, SSI,
SSDI etc.)
Emotional strains on relationships and families
Identifying services and resources for fathers
Information on meeting times, special presentations and
outings will be listed on
http://www.theautismproject.org.
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The 10th Annual Autism Summer
Institute
Emotion, Behavior, and Belonging: New Perspectives on
Including Children and Youth with Autism Spectrum
Differences in Schools and Communities
Dates: August 11-14, 2008 Time: MTW - 8:30am to
3:30pm, Th - 8:30am to 12pm
Registration Fee: Professionals: $399 Parents, Full-Time
Students, Self-Advocates: $299 Keynote(s) only: $30 each
Groups: $349 - Groups of three or more qualify for the
discounted group rate (subject to verification).
Location: Holloway Commons, University of New Hampshire,
Durham, NH. Call 603.228.2084 to register or
visit
http://www.iod.unh.edu
Who Should Attend: The Autism Summer Institute is
designed for, and will benefit, university students,
individuals with ASD and their families, teachers,
paraprofessionals, speech and language pathologists,
occupational therapists, physical therapists, school
administrators, guidance counselors, psychologists,
school-family teams (group discount available), and
others.
Professional Development and Course Credit: All
participants will receive a Certificate of
Participation. The Autism Summer Institute qualifies for
25 Staff Development Credits/Hours. Participants may
earn four (4) academic credits by attending the Autism
Summer Institute and registering for the associated
class in the Fall 2008 semester. Please contact the
course instructor, Cheryl M. Jorgensen, Ph.D., at
cheryl.jorgensen@unh.edu
for more information and permission to register.
Keynote Presenters: Monday, August 11 - 9:00-10:30am -
Amanda Baggs, Tuesday, August 12 - 9:00-10:30am -
CarolAnn Edscorn, Wednesday, August 13 - 9:00-10:30am -
Ros Blackburn
Presented by The New Hampshire Resource Center on Autism
Spectrum Disorders
In Cooperation With: Advocates Building Lasting
Equality in New Hampshire, Asperger's Association of New
England, The Autism National Committee, The Autism
Society of New Hampshire, New Hampshire Department of
Education, New Hampshire Department of Health and Human
Services, Bureau of Developmental Services, New
Hampshire Developmental Disabilities Council, New
Hampshire Parent Information Center
The goal of the Autism Summer Institute is to provide
strength-based perspectives about students with Autism
Spectrum Differences (ASD) to improve the quality of
education in inclusive settings. Participants will gain
skills and knowledge that will help support the full
participation of students with ASD in their schools and
communities. This Institute offers a unique combination
of keynote presentations and work groups. The full
Institute registration fee includes participation in all
four days' activities, continental breakfast, lunch
(Monday-Wednesday only), materials, and parking. A
separate fee has been established for those interested
in attending one or more keynote presentations only.
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Dighton- Rehoboth Pop Warner Cheerleading
Signups
D-R Pop Warner will be offering a challenger league
for any girls or boys interested in cheering.
The challenger league will offer a unique opportunity
for children with special needs to learn the
fundamentals of cheer, participate in games and possibly
perform as an exhibition at the competition.
If you would like more information or are interested in
signing your child up please contact
Sue Wood 508.669.5904,
D-Rfootballandcheer@comcast.net
The season starts on August 1
Games are played on Saturday afternoons or Sunday
mornings depending on field availably
Registration plus calendar fundraiser $60.00 plus cheer
accessories (sneakers,bodysuit,bloomers)
http://www.drfalcons.com
Grants Available for Families
Struggling with Child Health-Related Expenses
Deadline: Open
The United Healthcare Children's Foundation (UHCCF) has
announced that new grants are available to help children
who need critical health care treatment, services, or
equipment not covered or not fully covered by their
parents' health benefit plans.
UHCCF provides grants to families to help pay for child
health care services such as speech therapy, physical
therapy, occupational therapy sessions, prescriptions,
and medical equipment such as wheelchairs, and
eyeglasses.
Parents and legal guardians may apply for grants of up
to $5,000 each for child medical services and equipment
by completing an online application at the UHCCF Web
site.
To be eligible for a grant, children must be 16 years of
age or younger. Families must meet economic guidelines,
reside in the United States, and be covered by a
commercial health benefit plan. (Not available to
Medicaid/SCHIP recipients).
Go to http://uhccf.org/ for more details.
Gretchen Godfrey,
Research Coordinator,
PACER Center,
(952) 838-
Champions for Children with Disabilities
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Swinging for A Cause
This coming August 23rd will mark a proud day for the
town of Stonington , CT, as they will play host to the
first annual Autism Speaks Charity Golf Tournament. The
event, scheduled to be held at Pequot Golf Course, will
donate all proceeds towards Autism research. The day
will feature more than golf with a variety of
raffle prizes, food & fun.
If anyone is interested in volunteering, donating,
sponsoring or playing, please contact Andy Bessette
(tournament coordinator) at
cooperscrewgolf@yahoo.com.
There is always room for more!
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CALL FOR VISUAL ART ENTRIES - 2D, 3D & time based media (video, film
etc.) VSA arts of Rhode Island seeks submissions of visual artworks
from young artists with disabilities, ages 16-25, for "Green Light"
a national juried exhibition sponsored with assistance from
Volkwagen. No entry fee; 15 finalists; $60,000 in awards. Deadline:
Friday, July 11, 2008. Submission process through CaFe at
www.callforentry. org Theme: A green light signals "GO!" and
permission to proceed. What revs you up as an artist and moves you
to create? What signals the spark of creativity? Imagine that you
receive a signal to drive your own future. How does art give you
permission to be who you are? Consider the infinite possibilities
that art (or creativity) provides. Artwork may illustrate actual
aspects of what signals your creative motivations such as the
physical world or personal discoveries. Abstract work that relates
to feelings or emotions is also encouraged. Work might also reflect
your experience of living with a disability and its role in shaping
or transforming your work. For more information email:
programs@vsartsri.org or view detailed guidelines linked
at:
http://www.vsartsri.org .
THANK YOU, if additional information is needed, contact:
VSA arts of Rhode Island
500 Prospect Street
Pawtucket, RI 02860 tel & tty: 401-725-0247
fax: 401-725-0397
email: programs@vsartsri. org
web site:
http://www.vsartsri.org
"Working to create a society where people with disabilities can
learn through, participate in, and enjoy the arts."
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2008 ASA National Conference to be Held in Orlando, Florida, July 9-12, 2008, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
Mark your calendar! The 2008 ASA National Conference Registration will open online at http://www.autism-society.org/ conference in December.
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Future Horizons presents Two of the Most Respected Authorities in the Autism Field
Dixon Online Conference
July 17 and July 18, 2008
DR. TEMPLE GRANDIN
Dr. Grandin will share insights from her new book: Autism &
Asperger's - The Way I See It and offer practical strategies.
DR. TONY ATTWOOD
Dr. Attwood's all-day presentation will explore cognitive
understanding and social relationships.
Also Featuring Exciting Presentations on BEHAVIOR STRATEGIES with
Maria Wheeler and CLASSROOM INCLUSION TECHNIQUES THAT WORK with
Sheila Wagner
You can attend during the conference and you will have access to
watch again anytime in the next week!
CEU credits for ASHA and APA members as well as a certificate sent
to educators who can use it to apply for credit in their own
jurisdictions.
Register online at
http://www.FHautism.com
You may also register by calling Future Horizons toll-free at
1-800-489-0727
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Save the Date!
AUTISM SPEAKS TM SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND 2008 WALK NOW FOR AUTISM
Kick-Off Luncheon
Sunday, July 20, 2008
12:00* – 2:00PM
Pawtucket Country Club
900 Armistice Boulevard
Pawtucket, Rhode Island 02861
*Registration begins 11:30AM*
Please join us for a very informative and motivating event to learn
about
how you can participate in our upcoming
6th Annual Southern New England Walk Now for Autism
(to be held Sunday, September 21 2008 at Colt State Park – Bristol,
RI)
Hear up to date information about our new walk location and updates
regarding
Autism Speaks involvement in Awareness, Science, Family Services,
and Government Advocacy.
RSVP by July 15, 2008 to
Autism Speaks – 85 School Street, Suite 100 – Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: 617-924-3300 Fax: 617-924-3311
Email:
southernnewengland@autismspeaks.org
Website:
http://www.autismspeaks.org
http://www.walknowforautism.org/sne
©2008 Autism Speaks Inc. Autism Speaks and Autism Speaks It’s Time
To Listen & Design
are trademarks owned by Autism Speaks Inc. All rights reserved.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
July 27, 2008
3rd ANNUAL PUZZLE RIDE FOR AUTISM
Frances Farm – 151 County St., Rehoboth, MA
(Rain or Shine)
Registration begins at 10:30am -- Ride Starts at 12:30pm
Motorcycle enthusiasts are invited to take part in this
fun event. Registration begins are 10:30AM and the ride will begin
at 12:30PM. Please note that helmets are required. The event also
offers plenty for individuals who are not interested in riding. At
1:30PM there will be live music, a buffet, a 50/50 raffle, door
prizes and a mileage pool.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following locations:
Frerichs Farm, Warren, RI 401.245.8245 or Nicole’s Hair Design,
Somerset, MA 508-678-6300
Tickets can also be purchased at the event.
Any questions, please contact Pat Guida Salisbury 401-578-0039 or
mary@theautismproject.org
-
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September 20th -
Macy's Shop for a Cause
Make a $5.00 donation and receive a ticket to save 20%
on all regular, sale and clearance items (some
exceptions may apply). All ticket sales will benefit the
Autism Project of RI. To purchase tickets, please call
401.785.2666.
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Southern New England Walk Now for Autism
Sunday - September 21, 2008
Colt State Park - Bristol, RI
Our walk this year will be on Sunday September 21, 2008.
Registration will be at 9:30am and the walk at 11am. We are excited
to announce that our walk site this year has changed to Colt State
Park in Bristol, RI. For more information please go to
http://www.riparks.com/colt.htm
We are also excited to be pairing up again this year with CAT
Country WCTK in Providence. Stay tuned for updates on last years
families and information about the 6 new families this year!
To register for the walk please go to
www.walknowforautism.org/sne
Interested in volunteering on walk day? Please email
southernnewnengland@autismspeaks.org
for more information.
This coming August 23rd will mark a proud day for the town of
Stonington , CT, as they will play host to the first annual Autism
Speaks Charity Golf Tournament. The event, scheduled to be held at
Pequot Golf Course, will donate all proceeds towards Autism
research. The day will feature more than golf – with a variety of
raffle prizes, food & fun.
If anyone is interested in volunteering, donating, sponsoring or
playing, please contact Andy Bessette (tournament coordinator) at
cooperscrewgolf@yahoo.com. There is always room for more!
Thank you again for your support as we Walk Now for Autism! Please
do not hesitate to contact the Autism Speaks New England Chapter
Office for further information. We are here for you!
888-627-6227 or by email
southernnewengland@autismspeaks.org
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AUTISM CLASSROOM CONNECTIONS EVALUATION
Autism Classroom Connections (ACC) is a series of four multimedia interventions designed to educate typically developing students about Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in elementary and middle school classrooms. Each video-based intervention is designed specifically to educate elementary or middle school populations about autism or Asperger Syndrome and high functioning autism. Teachers, parents, or any other advocate of a child with ASD can easily implement the ACC intervention in the classroom. All intervention packages include one video (approximately 15 minutes) and a facilitator’s guide with instructions on how to conduct the presentation, along with related classroom activities and discussions.
Please see link to enroll in the evaluation or for more information: http://www.danya.com/autismvision.asp
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TUNE IN TO FAMILY411 ON WHJJ, 920 AM FROM 4-5 PM ON SATURDAY!
Each week we will explore a different family issue with health, education, and parenting experts and parents who have first hand experience with their own children.
Get answers to questions like: » How do I talk with my children's teacher? » How much is too much TV? » How do I know if my child is ready for kindergarten? » Is my child getting the most from his education program or from her visit to the pediatrician?
You can also listen live on the Internet by visiting www.920whjj.com
http://www.920whjj.com/pages/Family411.htm
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RHODE ISLAND PARENT INFORMATION NETWORK FAMILY POLICY TEAM
Attention All Families: WE NEED YOU!
Join the Family Voices Family Policy Team at RIPIN. We will support you to make a difference!
RIte Care and other public programs may be in danger of serious budget cuts
Your voices may be able to save them!
Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) is dedicated to advocating for families and public programs, BUT WE CANNOT DO IT ALONE!!!!!!
If you are interested in helping RIPIN support state programs that help children and families, please call or email:
Amanda Eyes, Family Support Specialist, eyes@ripin.org, 401-727-4144, ext. 145.
Spanish-speaking contact: Barbara Torres, Family Voices, torres@ripin.org, 401-727-4144, ext. 161,
Parents who speak all languages are welcome to call. We will accommodate to the best of our ability.
Rhode Island Parent Information Network, 175 Main Street , Pawtucket, RI 02860
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Sept 6 & 7, 2008
Frerichs Farm Pumpkin Palooza
43 Kinnicut Avenue, Warren, RI
*Farm Fun Day for Autism on Saturday, Sept. 6th
All proceeds from this day go to the Autism Project
Have fun exploring the farm… visit the Western Town, Scarecrow
Factory, Corn and Hay mazes and take a magical Pumpkin Coach Ride
Call (401) 245-8245 for more information