September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
Please join us, Thursday, September 3rd., 2009 at our new meeting place:
Myers Park Baptist Church to~
Build on what Motivates Your Child!! With Mary B. Moore
Behavior is one of the keys to success for our children and motivation plays a big role in determining behavior. Helping our children manage their behavior is a life long task. Our speaker is a clinician with Southeast Psychological and experienced in leading presentations, as well as, autism specific support groups for parents. Re- gardless of your child’s age or the degree by which autism effects him (or her), this should be a valuable meeting. As always, our meetings are free and open to anyone affected by autism, whether personally, as a family member, or as a professional. Doors open at 7:00 Announcements– 7:10 Speaker – 7-15-8:30
**Free Childcare is Available** Child-
care is available for the first 12 children registered. Those not registered will be turned away. We must insure the safety of all children under our care during the meeting, so we must know how many will be in attendance before each meeting. To register for childcare, contact Kathy Sny- der by Tues. Sept. 1st @ 704-904-0456 or [email protected] .
Inside this Issue– available @ www.asncmeck.org. President’s Note 2 Calendar 3 ASNC– News 4-6 After School Options 7 Meeting Location: - Myers Park Baptist is located at 1900 Queens Rd., ASNC-MCC News 8 Charlotte– 28207, across the street from Queens University on Selwyn Ave. ASNC-MCC & Charlotte Rugby Club 9-10 Parking is available on the streets in the evening. Enter the church grounds at the brick and wrought iron stairs behind the sanctuary, then follow the County wide recreation opportunities 11 sidewalk to the Education Building. Someone will assist you in finding our Parent Education Opportunities 12-13 meeting room on the second floor and our childcare room. Ruth Fuller Scholarship Winner 14 Autism Research 15 Opportunities to Help with Research 16 1 Membership Form Last pg
September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
President’s Note:
Welcome back! Over the summer, many changes have happened, both at school and here with ASNC-MCC. If you are reading this on-line, you are one of the fortunate members of our community who has the luxury of having computer access. You may be one of the very fortunate ones who can print the newsletter so that you can read it more easily and carry it with you to read at your leisure somewhere other than your house.
The move to an on-line newsletter was a difficult decision to make; however, by trimming our budget of printing costs, we will have more funds available for projects such as teacher grants and scholarships for autism related training. This is one way our organization sets itself apart from others in our area: we raise money to support families , children, and professionals locally.
For some of you, we realize our actions will cause an inconvenience as you do not have access to the internet. If this is so, please contact me at the phone number listed below and I will mail a printed copy of the newsletter to your home. You will most likely reach my answering machine, so please speak slowly and clearly providing your name, phone num- ber, and that you would like to receive a copy of the newsletter. I will return your call to get your address. We are hopeful that as he economy returns, we can begin printing newsletters in volume as we did in the past. In the meantime, we hope you can understand our reasoning and support our actions.
For those of you with internet, we will continue to alert you each month when our newsletter is posted if you are on our e-mail blast list. If you are not signed up, you can sign up through our website. If that does not work for you, please send me an e-mail at the address below, and I will add your information. With e-mail blasts, you will receive information on a weekly basis about upcoming events, legislative updates, surveys regarding your need for services, and other im- portant information. You will also be alerted each time a new newsletter has been posted on our website..
In the coming months, we will unveil our new website. Though the address will be the same, you will find that it is a use- ful tool to access supports offered by our chapter and links to other helpful groups that serve our families locally. We are excited about the coming year and hopeful that as a group the change will benefit everyone. Please let us know how the changes have effected you.
Already we have begun some collaborative efforts with other groups to offer you opportunities. At the end of this month we will join Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools and Autism Speaks in presenting two highly regarded and nationally known speakers that provide important insight for anyone involved with autism. Additionally we will be partnering with Charlotte Rugby Club to provide families a venue to practice public behavior skills. To us, this action shows the com- mitment to our families despite the challenges we have faced due to budget cuts. These are challenging economic times, but we are finding a way to provide you important information by relying on others who are able to partner for your benefit. We are hopeful that these partnerships build stronger safety nets for all of you and create a stronger bond with those we join with to support you.
Nancy Nestor, ASNC-MCC President : 704-545-1902 : [email protected]
ASNC-MCC Board Members: ASNC-MCC Mission Statement: Nancy Nestor– President Christy Koury– Secretary Mike Snyder / Barbara Imboden: Treasurers John Cavanaugh– Public Relations The Autism Society of North Susan Wild– Recreation Bill Farnsworth– Fundraising Carolina is committed to provid- Kathy Snyder– Fundraising/ Puzzle Shop/ Childcare Lora Caudill– CFAC Representative ing support and promoting op- Lindsay Kluttz– Monthly Meeting Coordinator John Brown– FACT Representative portunities which enhance the Jeff McGunegle– Teacher Liaison Isabel Owen– AFC Representative lives of individuals within the Dr. Joyce Lum– TEACCH Representative Kelly Langston– Public Relations autism spectrum.
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
September Events: Sept. 19 (S) ~ASNC Sensory Friendly Films: Cloudy with a Sept. 2nd. (W): Super Social Skills Group for Chance of Meatballs; 10:00 AM; Concord Mills 24; 2421 Concord 5-6 year olds with Asperger Syndrome; South- Mills Blvd.; Concord, 28027 east Psych. Cost- $45./session for 8 weeks; call Lisa: 704– 971-4791. Sept. 22nd (T)- South Coffee: 9:00 AM Café Carolina~
Sept. 3rd. (Th): ASNC-MCC Monthly Support Mtg. Providence/485; 5361 Ballantyne Commons; Ste 200; Charlotte 28277. RSVP~ [email protected]; 704-545-1902 Build on What Motivates Your Child with Mary B. Moore. LCSW of Southeast Psychological; 7-9:00 PM Sept. 23rd (W) Paula Kluth Presentation on Inclusion Myers Park Baptist; 1900 Queens Rd. Charlotte, 28207. for Parents; 7– 8:30 PM; CPCC Harris Campus Conference Center 3210 CPCC Harris Campus Conference Center; Char- Sept. 6th. (S) SHINE– Church from People with ASD; Hun- lotte 28208; Registration– Check after Labor Day at tersville United Methodist; 14005 Stumptown Rd. 2:30– 2:50; www.walknowforautism.org/Carolinas Rev. Monica Humpal~ 704-875-1156 or [email protected]. Sept. 25th (F)- 27th Day out with Thomas~ Hero of the Rails; North Carolina Transportation Museum;411 S. Salisbury Sept. 8th. - Dec. 1st (T) : Adapted Sports with Coach Dan Ave. Spencer NC; Take a 25 minute train ride with a full sized Vizzini; 3:15– 4:00; at the JCC; 5007 Providence Rd. Charlotte Thomas the Tank Engine and Meet Sir Topham Hatt. Enjoy 28226. Call 704-366-5007 to learn more. storytelling, Live Music, Build with Lego, Duplo Bricks and more. For more information go to : www.nctrans.org Sept. 10th—Dec. 3 (Th); Special Yoga with Nancy Dill; 3:15– 4:00; at the JCC; ; 5007 Providence Rd. Charlotte 28226. Call Sept. 26th (Sa) FACT Science Saturday with Discovery 704-366-5007 to learn more. Place: 10:00 - 11:30 AM Myers Park Baptist Church; 2001
Sept. 12th. - (Sa) : Family Outing at Charlotte Rugby Match; Selwyn Avenue, Charlotte 28207. $25 (Some Scholarships 1:00; at Charlotte Rugby Club; 2911 Bellhaven Circle, Charlotte available). To register, call Terri Ward at Discovery Place-704- 372-6261, ext. 309 28214. Contact Alli Jamil ([email protected]) to RSVP or for more details. Sept. 26th (Sa)~ASNC Sensory Friendly Films: Cloudy Sept. 15th (T) Asperger Sibling Group; Southeast Psycho- with a Chance of Meatballs; 10:00 AM; Concord Mills 24; logical; 5-6:00; The group is for siblings of Asperger’s children 2421 Concord Mills Blvd.; Concord, 28027– Second showing. needing support and guidance. Kids only group. Cost : $20 per Sept. 26th (Sa) Barbara Bloomfield in-service for par- session for 8 sessions ($160 due 1 week prior to the first session) Contact: Lauren King at [email protected] or call ents on the use of visual teaching strategies and the use of aug- (704) 970-4791 mentative communication and ASD. 1-3:00 PM; location to be determined; Registration– Check after Labor Day at Sept. 15th (T) Reading to Read: The Language & Literacy www.walknowforautism.org/Carolinas Connection. 6:00pm - 8:00pm. Covenant Presbyterian Church; 1000 E. Morehead Street, Charlotte, NC 28204. $50 per family . Sept. 30th (W) - TEACCH Parent Forums: Introduction Register online at www.speechgarden.org/reading-to-read- to TEACCH; Problem Solving with Written Strategies literacy-development.html with HFA, and Understanding Educational Programs
Sept. 16th (W): Downtown Coffee; 11:30ish– at the Non- ( IEP); morning sessions; Charlotte TEACCH-5701 Ex- ecutive Center Dr. Call 704-563-4103 to register. descriptive Coffee Shoppe- right on the corner of S. Tryon and MLK Jr. Blvd beside the Visitor Info Center and the Charlotte Sept. 30th (W) Monkey Joe's FREE Special Needs Night Chamber of Commerce. Feel free to drop in during your lunch for kids 12 and under. 6:15-7:15 p.m. at all four Monkey hour. RSVP [email protected] or 704-545-1902. Joe's of Greater Charlotte. Go to: www.monkeyjoes.com . Sept. 17th (Th): Parents of Newly Diagnosed children with Autism; ~ Free, RSVP a must. No childcare. 9:30-12; ASNC; call Advocates: 704- 894-9678 or npop- ****ASNC-MCC does not promote any activity or [email protected]. event. We simply offer information. Please note it is your responsibility to decide what works best for your Sept. 17 (Th) North Coffee: 9:00 Panera Bread/ Northlake family’s specific needs. Mall area; 9309 Center Lake Dr. Charlotte 28216. RSVP [email protected] or 704-545-1902.
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
News from ASNC…
Autism Society of North Carolina Strategic Planning - Help Needed Online survey available
The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) Board and staff are currently developing a strategic plan for areas of need and emphasis in the coming years.
As part of that process, ASNC needs to know what individuals on the autism spectrum, families affected by autism, and other concerned individuals think those areas of need and emphasis should be. Please help with this process. We have developed a short online survey that touches on areas of need and current services. Feedback gained from the responses to the survey will help us plan how and where to use our resources in order to be most effective. All survey responses are anonymous. Once completed, the strategic plan will be available on our website. Click here to take the survey. Thank you for taking the time to share your perspective.
Autism Society of North Carolina Receives 4-Year Council on Quality and Leadership Accreditation
On August 14, The Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL) awarded the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) a four-year term of accreditation. The Council on Quality and Leader- ship is a nationally recognized organization that provides accreditation, monitoring, evaluation, training, and consultation to human service organizations. CQL's accreditation is grounded in core values based on person-directed outcomes. CQL looks for Basic Assurances such as health, safety, and rights paired with Personal Outcomes of individual choice.
CQL's four-year accreditation followed a week-long review by four Quality Enhancement Consultants, who worked with and visited people involved with ASNC throughout the state. In order to receive this four-year term of accreditation, the Autism Society of North Carolina demonstrated its commitment to person-centered services through: • Person-centered service delivery. • Flexible and changeable service provisions based on the priorities of people receiving services. • Organizational practices that promote person-centered services. • Extending staff expertise beyond the internal organization to influence the community outside the organization's walls.
"This accreditation validates our commitment to the individuals and families to whom we proudly provide services and support," said Scott Badesch, CEO of the Autism Society of North Carolina. "It is a testament to the dedication of our staff to bringing about positive change in the lives of people living with autism, and to remaining responsive to the needs and dreams of those we serve."
CQL is at the forefront of the movement to create opportunities for people to lead the lives they choose and to improve the quality of services and support for people with disabilities and mental illness. For more than 30 years, The Council has worked to implement person-centered solutions for service and support organizations, state and national government agencies, regional systems and networks, and professionals and self-advocates. The Council is dedicated to ensuring that people with disabilities and mental illness have full and abundant lives.
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
News from ASNC continued…
Autism Insurance - Study Bill Approved by Legislature
We are very happy to report that the NC State Legislature approved that a study committee be established to examine private health insurance providers being required to cover various treatment cost for people living with autism.
Thru a collaborative effort with other interested individuals and organizations such as Autism Speaks and the ABC Center, we were successful in getting this important and very much needed study committee approved. The study committee will meet during the next nine months and report its findings on this issue to the state legislature during next year's short session. This is also a way to get a bill introduced next year. We are opti- mistic and hopeful that the study committee will report on the overwhelming need for private health insurance providers to cover various treatment and early intervention efforts that have proven to be successful.
We want to specifically thank Senator Linda Garrou who sponsored and advocated for this study committee. On a Federal level, we encourage the NC delegation to support the Autism Treatment Acceleration Act and to lobby for inclusion of autism insurance in President Obama's health care reform bill.
Autism Society of America’s Local Offerings-
Don’t Forget the Sensory –Friendly Movies shown each month at AMC Concord Mills 24. The Autism Society of America has teamed up with AMC Entertainment to provide sensory friendly movies each month. This month’s movie is: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. It will be shown on two Saturdays: Sept. 19th and 26th.
This month the special viewing of this movie will be at 10:00 AM at the AMC Concord Mills 24; 8421 Concord Mills Blvd, Concord, 28027. In order to accommodate those families who will be celebrating Rosh Hashanah on September 19, AMC has decided to add an additional Sensory Friendly showing on Sept. 26th. We hope your family is able to take part in this national offering brought to us locally and hosted by ASNC.
In order to provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for this unique audience, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down, families will be able to bring in their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks, and no previews or advertisements will be shown before the movie. Additionally, audience members are wel- come to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing - in other words, AMC’s “Silence is Golden®” policy will not be enforced unless the safety of the audience is questioned. So don’t be afraid to bring your kiddo. It’s a great way to practice ap- propriate theatre behavior.
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org More News from the Autism Society of NC…
August 31, 2009
Dear Autism Community Members:
We are writing today to make you aware of some changes that have occurred at the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) as a result of a reduction in our state funding. Following this year's difficult legislative ses- sion, ASNC realized that our annual budget would include a decrease in revenue of close to $600,000 com- pared to last year.
For 39 years, ASNC has provided summer camp programming for children and adults living with autism. In 1997, Camp Royall, a 130 acre facility owned by the Autism Foundation of North Carolina and operated by ASNC, opened near Pittsboro, allowing us to serve an increased number of campers over previous years when ASNC rented space at Camp New Hope in Chapel Hill. In 1998, ASNC started a program in the Asheville area called Mountain Adventure, which served approximately 75-100 campers each summer. The Mountain Adven- ture program was located at a facility we rented in Black Mountain. In 2009, we served nearly 400 campers from ages 4 to 60 at the two locations.
As a result of the state budget cuts, we had to cut costs in several areas and across departments. In addition, we have made the difficult but necessary decision to consolidate the camp programs into one location from this point on, and in 2010 the summer camp program will be operated at Camp Royall.
We know that many families have had children experience summer camp at Mountain Adventure. But, with the significant reduction in funding, we had no other choice but to close the program at Mountain Adventure. Looking forward, we have established a staff/board task force that will be working to expand the use of Camp Royall for individuals living with autism throughout the year. It is also our intent to continue to serve the same number of campers who attended both of our camps this summer at Camp Royall next year.
The 2010 summer camp application will be available in January. We will continue to keep you informed about the summer camp program and expansion of opportunities at Camp Royall.
Your input and suggestions regarding our camp and programs are important. Please contact either of us with concerns or suggestions you have. Please click on the names below to send an email. Sincerely,
Whitney Jones, Ph.D. Board Chair
Scott Badesch President & CEO
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org After School Options from Davidson to Ballantyne
New Program for Uptown
Applications are available for ASMC’s 2009-2010 After LifeSpan has a new program to support families in our com- School Program. The program will continue to be housed at munity. They will offer after-school enrichment services CMS’s Metro School, as an example of their commitment to Monday through Friday from 2 to 4pm serving school-aged expand services to meet the needs of the autism community. children with various developmental disabilities at our North Working in closely staffed groups, the students achieved Graham St. location. With low child to adult ratios, clients individualized goals in a variety of areas including reading, will be able to participate in the following opportunities: handwriting, working on computers, sorting, recreation, mu- sic and art; all while blending fun with function. Community Exploration Licensed by the NC Division of Health Service Regulation, Learning Centers the Program accepts CMS students from anywhere in the Life Skills county with CAP Day Support Services or individuals who Music and Art wish to pay privately. Students must attend two hours each Horticulture day for a minimum of three days a week. Transportation from your child’s school to Metro is available. Although Through these opportunities children and young adults will those with severe autism are their specialty, the after-school be able to reach personal goals in an environment that is nur- program is open to students with any degree of autism, from turing and supportive. Children and young adults will be able high functioning autism to those who are severely impacted to participate in group activities that encourages social inter- by their autism. The camp offers a 2.5 to one ratio. Cost is action and team work. For more information, please contact $125.00 per week, but a sliding scale fee is available. Space is limited. To receive an application or request additional Jennifer Frey at information contact Phone: 704.393.0333 Carson Breeden, Social Work Coordinator at Email: [email protected] 704-392-9220, ext 116. Or go to www.AutismServices.org.
Inclusion Based After School Program for Children with Autism
A collaborative effort of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte , the Autism Foundation of the Carolinas, and the Autism Society of North Carolina to provide children with autism many benefits, including socialization, communication, and a structured envi- ronment after the school day is done.
What makes this program so unique? It is a balance of educational support and recreational activities, while providing a safe, nurturing and enriching environment to meet each child’s unique needs. The curriculum is tailored for each child; 1 to 3 ratio. It focuses on creating independent functional living skills and self-management skills, as well as self-directed choice in a relaxing environment. –The program is cost-effective, therapeutic and FUN (less than $6.00 per hour)
Locations: Siskey YMCA ’s Hemby Center and the Lake Norman YMCA *Transportation from school available in some areas
Age: students grades K-5 Contact information:
Hours: Mon. thru Thurs.: 2pm to 6pm Call: Sara Nolan at
Cost: 2 days a week = $195 per month 704-776-1232
3 days a week = $285 per month Or go to: 4 days a week = $375 per month autismcarolinas.org or AFC Afterschool- “Children can participate 2, 3 or 4 days a week, whatever works best in their schedule.” [email protected]
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
Chapter News
Support Group at Each Monthly Meeting Starting with the October meeting, a separate support session will run in parallel to our main topic. The staff at South- east Psychological will be on hand to facilitate a support meeting for those who would like the opportunity to reach out to others for support. We realize that often people who are new to autism or new to the Charlotte area need a place to come where they can begin to develop a support system. With our new meeting location, we are now able to do that.
With the changes in the website, we will be relying more on e-mail blasts to keep you updated about events. If you are not on our e-mail blast list, now is the time to sign up. Unfortunately the print newsletter will not be the best source for your up to date information.
Kathy Snyder and John Cavanaugh have started working on Aware Fare 2010; we will also be taking part in the Belk Charity Days Fundraiser in October and November. If you are interested in helping with either of these, please contact Kathy Snyder- 704-904-0456 or [email protected]. In order to continue to make things happen, we need you !
Coming Soon to a Browser Near You After more than a year in the making, the new and much improved ASNC-MCC website will be rolled out in mid- September. Among the many improvements are:
• A calendar view of events • A quick view of upcoming e vents • On-line forms for teacher grant applications, blast e-mails, child care requests • Additional information and links • and much, much more!
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
ASNC-MCC and the Charlotte Rugby Club
This past June, the Autism Society of North Carolina – Mecklenburg County Chapter was honored to be chosen as the beneficiary of Char- lotte Rugby Club’s first International RugbyFest Tournament. The two day event, which was held at Charlotte Rugby Club’s Skillbeck Field near Mountain Island Lake, resulted in about $3,100 of proceeds for ASNC-MCC. This unexpected windfall will allow us to maintain our services at our current levels in these trying economic times.
Volunteers supplied by ASNC-MCC worked hand-in-hand with those from the Rugby Club on facilities setup, food preparations and staff- ing festival activities. All who volunteered on behalf of ASNC-MCC reported having a great time and have expressed an interest to work on similar events in the future.
Based upon the successful partnership on the RugbyFest, ASNC- MCC and the Charlotte Rugby Club will be teaming up on future ac- tivities. This exciting prospect has been greeted with much enthusi- asm. You will notice a Charlotte Rugby Club presence at support meetings, on our website and in newsletters.
Family Outing
At the September 12th. Charlotte Rugby match, we’ll be having an ASNC-MCC family outing. This will be an opportunity for ASNC-MCC families to T– Shirts attend a public event in a very relaxed environment. For those needing the experience, it will also provide a chance to practice A few of the limited edition 2009 sitting through an entire event. The game starts at 1:00. After RugbyFest commemorative T-shirts are still avail- the conclusion of the match, we’ll be having a post-game get- able. They may be purchased at our support meetings or by together with food. For more information and to RSVP for the contacting Joe Nestor ([email protected]). Cost $10 event, please contact Alli Jamil ([email protected]). each or 2 for $15.
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
Thank You!
We would like to thank all who helped make the first annual Inter- national RugbyFest a success and established an exciting relation- ship between ASNC-MCC and the Charlotte Rugby Club:
ASNC—MCC Volunteers Charlotte Rugby Club Volunteers
Joe Nestor Bruce Boucher Elizabeth Condrick Bernadine Nagle Nancy Nestor Heather Boucher Joanna Felts John Nagle Paul Nestor Marita Kearey Michael Felts Kevin Thomas John Cavenaugh John Kearey Brock Norris Jackie Pappas Sharon Suy Ryan Kearey Simone Ruckavina Lois Smith Mike Snyder Anthony Kearey Ramon Villacura Xavier Smith Kathy Snyder Alistair Lowe Jackie Villacura Tammy Fields Jamie Snyder Rian Geldenhuys Nico Villacura Greg Fields Lora Caudill Jason Zehmke Neil Redgard Ben Sigal Gwen Robinson Brian King Corey McClimans Marvin Sigal John Roeder George Calvo Christina McClimans Matt Anderson Barbera Imbodden Angie Calvo Jonathan Worrall Lewis Anderson Anne Shanley Ashley Calvo Riaan van Schalkwyk Ed “Peabody” Ward Karla Newman Doug Schmiedel Charmaine van Schalkwyk Phil Dent Alli Jamil Mike Schmiedel Burger Geldenhuys Ken Muir Theresa Zimmerman Cheryl Schmiedel Koot Swanepoel Matt Taylor Heidi Diegelman Megan Schmiedel Anton Niemand Fanie van Zyl Christy Koury Doug Martin Peter-John Anderson Carl Behrens Lou Andre Sandy Anderson
Sponsors
Boston Beer (Samuel Adams) – Official Beer Sponsor of the Event High Temperature Technologies, Inc. – Exclusive Provider of Isomembrane William’s Pork – Britishbacon.com – Traditional British Food Products Southern Party & Events – Party and Event Supplies Konica Minolta – Mr. BizHub – Business Solutions Sting Marketing – Graphic Design & Media Video Systems of the Carolinas, Inc. – Corporate A/V Solutions throughout the Carolinas Big Ben British Pub & Restaurant – Tasty English Meals & Beverages Bud Light - Beer Tilt on Trade – Bar/Entertainment/After Party Rookie Rugby – Rugby for All Development Pathway Strike City – Bar/Entertainment/After Party Biltong USA – Biltong & Boerewors Leisure McCorkle – Entertainer/Songwriter Yebo Magazine – South African Expatriate Magazine Culinary Expressions Catering – Corporate & Event Catering
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
Upcoming Recreational Events Throughout the County
STAR BOWLERS
for adults, 18 and older, with disabilities
“Have a great time with old friends, while making new friends!”
Dates: (T) Sept. 15, 22, 29; Oct 6, 13, 20, 27; Nov 3, 10, 17, Solar Robots are Back!! 24 The FACT Group activity scheduled for Au-
Time: 10:30am – 12:30pm gust has been rescheduled for Saturday, September 26th. 10:00 AM Myers Park Baptist Church; Location: George Pappas’ Park Lanes, 1700 Montford Dr. Charlotte- NEW LOCATION Cornwell Center, 2001 Selwyn Avenue, Charlotte 28207. cost- $25 (Some Scholarships available). To register, call Fee: $8 per week includes two games, shoe & ball rental Terri Ward at Discovery Place-704-372-6261, ext. 309. Our
activity will be building Solar Robots rather than bridge PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED building. To learn more about our Dad’s group contact To register for the program or additional information: John Brown, [email protected] Contact: Vernice Gallon, 704.432.4327 or ver- [email protected]
Click here to download the latest Issue of the TR Wire.
JCC Offers Yoga & Adapted PE.
Starting in September 8th and going every Tuesday until Dec. 1st, the Jewish Community Center will be offering two opportunities for sports skill development and sociali- Youth Programs - Let’s Play Ball! zation. On Tuesdays from 3:15- 4:00, Mr. Dan Vizzini will coach Adaptive Sports Class for those 5-12 on the A Therapeutic Recreation Youth Baseball side of the Alvin E. Levine Gym. For the 12 week course, Children will be given the opportunity to socialize with team- the cost ranges from $144. members/ non– member $204. mates, learn basic baseball skills; and practice catching, throwing, fielding and hitting with plus a $20. one time fee for non-members. Coach Vizzini peers and staff. has taught this course in our community for several years.
th Day: Saturdays Starting Thursday Sept. 10 , Nancy Dill, a seasoned EC. Time: 9:00 a.m. -10 a.m. Teacher-assistant, will teach Yoga during the same time Date: October 3-November 7(rain make up period for 12 weeks. Students will meet in the large Dance Nov. 14) Studio. Costs are the same as the Adapted Sports class. Fee: $50.00 For more info: please call the JCC:704-366-5007. The Age: 5 – 16 JCC is located at 5007 Providence Rd. Charlotte 28226. Location: Torrence Chapel Park, Cornelius You do not have to be a member of the JCC to attend Registration Deadline: September 18 classes. Go to www.charlottejcc.org for more information. Registrations may be made online at www.d-Recs.org,
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
Local Parent Education Opportunities...
Southeast Psychological
Free Support
TEACCH Parent Forums: Parenting Your Asperger's September 30, 2009 Child Support Group
Parents of TEACCH clients, or those who have submitted will be Thursday, Sept. 3rd: their applications for TEACCH services may sign up for 2 sessions during the morning. The topics for the September 10-11 am forums are: Southeast Psychological Services • Introduction to TEACCH, 6115 Park South Dr. Suite 130
• Problem Solving with Written Strategies for High Charlotte, 28210 Functioning Autism,
• Understanding Individualized Education Programs (IEP) Once a month, Southeast Psych. Offers a unique opportunity for support for parents of those with Registration is required. Call the Charlotte TEACCH Center Asperger Syndrome. Along with exploration of for specific times and to register at 704-563-4103. specific topics, parents will have the opportunity
TEACCH will offer parent forums on a monthly basis. The to meet others with similar experience, as well as, next forum will be Oct. 28th. For more information call a chance to learn of methods that others have Charlotte TEACCH. Check our website for information used with success to help their son or daughter about future classes. with Aspergers. To RSVP please call 704-970-4791. Charlotte TEACCH Center 5701 Executive Center Dr. Suite 108 If Thursdays do not work for you, starting October Charlotte, NC 28212-8836 7th, however we will move to the first Wednesday 704 563-4103 on the month from 10-11 am. 704 563-4112 (Fax)
Reading to Read: Literacy Development ~ The Arc of Mecklenburg Presents:
from the Speech Garden October 3rd — Newly Diagnosed,
Class location: Covenant Presbyterian Church in Dilworth “What do we do next?” Tuesday September 15th; 6-8:00 PM. Location: St. Matthews Catholic Church
This is for anyone concerned about language learning delays. It is 8015 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy 28277 child centered, provides vocabulary repetition , sentence structure, concepts, and builds language skills. You will learn techniques for Learn about therapies and organizations that reading to children, teaching children to picture read, and strategies can provide your child help to improve reading comprehension. To learn more go to: and that can give you support. Learn that you http://speechgarden.org/reading-to-read-literacy- are not alone. For more information: development.html
Or contact Ellen Holloway at 704-609-8255 Phone: 704-332-4535, ext. 103
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org More Local Parent Education Opportunities... Three programs collaborate to provide Two Great Speakers in the Month of September
On September 23, Paula Kluth will be returning Charlotte to provide in-services for administrators, teachers, and parents. Ms. Kluth is a highly respected author and edu- cational consultant in the field of inclusion education. Her body of work spans several topic areas including inclusive learning, autism, literacy, and differentiating instruc- tion. The parent presentation will be at CPCC Harris Campus Conference Center.
When: Wednesday evening, September 23rd; 7-8:30 PM.
Cost: Free
Address: 3210 CPCC Harris Campus Drive; Charlotte 28208
Registration: Check after Labor Day at www.walknowforautism.org/Carolinas to RSVP
Barbara Bloomfield, M.A. CCC-SLP Speech– Language Pathologist and Consultant for ASD
Barbara C. Bloomfield is a speech-language pathologist at Orange-Ulster BOCES, Goshen, New York, where she provides consultation and therapy services for children with autism. She is also engaged in a private prac- tice specializing in Augmentative Communication and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Ms. Bloomfield serves as a trainer for BOCES's Structured Teaching Reinforced in a Visual Environment (STRIVE) and for the Wins- low Therapeutic Riding Center's Riding Education For Autistic and Communication Disordered Children (REACCH) Program. Ms. Bloomfield consults nationally and speaks internationally on the use of visual teaching strategies for individuals with au- tism. Ms. Bloomfield is also director of IconTalk, a firm dedicated to the develop- ment and distribution of communication based visual teaching materials.
When: Saturday, September 26th; 1-3:00 PM.
Cost: Free
Address: to be determined– look for an e-mail blast later
Registration: Check after Labor Day at www.autismspeaks.org/Carolinas to RSVP
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org
Janet Boyce Wins the Ruth Fuller Scholarship
It was her first year working with autistic children and Janet Boyce knew she had found something to love. She had proven her skills in her former job working 25 years in the business world; but this job really made her feel she had a purpose. During the school year, Mrs. Boyce learned a great deal from the classroom teacher she was assigned to work with, but she wanted to learn more about autism and methods that would be helpful in working with her students. This year she saw her kids make huge strides, but she wanted to play a larger part, so she could take on more responsibility in the classroom and help her students could excel more quickly. When Mrs. Boyce found out about the Ruth Fuller Scholarship, she decided to apply.
Each year the Autism Society of North Carolina, Mecklenburg County Chapter offers the Ruth Fuller Scholarship to teacher assistants who work with our children in the self-contained autism classes. The scholarship, named after one of the first therapists hired by TEACCH, is one of the ways our chapter supports the professionals working with our chil- dren. The funds help pay for participation in a weeklong TEACCH Summer Institute, a training held each summer for educators and therapists from all over the world. This training is unique in that participants learn autism specific meth- odology, spend time designing tasks, and test their skills by presenting their tasks to “student trainers” who are effected at different degrees by their autism. Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools is adamant about making sure teachers receive this training; unfortunately however, there is no funding for teacher assistants.
After attending the training, Mrs. Boyce had this to say, “ Every aspect of the training was fantas- tic from the presentations by the TEACCH staff, daily hands-on assessments and activities with children (co-trainers), panel discussions with autistic adults and parents of the co-trainers, and collaboration and networking with the seminar participants. I am anxious to start the upcoming school year armed with new knowledge! I have had several discussions about the seminar with the teacher that I work with, Kati Bertelson. I believe that with this training and her continued support, I will be a better resource in the class- room. “ We are very excited to have our latest scholarship winner start the new school year, as well. We are hopeful the training servers her as she continues working with our children for sev- eral more years.
If you are interested in the 2010 Ruth Fuller Scholarship, please look for information regard- ing the application process in the May issue of Autism Matters or contact Nancy Nestor at the Janet Boyce, 2009 Ruth Fuller Scholarship Winner, with Ruth Fuller– who continues to work as a clinical supervisor. phone number or e-mail address listed on page 2 of this newsletter.
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org Autism Research in the News…. Brain Anomaly Linked to Autism UNC Scientists speculate the amygdale grows to compensate for the disorder.
By Sarah Avery , The News & Observer Staff reporter (Raleigh) May 4, 2009
An area of the brain that helps read facial cues is larger in toddlers with autism than in children without the disorder. The findings, published Monday in the Archives of General Psychiatry by scientists at UNC-Chapel Hill, add insight into brain-size anomalies that autism researchers have been studying in recent years. The UNC-CH scientists focused on the amygdala, a region deep in the brain that helps control emotions, regulate attention and read social cues from eye contact.
Children with autism have difficulty interacting with others, and one hallmark of the disorder is a failure to make eye contact with other people. Using imaging technology, the scientists did brain scans of 2-year-olds with and without autism. They found that the autistic children had enlarged amygdalae, and the distinction persisted in a follow-up screening of the children two years later. The scientists also noted that the severity of autism was less in children whose amygdalae were largest. The scientists don't know why the enlargement oc- curs in this way, but have a guess:
"The amygdala may overgrow early on, in a compensatory response," said Dr. Joseph Piven, director of UNC's Neurodevelopmental Disorders Research Center and one of the study's authors. Just as an athlete's muscles grow larger from performing a physical task time and again, Piven said, an autistic child's brain may grow larger to accommodate the deficit -- the more successfully, the bigger the brain growth. But he said that hypothesis needs further research. "We have no sense of what's causing this," Piven said. Still, the finding could help researchers diagnose autism earlier and develop new interventions that help strengthen a young- ster's social function.
"What they're doing at UNC is really starting to define in the brain what's going on with someone who has au- tism," said Scott Badesch, chief executive officer of the Autism Society of North Carolina. "That gives us an ability as providers to address those needs."
Badesch said autism affects about 50,000 people in North Carolina and has been on the rise for decades. But he said recent scientific findings -- including an announcement last week about a new genetic clue for up to 15 percent of cases -- are offering hope to families struggling with the disorder. "We're beginning to find things, and the next question is what, if anything, we can do regarding treatment or a cure," Badesch said.
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September 2009 The Newsletter of the Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter www.asncmeck.org Opportunities to Assist with Research...
Contact: [email protected] or www.ibis-network.org 1-800-793-5715
Criteria: -ages 0– 12 months (expectant mothers can enroll) - have a fully related older sibling diagnosed with autism
The Study will address: -development and behavior -Brain growth -Genetic factors - Environmental factors
Feedback includes: -Developmental assessment results - review of MRI scans by a neuroradiologist - compensation for completion of assessments/ MRI
Participation details: - Traveling to Chapel Hill -Your child obtains an MRI scan while sleeping - Study costs are reimbursed and services are provided free
16 We Need Your Help - Become a Member! Join the Autism Society of North Carolina Membership Form
ASNC Membership (circle level) Individual/Family - $40 Contributor - $75 Supporter - $150 Agency/Service Provider - $200 Life - $1,250 Student - $25 *indicate ASNC Chapter name below and ASNC will give back $10 to your local chapter.
Name______
Address______
City______State______Zip______
Telephone (h) ______(w) ______
Email______
ASNC Chapter Name______
Type of membership(s) (e.g. asnc-family)______Total enclosed $______
Mail all memberships to ASNC to: Autism Society of North Carolina 505 Oberlin Road, Suite 230, Raleigh, NC 27605-1345 To charge memberships call 1-800-442-2762
ASNC – Mecklenburg County Chapter c/o Nancy Nestor 3846 Lipton Ln Mint Hill, NC 28227
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Thank you!