Missouri Autism Report

Autism Report Missouri

May 2012

Parents Advocate for Police Training page 6

Missouri Autism Report Starts Walk Team page 10

Autism Rates on the Rise page 8

Rally Highlights page 13

June 9 MAR Fundraiser in Historical Downtown Fair Grove details on back cover

Dayton Ault 417-300-0515

Page 2

www.MoAutismReport.com

Letter from the Editor.....

Dear Readers, I am not usually one to “look back” and cover “old” news, however; the events which have happened since our last issue, deserved coverage. From the Spectrum Theatre production to the Autism Rally in Jefferson City, there were many truly memorable moments to recap. Hope you enjoy!

One item I did not have space to cover, is the virtual rally that was taking place in Springfield during the Rally at the capital. While Rally goers walked the halls with treats and fliers,, a group of moms in Springfield were taking the day to visit prominent locations, taking pictures and spreading awareness around the city. I am so proud of the moms in my hometown and hope that they will be an inspiration to everyone. Together we are an army!

One last note: On June 9 the Missouri Autism Report will have a fundraising event in Historical Downtown Fair Grove. This event is to help with the publication and printing costs of the Missouri Autism Report. If you enjoy getting this magazine, and feel that it is a worthy cause, we invite you to join in the fun. We are seeking silent and live auction donations, organizations to assist with event activities, businesses to sponsor the event, and people to attend.

Please invite your friends, neighbors and social groups to join us on this day.

Thanks for reading and supporting the MAR!

~Dayna Busch, Editor/Publisher

Missouri Autism Report DAYNA BUSCH EDITOR / PUBLISHER Journalist and Autism mom, Dayna Busch is Editor and Publisher of the Missouri Autism Report FREE online subscription: MoAutismReport@yahoo.com More information: www.MoAutismReport.com Contact: (417)209-0103

www.MoAutismReport.com

DAYTON AULT EDITORIALS / ADVERTISING

Dayton Ault, holds a BA in economics and an MS in Health Administration.

Presently he works with medical insurance and is the editorial writer and treasurer for the Missouri Autism Report.

Inside 1. Cover: Mini-Puzzle Piece Cupcakes by the Sugar Tree in Jefferson City, MO. were popular Rally treats.

3. Leer from MAR Editor/Table of contents / MAR contact info 4. MAR Distribution/Subscribe 200 Challenge 5. Leer to the Editor 6-7. Autism Crisis Intervention 8. Autism Rates on the Rise, Dayton Ault 9. Coconut Super Food, Dr. Sonia/ Volunteer of the Month, Sara Lampe 10. Missouri Autism Report Walk Team/Kick-off 11. News Release on ACL 12. Weird Beard Appearance 13. Autism Rally Highlights 14-15. Springfield, Branson Events 16-17. St. Louis Area Events 18. Kansas City / Joplin area Events 19. Classified 20. Fair Grove Autism Day Fundraiser!

Our Sponsors 2. Care Improvement Plus Medical Benefits 5. Ozark Center for Autism, Dr. Robert Jason Grant Ed.D, LPC, RPT-S 6. The Reach Effect 7. Forest Institute ABA Programs 8. Dunham’s Martial Arts Studio 9. Mosaic Hair Design / Health Quest Physicians Group 10. Counterpoint Autism Services 11. SCIL Prom/Vision Enhancement Clinic 12. d.v.LaRue Design and Printing/Lacknothing Services 15. Burrell Autism Center / Nova Cardinals Tickets 16. TouchPoint Autism Services 17. Pamela Cooper, Mary Kay Consultant 18. Rivendale Institute of Learning, Take the Lead Dance Studio 19. Judevine Center for Autism/ Hart4Autism 20. Fair Grove Autism Day Fundraiser!

Page 3

MAR Printing, Distribution, and Subscription Information Springfield Developmental Center of the Ozarks 1545 E Pythian Burrell Autism Center 1300 Bradford Pkwy Greene County Library: all locations!

Rivendale 1613 W. Elfindale Lighthouse Lanes 350 S. Glenstone Redeemed Book and Music 4140 S. National Ave. The Garden Cafe 4315 S. National

TouchPoint Autism Services 107 Waugh St. Columbia, MO.

Other Areas CC Counseling 380 E Hwy CC, Suite A105 Nixa

Kirksville Regional Office 1702 E LaHarpe Kirksville

Skaggs Medical Center Branson

Ozark Center for Autism 3230 S. Wisconsin Ave. Joplin

Developmental Connections 1533 E. State Hwy 76 Branson Behavior Intervention Services 10176 Corporate Square. Dr., Suite 220 Creve Coeur

SCAN of Lebanon (Terry Faust) 417-718-7081 St. Louis Arc 1177 N Warson Rd Touchpoint Autism Services 1101 Olivette Executive Parkway St. Louis

Health Quest Physicians 3349 American Ave Jeff City

Now taking subscriptions! Don’t miss the Subscribe 200 Challenge!

Email

Page 4

www.MoAutismReport.com

Responses from Readers Welcome Each month the MAR publishes articles, editorials and announcements from professionals and parents around Missouri. We endeavor to “meet each need”, but in doing so, we may strike a cord with one and miss with another. If you have comments to share, we welcome your input. Each person’s opinions and insights make our understanding deeper and richer. ~Dayna Busch, editor

Letter to the Editor Dear MAR, I love everything you’re doing to keep the autism community in Missouri informed. I would like to respond to the Brian Sims article in the April MAR. ABA played a critical role in my child’s therapy and I am thankful for the work of B.F. Skinner and the behaviorists. But speaking as an autism mom, I think the tenet that all behavior is learned is wrong. When my son was 22 months, he had a meltdown when his hand was coated with paint to make a handprint on a quilt block.

This was the first time that had happened to him. Had my son watched others cry when their hands where coated with paint that day? No. Had he ever seen his parents cry when they got their hands messy? No. So why did my son have a meltdown that day?

Sensory processing. Having his hands coated with paint was so uncomfortable that it was painful and he responded to that pain by crying. I didn’t know back then in 1998 that it was painful for him.

After all, it’s not painful to me to have my hands coated with paint.

Vince Carbone said in a Burrell Conference several years back that autism is a damaged nervous system. My son’s nervous system has matured. He no longer cries when his hands get messy or he has a hair cut. I hope I have sufficient wisdom to guide Joe as he becomes an adult who can act appropriately in public. ~Dawn Rethman, Springfield

www.MoAutismReport.com

Page 5

Autism Crisis Intervention is Hot Topic with Autism Parents compiled by Springfield autism moms It is not uncommon to learn of law enforcement encounters with individuals on the autism spectrum.

In one extreme case, a Springfield teen with ASD was hospitalized as a result of a 911 call placed by a family member. In 2010, a teen with ASD was found after wandering away with a stranger on a city bus and spending the night alone in a park.

Several autism parents in the Springfield area have taken responsibility to contact local law enforcement seeking answers, action and understanding for their particular situations. On May 11, three parents met with Springfield Chief of Police, Paul Williams and shared their concerns. According to parent, Dawn Rethman, “Chief Williams seems to get autism. He realizes that encounters between the police and individuals with autism, can be better with more police training and public awareness. I was impressed with his openness and the steps he has and is taking to make sure his officers can deal professionally with an autism meltdown.”

To gain more insight on how families might prepare for an interaction with law enforcement, the parents spoke with Sergeant Shawn Williams of the Springfield Police Department. Sergeant Williams knows both the professional responsibilities of being a law enforcement officer and the challenges of raising a son on the spectrum. His 13 year old was diagnosed at age three.

In his twenty years of law enforcement, Sgt. Williams admits that most of his encounters with individuals on the spectrum are as victims rather than perpetrators. He notes that individuals on the spectrum can be very trusting and gullible and suggests the Autism dad and Springfield importance of teaching police sergeant, Shawn children the danger of Williams talking to strangers and the differences between good and bad touch.

Williams also gave some good tips on when to call the police during a meltdown. “If the child is harming himself or others and the parents cannot gain control, then yes. Call 911.” Williams stresses that parents need to realize what the role of the officer is, in such a situation, and what their limitations are. “They are not autism specialists and they are not miracle workers,” says Williams. The officers are there to stop people from getting hurt without getting hurt themselves. However, if the parents, who are most familiar with the child, can’t

Page 6

April 14, Springfield officers Britt Davis and Austin Lohkamp stop in to see the Burrell Autism Fair and to visit with parents, children and providers. Officers were invited by proactive autism parents. control the situation through communication, the responding officers may not be able to handle the situation through communication either. If communication isn’t working and others are being harmed, force maybe the only option.

“The goal for everyone in a meltdown situation,” Williams explained, “is to survive the initial contact.”

If the incident triggers an investigation, parents should not be defensive. Answer the questions calmly and rationally. If a parent can logically explain the situation to the investigator, the investigation will usually end well. The silver-lining to autism’s ever increasing prevalence numbers is a greater awareness of autism behaviors.

Con’t on pg. 7

www.MoAutismReport.com

Crisis Intervention is Hot Topic with Autism Parents, con’t from pg. 6 Williams also had some advice for parents who have just placed that 911 call. “Meet the officers outside, and give a brief summary of the escalation.” Tell the officers if the child has a weapon in hand or has an obsession with guns. If the child makes a sudden move toward a gun, the officer will do whatever needs to be done to protect his weapon. Williams reported that it is drilled into cadets that “officers who lose control of their weapon usually die by it.”

www.MoAutismReport.com

Creating an information sheet regarding the child, with lists of doctors, m e d i c a t i o n s , treatments, triggers and sensory issues will be extremely helpful if an investigation is opened with Children’s Division or Juvenile Justice. The existence of an information sheet is evidence that the parents had recognized their risk for an

encounter with law enforcement and did something about it.

It was also suggested to register your house with 911. In many counties, addresses of individuals with autism CIT Sgt. Barry Armfield speaks to can added to Autism Rally Attendees the 9 11 database.

Knowing that an individual with autism is on the premises will help officers anticipate an individual who may not respond to commands, may have repetitive movements, or could be in a melt-down crisis.

Williams also reports that autism-specific trainings are continually becoming available.

At the April 18 Autism Rally in Jefferson City, Sgt. Barry Armfield of the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) in St. Louis, Missouri spoke to attending parents.

Armfield suggests finding out if your area has a CIT team and to request a CIT officer be dispatched with the emergency team. Armfield offered his expertise to anyone wanting information about CIT training for their area. He says the response from families has been amazing.

Most families dealing with autism will never have interactions with the police or law enforcement. Regardless, all of the officers interviewed, seemed anxious to help and encouraged families to continue to make positive contacts with their local law enforcement agents. “Build those roads before you need them,” advises Williams.

Page 7

Connect the Dots; Autism Rates are on the Rise Editorial by Dayton Ault

Those pesky autism numbers went up again. According to the Centers for Disease Control, data collected for 2008, but reported in March 2012, shows that 1 child in 88 has a disorder on the autism spectrum. For Missouri residents the figure is an even higher ratio of 1 child in 72. This raises the

Page 8

question of just how high the frequency of autism really is for children in 2012? Consider this. The data collected in 2008 was for eightyear olds born in 2000.

The data is actually 12 years old. I wonder how high the incidence of autism will be in children born in 2012 when data is f i n a l l y released in 2024.

Given that the trend-line is rising from 1 in 166 in 2000 to 1 in 110 in 2006 to 1 in 88 in 2008, the trend would appear headed for even more stunning autism incidence rates. This helps one understand the push to “contain” the autism epidemic by redefining “Autism Spectrum Disorders” under the DSM-V to exclude higher functioning Aspergers and PDD – NOS patients.

Coincidentally, Professor John Walker-Smith, who coauthored the 1998 Lancet paper with Andrew Wakefield that cited a possible link between the MMR vaccine and autism, won his appeal against the General Medical Council’s Regulatory Board on March 7, 2012. This paper actually reported on the results of a “small study” of 12 patients and was hardly definitive in its conclusions. It was, nevertheless, the beginning of the professional crucifixion of Wakefield,

Walker-Smith and others that sent a stern warning to anyone foolhardy enough to challenge the sanctity of vaccination.

However, the paper did give voice to a suspicion shared by many autism parents that the MMR vaccination played a seminal role in their child’s autism. Most autism parents are probably answering “Duh” right about now.

So there you have a few dots.

The incidence of autism is rising at an alarming rate. There appears to be an attempt to reduce the numbers by only counting the most severe cases.

Finally, the pharmaceutical industry and its allies in Britain got their noses bloodied after years of calling a formerly respected researcher a fraud.

Connect the dots at your own risk.

However, as a warning to those who want a fight; I’ve seen the Autism Moms at work at the capitol and I have no doubt that they will never give up the cause for their children.

www.MoAutismReport.com

Volunteer of the Month

May 2012 - Missouri Representative, Sara Lampe, helped deliver the Missouri Autism Report to it’s destination in Jefferson City.

Lampe, who began her career as an educator, turned politician, has voiced her support and concern over autism issues on several occasions. In the 2012 primaries, Lampe will be running for Lieutenant Governor. She is anxious to continue to make a difference in the lives of all Missourians.

Coconut is a Super Food for Autism!

by Dr. Sonia O’Donnell-McGowin, D.C. In my practice, I’m consistently recommending coconut products to patients.

When you consider these facts, I think you’ll agree.

Coconut water is now widely available at most grocery stores. This is the liquid found in the coconut. It has a mild, pleasant taste and is a natural electrolyte solution; far better than any sports drink! It’s extremely hydrating, and great for people who are active, because it contains calcium, magnesium and potassium to replace what is lost in exercise. Coconut water also low in calories and fat and contains no cholesterol. Research has found that drinking coconut water on a regular basis can improve immunity, increase your metabolism, improve blood lipid levels, as well as detoxify the body. It is an effective treatment during stomach upset such as nausea and vomiting, replacing electrolytes lost due to illness and calming the stomach. I often recommend it for patients with Candida overgrowth as it works to normalize gut flora and body pH. Coconut milk is a tasty alternative to cow’s milk. As you know, many people with autism have difficulty tolerating casein, the protein in cow’s milk. They often have struggling immune systems, as well. Coconut milk fits the bill on both counts because it is casein-free and has Vitamin C and other nutrients that provide powerful immune system support.

Coconut oil is considered by many to be the healthiest oil on earth, as it contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) which are healthy and easily absorbed by the body. Past studies which stated that coconut oil was a “bad” fat, were proven false, as they used commercially hydrogenated oil. Research has shown that children with autism have difficulty absorbing fats; because coconut oil is a MCFA, it is far more absorbable that any other fat. Coconut oil also aids in digestion. Kids with autism struggle with digestive problems, including irritable bowel-type symptoms, candidiasis, malabsorption and reflux.

Coconut oil is an effective treatment for all of these conditions. It is considered an antiviral, antibacterial and anti-fungal, so it is effective at treating conditions such as thrush, diaper rash and parasites. It has also been shown to reduce seizure activity, as well.

Coconut oil can be used instead of olive or vegetable oil when you cook. You can also use it like you would butter on your toast or in oatmeal, or mix it in warm drinks such as coffee or hot cocoa. I have several patients who spoon it into ice cube trays, freeze it and eat it like an ice cream treat. You can also use it topically like you would a lotion to treat dry skin, eczema and psoriasis. It’s a great treatment for your hair, too! You can buy coconut products at any health food store; most health food sections of large grocery stores carry these products, as well. Give it a try… I think you’ll be pleased with the results!

Dr. Sonia O'Donnell-McGowin, D.C., is a chiropractor currently specializing in treating children and adults with autism and other disabilities. She is a DAN! / ARI (Defeat Autism Now! / Autism Research Institute) trained doctor, offering biomedical treatment at Health Quest Physicians Group in Jefferson City. She has worked in the field of autism since 1988, many years for the Judevine Center for Autism. She lives in Jefferson City with her husband, son and daughter.

www.MoAutismReport.com

Page 9

Missouri Autism Report to start AS Walk Team The Missouri Autism Report (MAR) organization has started a team to walk in the Autism Speaks Walk 2012. After working beside Autism Speaks (AS) for two years in the Springfield area, MAR has decided to join AS in its fundraising efforts.

“The local Autism Speaks group was one of the first to welcome us when we began publication. They have continued to be supportive as we have grown into a monthly print magazine. Each year we help with the resource fair at the Springfield walk and publicize walk events across the state. We decided it is time to start our own AS walk team in support of the work done by AS,” explains Dayna Busch, editor of the MAR. Busch says that she saw a need for individuals to have a team to join if they didn’t want to start one of their own. “If they want to walk, but don’t have a

Page 10

team, they can join ours,” says Busch. MAR would like to include walkers from outlying areas such as Branson, Joplin and Mt. Vernon, as well as Springfield. “We hope to find some organizations which are anxious to donate for the cause.

I hope there will be a sea of MAR WALK T-shirts this year, joining all those other dedicated walkers,” says Busch.

Interested parties may join the MAR team during the Fair Grove Autism Day fundraising event on June 9. All AS walk teams are invited to join in the fun that day and to wear their walk T-shirts in support of Autism. Those wanting to join the MAR team or receive more information may go to the MAR and AS tables at the event or sign up at the webpage: http:// www.walknowforautismspeaks.or g/swmissouri/marwalk.

SAVE THE DATE: Corporate Autism Speaks Walk Kick-Off July 11th - 11am-1pm at Mille's in downtown Springfield

Autism Speaks Walk Family Kick-Off

July 12th - 7-8:30pm at JumpMania in Springfield info: Kaia Fields 417-379-3938 kaia.fields@gmail.com

www.MoAutismReport.com

A Statement from Secretary Sebelius on the Administration for Community Living News Release, April 16, 2012 – All Americans, including people with disabilities and seniors, should be able to live at home with the supports they need, participating in communities that value their contributions, rather than in nursing homes or other institutions.

The Obama administration and my department have long been committed to promoting community

living and finding new mechanisms to help ensure that the supports people with disabilities and seniors need to live in the community are accessible.

Today, with the creation of the new Administration for Community Living (ACL), we are reinforcing this commitment by bringing together key HHS organizations and offices dedicated to improving the lives of those with functional needs into one coordinated, focused and stronger entity.

The Administration for Community Living will bring together the Administration on Aging, the Office on Disability and the Administration on Developmental Disabilities into a single agency that supports both cross-cutting initiatives and efforts Prom for Youth with Disabilities focused on the unique needs of individual groups, such as children Hosted by with developmental disabilities or seniors with dementia.

This new agency will work on increasing access to community supports and achieving full community participation for people with disabilities and seniors.

The Administration on Community Living will seek to enhance and improve the broad range of supports that individuals may need to live with respect and dignity as full members of their communities. These support needs go well beyond health care 2210 West Republic Road and include the availability of Springfield, MO appropriate housing, employment, education, meaningful relationships Semi-Formal Attire Ages 14-25 and social participation.

Building on President Obama’s Pre-Registration Required Year of Community Living, the ACL Admission: Nonperishable Food Donation will pursue improved opportunities for older Americans and people with 2864 S. Nettleton Ave. disabilities to enjoy the fullest inclusion in the life of our nation.

Springfield, MO 65807 For more information, please visit http://hhs.gov/acl Contact: HHS Press 417.886.1188 Office (202) 690-6343.

Evening of

Enchantment 7 - 9 pm

Ridgecrest Baptist Church Fellowship Center

www.swcil.org

www.MoAutismReport.com

Page 11

Weird Beard the Autism Pirate Makes Springfield Appearance On April 14, Weird Bear the Autism Pirate, an original sensory-accessible play, made the trek from Columbia, Missouri, to perform at Forest Institute, in Springfield. The afternoon show had 53 in attendance and about half that number were in attendance at the morning show. Those who experienced the show seemed to enjoy the production, but the cast might have had more fun than the audience.

“My co-director and I were in the back of the room just bursting with tears o f j o y, a s w e watched....the children’s reactions to our play,” said Paul Carter, Director.

• handicap-accessible “ [They] were remodels moving their c h a i r s • room additions closer...kids were • weatherization waving and • insulating talking to the • doors or windows characters, and e n j o y i n g installed themselves • HVAC w i t h o u t • property management jonathan@lacknothing.com restrictions.”

After the s h o w, c a s t and audience mingled, took pictures and shared “gold coins” from the treasure chest.

Dr. M i c h e l e Williams, ABA Director at Forest Institute was very pleased with the performance.

“The students and I enjoyed t h e performance very much and we loved

Carpentry done right!

Page 12

www.MoAutismReport.com

1

2

3

Autism Rally Highlights

9

Photo by House Photographer : Rep Clem Smith

8

1. Logan Marshall helped canvas the capitol with homemade goodies and a personal “thank you� that brought smiles and tears.

2. Senator Scott Rupp spoke after receiving a certificate of appreciation for his support of the autism insurance mandate.

3. Lois Blackwell, Founder of Judevine Center for Autism, is presented an award for her landmark work with autism. Presenter: Ginger Luetkemeyer 4. Les Wagner, Boone County Family Resources, shares about Partnership for Hope Waiver.

5. Sgt. Barry Armfield with St. Louis County CIT shares about law enforcement training.

6. Rep. Sara Lampe is presented a certificate of appreciation for her support of autism. Presenter: Dayna Busch.

7. Rally Organizers L to R: Georgia Mueller, Sharon Moeller, Jenny Whitty, Dayna Busch, and (front)Ginger Luetkemeyer 8. Darrius Roberts, teen with ADS opens the morning at the House of Representatives with National Anthem.

9. Senator Will Krouse receives a certificate of appreciation. Presenter: Georgia Mueller

7 www.MoAutismReport.com

4

5

6 Page 13

Events for Springfield, Branson and surrounding area...

SWAN Invitation Southwest Autism Network, (SWAN) is a place for your child to socialize while you meet and learn from other parents of children with ASD. Children are supervised by trained, caring respite staff with structured activities. Sibs are welcome. Respite is FREE! Meetings on the second Saturday of each month.

Contact: Annee Brandenburg 3burgers2go@opexonline.com

(417)655-2235 swautismnetworkmo.weebly.com

Thursday, May 3

Families4Families meeting (1st Thurs.) at 6:30 pm, Tom Watkins Nbhd.

Bldg., 2100 W. High St. Contact billiespall_1@yahoo.com or Lynn (417) 987-0811.

T T Y N a t i o n a l D a y o f P r a y e r, Disability Prayer Breakfast. Those wanting to be involved may contact Rebecca Hosack www.ttrspringfield.org

Camp Barnabas Remarkable Mothers banquet and fundraiser. For information, call 417-737-7080

Tuesday, May 15

Enabled Service at Central Assembly of God Fusion Center (3rd Tues).

Contact Ethel Campbell at (417) Tuesday, May 8 Parents Encouraging Parents (PEP) 343-9027 or info@enabled2serve.org meetings (2nd Tues.) for families new to the area or newly diagnosed with ASD. Saturday, May 19 Locations announced on SWAN website each month: h t t p : / / Just Kick Co-ed Kickball Tournament to benefit The ARC of the Ozarks No swautismnetworkmo.weebly.com/ Limits Summer Porgram. To be held at SSEPTA Board Meeting, 6:30-8pm at the Strafford Sports Complex, 9602 E. the Library Center, Springfield. Agenda Hwy OO, Strafford. For more info go to includes plans for teacher appreciation www.thearcoftheozarks.org or contact and Literacy Night. SSEPTA is asking N a t e (417)864-7887 or parents to post teacher “thank-yous” on nreed@thearcoftheozarks.org. its FB page (facebook.com/ springfieldsepta) on May 7-11. SSEPTA Tuesday, May 22 will be delivering apple baskets to each Sensory Night at Jump Mania, (4th SPS school building on Friday, May 11. Tues) from 7-8:30pm. 2745 S. Kansas Additional information on how you can Expressway, (417)881-5867 participate can be found on Facebook or at www.springfieldsepta.org.

Wednesday, May 23

New Frontiers in Pediatric Mental Health Springfield/Branson, MO May 9-11, 2012 For health workers, doctors, corrections, therapists and counselors.

For more info go to www.burrellcenter.com/newfrontier.

An informational meeting on the Pilot p r o j e c t b e t w e e n Vo c a t i o n a l Rehabilitation and Alternative Opportunities from 6-7pm at Springfield Greene County Library Center, 4653 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield.

Please RSVP to Jackie (417)895-5864 or Melanie at (417)895-5731.

Friday, May 25

Through the Roof worship services for individuals with disabilities and their families (LAST Friday) location TBA. For more info, watch website Thursday, May 10 TouchPoints Picnic (Adults) at the ttrspringfield@gmail.com or call (417) Saturdays, May 5-26 Oak Grove Pk, 6:30-7:30pm, food 894-7844.

SWAN Tae kwon do classes for g a m e s a n d f u n . E v e n t h e l d a t Thursday, May 24 Elementary Social Group, (Saturdays), Springfield Office if rain. For referred 10-11am at the Living Room Studio at f a m i l i e s Branson Touchpoint Sib-shop for o n l y.

RSVP to Mama Jeans, 1727 S. Campbell for only jackie.mace@tpamail.org or (417) ages 5 up, from 10-11am. Location TBA. $5 per child! Space is limited. Please 890-1399 For referred families only. RSVP to RSVP at 3burgers2go@opexonline.com jackie.mace@tpamail.org or (417) o r h t t p : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / 890-1399.

Saturday, May 12 SWMOAutism People First of Springfield monthly Monday, May 21 meeting (2nd Sat.) 11am - 12:30pm. At Tuesdays, May 1-29 Wesley United Methodist church, 922 W. SCAN of Lebanon support meeting Troop 2 meetings for Boy Scouts of America, every Tues. at 6:30-8 pm at R e p u b l i c R d . , S p f d . F o r m o r e (usually on 4th Mon) is changed for Greenvalley State School. Contact information contact Marisa Clary at Memorial day to Monday May 21. Same place, same time at at Hilcrest Baptist Te d d y H e a t o n , ( 4 1 7 ) 8 8 3 - 6 6 8 0 (417)886-7180 or marclary@aol.com.

Church, 399 Hoover St., Lebanon, teddy.heaton@wfadvisors.com 6:30-8pm. Childcare provided at SWAN (Southwest Autism Network) www.ozarktroop2.com meeting (2nd Sat.) 1-3pm at Wesley Stringbeans Childcare, 511 Harrison St., Friday, May 4 United Methodist Church, 922 W. 6:20-8:10. RSVP on Facebook or Republic Rd., Spfd. Attendees may Contact Terry Faust(417)718-7081 Springfield Cardinals Baseball game for Nova, 7pm. Tickets just $8. For more bring refreshments to share. Contact scan4kids@yahoo.com. person Annette(417)833-9359 info contact Linda at (417)889-3121.

3burgers2go@opexonline.com

Page 14

www.MoAutismReport.com

Events for Springfield, Branson and surrounding area...

TAPAS & TOPHATS

Champion Athletes of the Ozarks

May MAY 4, 2012 Honoring Remarkable Mothers of the Ozarks Featuring honorary Chairwomen Kate Gosselin

Sponsored by Camp Barnabas 417-737-7080 Â

www.MoAutismReport.com

Soccer at Lakes Country Soccer Wednesday's 6:30- 8:00 pm Softball at Boys & Girls Club Musgrave Unit Wednesday, May 23 To register an athlete or for more information please call (417)890-1599 or e-mail sqmiles@championathletes.org

Page 15

Events for St Louis and surrounding area Tuesday, May 1 Dad’s Support Group, 5:30-7:30pm.

Informal to discuss raising child with a disability. Location varies. Contact Mark Keeley at (314)817-2269 or mkeeley@slarc.org.

Wednesday, May 2 State and Federal Benefits Workshop: what are they and who is eligible? 6:30-8:30pm at St. Louis Arc Family Center, 1177 N. Warson Rd., St. Louis. For more info go to www.slarc.org or email amangelsdorf@slarc.org or call (314) 817-2275. Registration Required.

Saturday, May 5 ICAA Monthly Autism Support Meeting (1st Sat.) at 6pm NEW LOCATION TBA, St. Louis. Families welcome. Refreshments served. For more info, go to www.icaaonline.org or info@icaaonline.org.

Dad’s Disability Support Group, from 5:30-7:30pm. Location TBA. For more info, go to www.slarc.org or call (314)817-2211

Tuesday, May 8 Celebrating Individuals with Autism, panel discussion with several individuals on the Spectrum.

6:30-8:30pm at Washington Univ.

School of Medicine, 4444 Forest Park Ave, St. Louis. RSVP to MO-FEAT at (314)993-0806 or info@mofeat.org

Wednesday, May 9 Sibshops/Teen Sibshops, 6-8pm (2nd Wed.) Recreational support programs for sibs ages 6-11, Teen

Page 16

sibs ages 12-18. For info, contact amangelsdorf@slarc.org or (314) 817-2275.

Friday, May 11 Kid’s Meet-Up Group (2nd Friday) for boys and girls 5-12 on the spectrum and their friends or sibs.

Meet at St. Louis Arc, 1177 N. Warson, St. Louis. Go to www.slarc.org to register. Event is FREE. More info call Sharon at (314) 852-8229. or sspurlock@slarc.org Families with Young Children Support 9:30-11am. Coffee and networking group for caregivers of children 8 and younger. Kids may play in fully equipped playroom, supervised. Call to register at (314) 817-2285 or Iramirezpresberg@slarc.org.

Saturday, May 12 Asperger Mom’s Group, 9-11am for moms of child with aspergers. (2nd Sat) Meets 2nd floor of Kaldi’s Coffee at Schnucks - Des Peres, 12332 Manchester Rd., Saint Louis, MO. Contact (314)817-2222 or sspurlock@slarc.org

Wednesday, May 16 Services and Programs of the St. Louis Arc Workshop, 6:30-8pm at St. Louis Arc Family Center, 1177 N. Warson Rd., St. Louis. For more info g o t o w w w. s l a r c . o r g o r e m a i l amangelsdorf@slarc.org or call (314) 817-2275. Registration Required.

Saturday, May 19 Washer Tournament to benefit Action for Autism from 11am - 6pm

a t Ti e m e y e r P a r k i n S t . A n n , Missouri. For more info, contact Brittany Thorn bthorn@behaviorinterventionservices. com or (314)395-9375

Wednesday, May 23 Monthly ASD Support Group (4th Wed.), from 7-8:30pm at Gateway Center for the Arts, 204 Elm St., Washington, MO. Contact Kim (636) 239-8939.

Friday, May 25 Teens with Aspergers, (last Fri) at 6-8:30pm at Masonry Centre, 1429 S. Big Bend Boulevard, Richmond Heights. For more info, go to sspurlock@slarc.org or call (314) 817-2222 Caregivers of Adults 40 & over: 10-11:30am at St. Louis Arc Family Center, 1177 N. Warson Rd., St Louis. Meet caregivers who support a person with a disability who is 40 or over. Learn resources and strategies.

Contact Sharon at (314)852-8229. or sspurlock@slarc.org

L o s e t h e Tr a i n i n g W h e e l s Bicycle Camp is now accepting registrations for riders and volunteers. Sessions run June 18-22, 8am-4:30pm at South Technical High School, 12721 West Watson Rd., St. Louis. For more information on Lose the Training Wheels, go to their website at www.losethetrainingwheels.org or register online at www.mofeat.org.

www.MoAutismReport.com

Events for St Louis and surrounding area SSD Parent Workshops, St. Louis area The Art of Effective Advocacy Monday, May 7, 6-9 p.m.

SSD Central Office, Room 61 Orientation for Parents to Special Education & the IEP Process Wednesday, May 9, 9-11 a.m.

SSD Central Office, Room 57 Teaching Play Skills to Children with Autism Two separate sessions will be offered, presented by SSD’s Effective Practice Specialists – Autism Spectrum Disorders Wednesday, May 9, 6-8 p.m.

Audience: This session is for parents and/or teachers of elementary school children with Splash into SUMMER with The Belle Center!

Summer Therapy Tutoring Program for children ages 3-13. Services can be provided at home, camp, library, park, or other facility.

Therapies include: --Speech & Language Therapy --Occupational Therapy --Special Education/Tutoring For more information or to sign up, call Marie Webb at 314-692-8499 or email marie@bellecenter.com Register now! Space is limited!

high functioning autism/Asperger syndrome. Participants will receive a copy of the DVD "Model Me KidsTime for a Playdate".

Location: SSD Central Office, Board of Education Room (upstairs) Tuesday, May 15, 6-8 p.m.

Audience: This session is for parents and/or teachers of young children with autism who are nonverbal or minimally verbal.

Participants will receive a copy of the book "Teaching Play Skills to Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder".

Location: SSD Central Office, Room 61 (Lower Level) Is Your Child a Target of

Bullying?

Monday, May 21, 6-9 p.m.

SSD Central Office, Room 60 Orientation for Parents to Special Education & the IEP Process Wednesday, May 23, 7-9 p.m.

SSD Central Office, Room 57 To register for SSD parent workshops, call 314-989-7807 or 711 (Deaf/HOH), or register online at www.solutionwhere.com/ssd (call the registration number for assistance with setting up an account). Please be sure to register for workshops as they are sometimes canceled due to low enrollment or inclement weather – we need to be able to contact you!

Great Strides Behavioral Consulting, presents social enrichment groups for children as well as parent training in the use and generalization of social skill. Individualized assessments are done as well.

The group is called Social P.A.L.S. and is designed to Promote the Advancement of Language Skills for children with developmental delays. For more information, contact LenEll Kelley, (314)306-8832.

Jefferson City /Columbia Events . . . . . .

Fridays, May 4-25

Saturday, May 5

Adapted Gymnastics at Tiger Performance Complex, Champions Drive on MU campus, Columbia.

3-9yo. meet 6:30-7:30pm. 10-18yo meet 7:30-8:30pm. We still have openings in these classes! Contact Jeff Krug for more info (573)882-3561 krugi@health.missouri.edu

Bowling for Autism. Families welcome to participate in tournament, Columbia, MO. For info contact Touchpoint Columbia at (573)874-3777.

www.MoAutismReport.com

Thursday, May 31 Cole County Autism Support Group, (last Thurs.) 6:30 pm at 1908 Boggs Creek Rd., Jefferson City. For info, call (573)634-4555

Pamela Cooper, consultant Ozark, MO 65721 Ph: 417-595-7153 http://www.marykay.com/ pamelacooper

Page 17

Kansas City Area ASD Events. . . . . . .

Saturday, May 5

Sensory Friendly Films presents Pirates! Band of Misfits (PG) 10am-12pm at participating AMC Theaters.

Blue Springs, MO 64014. Enter at east side of building and meet in Rm A224. Info: Jenny at radioturtle@hotmail.com or www.asaheartland.org

Monday, May 7

LEE'S SUMMIT - MOAFAA meeting (Missouri Advocates for Families Affected by Autism) (1st Mon) 7pm at Legacy Christian Church of Lee's Summit, 2150 East Langsford, Lee's Summit, MO Phone: (816)554-3017

Tuesday, May 8 Cass ASD Support Group (2nd Tues) 6-8pm, Casco Area Workshop, 1800 Vine, Harrisonville, MO. Autism Society-The Heartland Blue Springs/Lee’s summit Support Group (2nd Tues) 6:30-8pm at Blue Springs Christian Church, 7920 S. 7 Hwy,

Thursday, May 10

North Kansas City Support Group, (2nd Thurs) 7-9pm at N. KC Hospital, 2790 Clay Edwards Dr., in the Antioch Rm in Health Services Pavillion on first floor. Info: Jenny at radioturtle@hotmail.com or www.asaheartland.org

Friday, May 11 Jackson County 50’s & 60’s Dance at Roger T. Sermon Center, 201 N. Dodgion, Independence from 6:30pm-8:30pm. $2 per person. Door prizes, drinks and D.J. For more info call Cheryl at (816)763-5130.

Saturday, May 19

Caffeine Addicted Moms of Kids with ASD meeting, (3rd Sat) 11am-1pm at Cupini’s, 1809 Westport Rd., Kansas City. Info: Jenny at radioturtle@hotmail.com or www.asaheartland.org

Thursday, May 24

Autism Society Support Group Meeting, (4th Thurs) 7-9pm at Legacy Christian Church, 10150 Antioch Rd., Overland Park, KS. Info: Jenny at radioturtle@hotmail.com or www.asaheartland.org

Thursday, May 31

Northwest Autism Spectrum Family Support Group (last Thurs) 7-8pm at Christ Episcopal Church, 207 N 7th St., St. Joseph, MO. Contact Jamie at (816)390-8545 or Robin at (816)792-2823.

JOPLIN AREA . . .

Tuesday, May 1

Ozark Center for Autism Support Group, Joplin (1st Tues.) 6-8pm, 3230 S. Wisconsin. Free and open to the public.

For info, contact Heather (417)347-7850.

Wednesday, May 23 TouchPoints Adult Social Group, ages 17 up, meet 12-2:30pm for pizza and movie at Joplin office. Pizza provided.

RSVP at (417)890-1399 or jackie.mace@tpamail.org

Page 18

www.MoAutismReport.com

Classified Classified Services

Computers

Professional disability advocacy for special education and disability service systems.

Computers at cost; Desktops and Laptops.

All come with Windows 7 , O f f i c e S t a r t e r, DVDRW. Processors, ram and hard drives will vary. Prices start at $200.

Georgia Mueller, MS Visioneers 4 Access 913-963-8349 www.VisioneersKC.com info@visioneerskc.com

417.886.6143 hph417@gmail.com for more information.

Your Announcement Here!

The Drury University Center for Music Therapy and Wellness - New sessions for Chosen Stars Performance group beginning in May and small music therapy groups in early June. All ages. To Register: Julie Cassity 417-861-7345

MoAutismReport@yah oo.com Prices starting at $20

Events

Products

ATTN PROVIDERS: The Family Partnership 2012 Parent and Caregiver Retreat, scheduled for October 19-20 in Columbia, MO. is now accepting Vendor applications for resource display a r e a . To a p p l y, c o n t a c t janis.traughber@yah

Autism Treasures has the perfect gift for moms and teachers!

Unique and handmade. email elizabeth.autismtreas ures@gmail.com or link to all blogs and products at www.autismtreasures. com

To inquire about putting your announcement in the Classified section, contact(417) 209-0103

Assistive Technology Fundraiser SEPTA is selling jewelry pouches for a suggested donation of $10 Donations will go to purchase Ipads for Springfield Public Schools.

To order, call Dawn Rethman (417)773-4952

www.MoAutismReport.com

Page 19