Enrollment Opportunity for Autism Clinic Trials

Below is a letter from Dr. George M. Joseph regarding recruitment for the ConnectMe
study. If interested, contact Dr. Joseph's office at 904-280-3552 for for more information, visit www.connectmeclinicaltrial.com.

Hello:

I am writing to you to make you aware of an exciting phase II national clinical research study for the treatment of core symptoms of autism in children—communication and socialization. George M. Joseph, MD, PA is one of 16 research centers throughout the US participating in this study, which is called ConnectMe.
As you well know, autism is clearly a disorder with tremendous unmet medical, educational, and other needs. Scientific advances continually provide researchers with new insights into the spectrum of autism disorders and that is why we at George M. Joseph, MD, PA are especially hopeful about the ConnectMe study. The protocol for this study was developed in close collaboration with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Interactive Autism Network (IAN), a nonprofit organization that facilitates communication between researchers and families with autistic children is also engaged with this study. The investigational medication being studied in ConnectMe contains the active ingredient memantine hydrochloride, in a formulation, dosage and administration schedule appropriate for (and unique to) pediatric patients. Memantine hydrochloride has been deemed safe for use in an adult patient population, and the pediatric formulation has been and continues to be closely monitored in pediatric patients with autism who are participating in this study. While this is the first double blind, placebo controlled study of memantine in autism, a publication of an individual physician’s clinical practice experience in children with autism showed improvements in language function and social behavior.* The ConnectMe study is designed to confirm or challenge those earlier findings. Regardless of the outcome, this study will be a landmark in the field of ASDs.

Families who have enrolled their children in clinical research are to be applauded for their commitment and support of these important scientific endeavors. As you can imagine, the families who have enrolled their children in ConnectMe are very hopeful and excited to participate and to learn of the results. Recruitment for this study will continue through the fall of 2011. I urge you to encourage families in the greater (city) area with children between the ages of six and twelve who have a diagnosis of autism to contact our center to see if they are eligible to enroll in ConnectMe. If you are uncertain about a child’s diagnosis, we are more than happy to determine the presence or not of autism at no cost to the child’s family. Please forward on the following phone number and web address to those families—[904-280-3552] and www.connectmeclinicaltrial.com or if these families give permission to be contacted by us, we would be more than happy to reach out to them.

Thank you for your interest and your commitment to helping families.

Sincerely,
George M. Joseph, MD
*Journal of Child Neurology, Vol. 22, No. 5, 574-579 (2007)DOI: 10.1177/0883073807302611

CARD Community Meetings Announcement (Duval)

CARD Community Meetings in Duval County
Time: 6:00 PM


09/02/10

Atlantic Coast High

9735 R.G. Skinner Pkwy

Jax, FL 32256



09/16/10

Westview Elementary

5270 Connie Jean Rd.

Jax, FL 32210



09/23/10

Highlands Elementary

1000 DePaul Drive

Jax, FL 32218

Purpose: To meet with parents and family members about the needs of the local autism community. Information obtained at this meeting will help our organization provide better services and support to individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families.

For more information contact Mae.Barker@jax.ufl.edu



Anthony R. Rhodes, M.S.

Educational Multimedia Specialist

Univ. of Florida at Jacksonville

Center for Autism and Related Disabilities

(CARD)

Phone: (904) 633-0760
http://www.hscj.ufl.edu/pediatrics/autism/

Autism Oasis for Kids

Dear autism community and friends,

I am a parent of a child with autism in Alachua county, Florida. Through
searching to help my own son I have come to realize the importance of
including parents in any treatment approach for autism and PDD. The
parent-child relationship offers the most powerful teaching opportunities
for social and communication learning. For this reason my husband and I
created Autism Oasis for Kids - a parent run school for children with
autism. We aim to provide a relationship-based approach for children and
high-quality, research-based parent training.
See www.autismoasisforkids.org .

Access to this type of parent training is very limited in Florida. To
address this we are hosting a parent-training workshop in September in High
Springs, the details of which are below. The workshop is open to all parents
and professionals working with children who need help with social and
communication skills, but spaces are limited to 80 seats. Let me know in
advance, if you would need on-site and inexpensive accommodations and meals.

Please make this information available to anyone who could benefit from this
rare opportunity in Florida.

Thank you so much!

Marie Trempe
info@autismoasisforkids.org
1-888-535-6191

Asher's Journal

What is Asher's Journal?  It is a web-based record keeping application that allows parents, teachers, therapists, doctors and other caregivers the opportunity to connect and collaborate for the common goal of the patients health. The mash-up of home data collection, therapy session notes, treatment summaries and biomedical observations provides a new and unique approach to best treating the patient.  As a parent of a child with Autism, you know the pounds of papers you have in your file from IEP's, to therapist visits from the moment of diagnosis and all throughout their life.

Asher Clark is a young boy recently diagnosed with Autism.  His parents, Tim and Nicole developed a system to help them keep up with all of Asher's paperwork and to be able to share with all those involved in his care.  They moved on to develop a website for other parents to be able to do the same thing. 

A big part of Asher's progress this year is due to ashersjournal.com.  The Clarks are just one special needs family reaching out to others. There is a 30-day free trial then a monthly fee.   Take a look and see if Asher's Journal can help your family.

Ben's Place

I discovered Ben's Place when passing by and I wondered what kind of place it was. Turns out that a friend of mine's son goes there to socialize. For developmentally disabled adults, Ben's Place is new and on the Westside (on San Juan Avenue just off of Blanding Blvd.)

I will stop in there one day and check it out, but, I encourage you to visit the website: http://www.bensplacecof.org/index.htm

Capitol Update from Florida Developmental Disabilities Council

Announcement from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council

March 3, 2010 Volume 10, Issue 1
Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, Inc.
124 Marriott Drive, Suite 203, Tallahassee, FL 32301-2981
Phone: (850) 488-4180 / (800) 580-7801 ~ Fax: (850) 922-6702 ~ TDD (850) 488-0956
/ (888) 488-8633
http://www.fddc.org/

The Florida 2010 Legislative Session Begins

The Florida 2010 Legislative Session started March 2 and the topic on everyone's mind is the budget. Florida is looking at a 3 billion dollar deficit, due to revenue shortfalls, that will have to be addressed. Florida legislators are Mandated to balance Florida's budget during each legislative session. Education and Human Services represent the largest share of the budget and will have to be cut.

The Governor's 2010-2011 budget was called optimistic by some and unrealistic by others. It is based on revenue sources that have not been approved and calls for leaving small reserves in the existing budget. The Senate has written to the Federal Government asking for an extension of the increased federal money that was provided in the economic stimulus package last year. This money, and revenue Through a Seminole gambling compact, will not be realized until after the regular session is over, if they are approved.

In the meantime, Senate and House appropriations committees are considering cuts in health and human services programs that could result in as much as a 15% reduction in Home and Community Based Waiver services. The initial decisions for Cutting programs are expected by March 12, 2010.

The work being done by the House is somewhat encouraging because the members of the Health Care Appropriations Committee have ranked services to people with Developmental disabilities as one of the five top services to be preserved. However, how this translates into cuts is not yet known and no program may end up being exempt from reductions.

The Senate is approaching the process of cutting differently. Like the House, they have asked state agencies to present their recommendations on cuts. However, the process is moving more slowly and members have not been openly polled.

The Agency for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (APD) has presented the following options:

APD Recommended Cut ($ amount in millions)

1. Cap services in Tier 1 to $120,000

12.8

2. Eliminate behavior assistance services in standard & behaviorally focused group homes

4.0

3. Reduce Consumer Directed Care Plus (CDC+) by 10%

3.3

4. Eliminate ADT & other services & create a flexible benefit service

113.9

5. Consolidate durable & consumable medical equip.

0.9

6. Other reductions

2.6

On February 17, Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Jim DeBeaugrine was required to present a 15 percent budget cutting exercise to a Senate committee. DeBeaugrine stated that he did not recommend any of the reductions to the agency's budget. He was quoted in the media in a column by Jim Saunders with Health News Florida:

"Nevertheless, Jim DeBeaugrine, director of the state Agency for Persons with Disabilities, made clear Wednesday that he didn't want to have to carry out the cuts he proposed to the Senate committee. After a lawmaker asked about the effects of one proposed cut dealing with programs that developmentally disabled people attend during the day," DeBeaugrine replied, 'In all honesty, it would be very drastic."

The elimination of Adult Day Training (ADT) and the other services grouped with it (Item 4) represents a 62% cut for these services. The other services include respite care, supported employment, supported living, and companion services. If enacted, this cut will affect 24,000 of the 29,000 people now being served under the waiver. Despite the creation of a flexible benefit service that individuals, parents and guardians can use to continue some of these services, the reality is that there will be only 38% of the money originally devoted to these services left to pay for them.

This is troubling because not only will there be more individuals idle during the day, but the two services that make up the very existence of independent living, supported living and supported employment, will be dramatically reduced, possibly threatening the existence of that living option. Also, while it is nice to have a flexible benefit, the reality is that the integrity of each of the services that make up this benefit will be eliminated as a stand-alone service.

Putting a cap on Tier One will effectively force some individuals into residential services and the elimination of behavioral assistance will affect some group homes dramatically, threatening their existence.

The Florida Developmental Disabilities Council has taken a position to avoid further cuts in waiver dollars and services.

Please call your Senators and Representatives http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Welcome/index.cfm?CFID=139164946&CFTOKEN=52813434 and members of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees and let them know
your opinion. http://www.fddc.org/news/legislative-information-committee-contacts

Protect Early Steps, Florida's Part C Program

Early Steps is administered by Children's Medical Services (CMS) in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part C.

Early Steps, which serves children from birth to 36 months who have a developmental delay, or a condition that places them at risk for developmental delays, provides Florida's infants and toddlers early-intervention services and supports intended to improve children's chances to develop to their full potential by achieving specific developmental milestones. These milestones are essential to the development of a child's ability to learn, speak, and move at critical periods that research shows lead to optimal abilities in later life.

In 2008-09, Florida provided these critical early-intervention services to 41,940 children.

For the 2010-11 fiscal year, a projected shortfall of about $4.5 million dollars could jeopardize the federal government's ability to provide a grant to Florida. The shortfall would result in a loss of funding from the state to continue a meaningful program, and the state could lose this $54 million early-intervention program.

Research has proven that the biggest impact on a child's health and functioning is in the child's early years. Longitudinal studies have documented the savings to society in the long run by taking care of our youngest citizens now.

The Council encourages lawmakers to adequately fund the Part C Early Steps program to effectively serve all children with a developmental delay.

We will be contacting members of the Health and Human Services Appropriations committee in the Senate and the Health Care Appropriations Committee in the House and we will let them know that the state needs 4.5 million dollars to maintain Early
Steps at the current level or risk losing our federal grant to provide services critical to the health and functioning of all children ages 0-36 months who have a developmental delay.

Intentional Communities

Senator Altman and Representative Stargel have filed identical bills, SB 1166 and HB 645, that would do the following: eliminate the 1,000 foot rule for group homes within a planned residential community for individuals with developmental disabilities; allow the local government to consider certain criteria, such as land use, zoning and building codes, in determining approval of the community; prohibit local government from considering the proximity of the group homes in the community; and requires that rulemaking for the Agency for Persons with Disability not limit the number of group homes that can be located in the planned residential community. The Senate bill was heard and passed in the Senate Community Affairs Committee on Tuesday, February 16th.

The Florida Developmental Disabilities Council invested a considerable amount of effort this past summer learning about this issue, including listening to families who want planned residential communities (also referred to as intentional communities), learning about intentional communities, visiting an intentional community in Florida, and gaining an understanding of the implication of state and federal requirements on intentional communities. We recognize that the current living arrangements for adults with developmental disabilities who wish or need to live outside of their families' homes often do not adequately provide for safety, social connections, full belonging in the community, affordable housing, ability to move about their neighborhood freely, continuity, and life- long sustainability. The Council adopted a position. http://www.fddc.org/sites/default/files/file/legislative_action/Intentional%20Communities.pdf that included its acknowledgement that intentional communities, designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with developmental disabilities, can offer a framework for creating greater choice of living arrangements; for bringing together the community supports and services to address many of the current issues; for enhancing choice, control, and responsibility in all aspects of life; and for maintaining full inclusion in the community.

While acknowledging the potential benefits intentional communities can offer, the Council also strongly supports the values that have been inherent in the intent of the federal Home and Community Based Waiver funds. The Council therefore believes that Waiver funds should be used for Intentional Communities when the following characteristics are present:

· Provides for housing options only - no workshops, day training, or common
dining is provided on-site;

· Ensures easy access to the broader community;

· Encourages the broader community to come into the Intentional Community;

· Ensures that individuals with developmental disabilities create their own
daily schedules and activities;

· Ensures that individuals with developmental disabilities choose their own
supports and providers;

· Offers housing that is affordable;

· Provides special safety features; and

· Includes residents who are both individuals with disabilities (i.e., developmental disabilities and other disabilities) and individuals without disabilities in a sufficient mix so as not to create a segregated community.

The Florida Developmental Disabilities Council is working with other organizations to amend the House and Senate bills to require through rulemaking the presence of these characteristics when wavier funds are used in Planned (or intentional) ommunities. The Council is concerned that community integration, independence, choice in daily living, and full access to community services as intended with Waiver funds will be jeopardized without such requirements.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

SB 1166 [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103131776507&s=541&e=001OthY69VaK6a7cIjb2f52AR_w-3GjArZ-AAUM3Lfyfmna2c5ga-mvs4nGTCQJFFMWoYPfsLY8v9Gnj55Ymn16h5Pk8oWwESMu1eoaH_IICQc5uJBXQldGlHKRmZSF0_2WYq3MFk7CqAwfFQV-4qfvQX_T-AFwL_n-u_8RtFtQLgoh7DNQhY3YVmeff9pEtZzTUZfR9b_lwYSc996NsMo6utI3fJqggRxxx2MJ0B4_xoqgIvL3oRKaixTJ5-aY99ive9-hTxYOdSizWhDBnH5TgWRmG12JCKZ-]
- Relating to Community Residential Homes by Altman

Co-Sponsors: Storms

Summary

This bill prohibits rules adopted by the Agency for Persons with Disabilities from restricting the number of facilities designated as community residential homes located within a planned residential community. The bill also defines the term "planned residential community" and provides that community residential homes located within a planned residential community may be contiguous to one another and exempt from the 1000 foot rule. The 1000 foot rule states that group homes that have six beds or less may not be within 1000 feet of each other. EFFECTIVE DATE: 07/01/2010.

Committees of Reference

Community Affairs and Children, Families, and Elder Affairs

Actions

01/21/10 SENATE Referred to Community Affairs; Children, Families, and Elder Affairs

02/16/10 SENATE Favorable by Community Affairs; 10 Yeas, 0 Nays

Identical Bills

HB 0645 - Relating to Community Residential Homes by Stargel

Actions

01/28/10 HOUSE Referred to Military & Local Affairs Policy Committee; Health Care Services Policy Committee; Economic Development & Community Affairs Policy Council SB1388 http://www.flsenate.gov/session/index.cfm?BI_Mode=ViewBillInfo&Mode=Bills&ElementID=JumpToBox&SubMenu=1&Year=2010&billnum=1388

Relating to Intellectual Disabilities by Haridopolos
Summary

This bill amends provisions in statute by substituting the term "intellectual disability" for the term "mental retardation." The bill revises definitions relating to intermediate care facilities for the developmentally disabled to delete unused terms. The bill also provides that the name Arc of Florida is substituted for the Association for Retarded Citizens. This bill is a "reviser bill". It provides a directive to the Division of Statutory Revision. EFFECTIVE DATE: 07/01/2010.

Committees of Reference

Children, Families, and Elder Affairs, Criminal Justice, Judiciary, Health and Human
Services Appropriations

Actions

01/26/10 SENATE Filed

HB 81 http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Bills/billsdetail.aspx?BillId=42208&SessionIndex=-1&SessionId=64&BillText=&BillNumber=81&BillSponsorIndex=0&BillListIndex=0&BillStatuteText=&BillTypeIndex=0&BillReferredIndex=0&HouseChamber=H&BillSearchIndex=0

- Relating to Use, Prevention, and Reduction of Seclusion and Restraint on Students
with Disabilities in Public Schools Sponsor(s)

by Hukill Cosponsors: Anderson, Brandenburg, Burgin, Flores, Fresen, Glorioso, Gonzalez, Heller, Hudson, Jenne, Kiar, Llorente, McBurney, Nehr, Pafford, Planas, Porth, Precourt, Sachs, Schenck, Schultz, Schwartz, Skidmore, Soto, Stargel, Steinberg, Tobia, Williams (T), Zapata

Summary

This bill provides that manual physical restraint shall be used only in an emergency
when there is imminent risk of serious injury or death to the student or others; it provides restrictions on the use of manual physical restraint and prohibits the use of manual physical restraint by school personnel who are not trained and certified to use district-approved methods for applying restraint techniques. The bill prohibits school personnel from placing a student in seclusion and provides requirements for use of time-out. It requires schools to prepare an incident report after an occasion of student restraint and also requires development and revision of school district policies and procedures. The Council has taken a position supporting this legislation http://www.fddc.org/sites/default/files/file/news/RestraintSeclusion2010.pdf

Effective Date: July 1, 2010

Committees of Reference

PreK-12 Policy Committee, Health Care Services Policy Committee, PreK-12 Appropriations Committee, Education Policy Council

Actions

08/20/09 HOUSE Filed

10/01/09 HOUSE Referred to PreK-12 Policy Committee; Health Care Services Policy Committee; PreK-12 Appropriations Committee; Education Policy Council

HOUSE Now in PreK-12 Policy Committee

Similar Bills

SB 2118 - Relating to Students with Disabilities/Seclusion/Restraint by Gardiner

03/01/10 SENATE Referred to Education Pre-K - 12; Children, Families, and Elder
Affairs; Education Pre-K - 12 Appropriations

SB 2038 http://www.flsenate.gov/session/index.cfm?BI_Mode=ViewBillInfo&Mode=Bills&ElementID=JumpToBox&SubMenu=1&Year=2010&billnum=2038

- Relating to Medicaid Buy-in Program/Persons with Disabilities by Crist

Summary:

The bill provides for Medicaid eligibility for certain persons with disabilities under a Medicaid buy-in program, subject to specific federal authorization. The proposed Work Incentive Medicaid Coverage program would continue to offer Medicaid coverage to people with disabilities who are working. Once they enrolled in the program they would have the opportunity to earn more and save more than the allowable limits for regular Medicaid and still retain their health care coverage through the State's Medicaid Program. The bill requires the Department of Children and Family Services to adopt rules for determining eligibility. The bill also directs the Department of Health to perform all disability determinations. Finally, the bill requires the Agency for Healthcare Administration to seek amendments to specified Medicaid waivers for certain persons with disabilities. The Council supports this legislation.

DATE: 07/01/2010.

Committees of Reference

Health Regulation, Children, Families, and Elder Affairs, Health and Human Services Appropriations; Policy and Steering Committee on Ways and Means

Actions

02/16/10 SENATE Filed

03/01/10 SENATE Referred to Health Regulation; Children, Families, and Elder Affairs; Health and Human Services Appropriations; Policy & Steering Committee on Ways and Means

Similar Bills

HB 0837 - Relating to Medicaid Buy-in for Persons with Disabilities by Homan

02/10/10 HOUSE Referred to Health Care Regulation Policy Committee; Health Care Appropriations Committee; Health & Family Services Policy Council.

Disability.gov Work Incentives Update: Find a Work Incentive Seminar Near You

Announcement from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council

Please refer all questions or concerns to Disability.gov's homepage http://www.disability.gov/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Find a Work Incentive Seminar Near You

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is hosting a series of free community events around the country for beneficiaries with disabilities and their families. These Work Incentive Seminar Events (WISE) are held by local organizations and can help people receiving Social Security disability benefits (SSDI or SSI) learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, connect with local training and employment resources, and explore opportunities to increase income. For more resources in your state go to http://www.disability.gov/
and select your state from the drop-down menu under "Information by State".

Visit Disability.gov's blog http://blog.govdelivery.com/usodep/ to comment on employment, benefits or other disability-related subjects.

CARD Weekly Update - March 1, 2010

"My bicycle means a lot to me. I feel I am in control when I ride my bicycle
and it helps me work out my frustration and aggravations so I can be a better person."

-Jessica Green

On Saturday, the Jessica Green Foundation (www.jessicagreenfoundation.org) will hold the third annual Ride with Me event to promote autism awareness and raise funds to support autism initiatives in our area. The foundation is extending an invitation to all families with a family member with autism to come out to the event March 6th at Camp Milton and participate in the bike ride for FREE! You will not be required to pay for registration or meet the fundraising requirements, however you will receive the 2009 shirt (not the 2010) and will need to purchase food should you choose to stay for lunch. For more information, http://ridewithmeforautism.org/jessica.html

I hope to see you there!



Mae Barker, Ph.D., BCBA-D

Clinical Director

Center for Autism and Related Disabilities

UF College of Medicine - Jacksonville



Upcoming Trainings/Events:



· Provide Feedback on Upcoming Changes to DSM Autism Criteria: The website for the American Psychiatric Association (APA), the agency which writes and publishes the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, has recently posted details of the newest edition, which include changes to the diagnosis and organization of autism spectrum disorder. The website is currently encouraging comments on the soon-to-be-published edition. Individuals can register, learn about the changes, and give the publishers feedback directly from the APA website. http://www.dsm5.org/ProposedRevisions/Pages/proposedrevision.aspx?rid=94#

· Rethink Autism & Autism Speaks – Treatment and Resources Webinars: Autism Speaks, in partnership with Rethink Autism, presents a FREE live webinar on autism treatment options and resources for families with recently diagnosed children: Wed, March 3, 2010 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM EST . Join us for an orientation for parents and family members of children recently diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Info: www.rethinkautism.com/Community/webinars/default.aspx

· Third Annual Ride with Me for Autism: On Saturday, March 6, 2010, the third annual Ride with me for Autism Bike Tour begins and ends along the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail in Jacksonville, Florida. This event raises funds and awareness for the Jessica Green Foundation for autism support. The ride has choices of 10-mile, 29-mile, and 100k/62-mile bicycling routes, as well as shorter fun rides, so the entire family can come out and participate. A healthy breakfast is served for all riders. There will be vendors, food, music, and ToeKnee the clown. www.ridewithmeforautism.org. The Jessica Green Foundation has extended a special invitation for Autistic families to ride for free.

· 26th Annual Conference on Services for Children with Special Needs - Birth to Five: This year’s conference will be held Schultz Center (4019 Bourlevard Center Dr., Jax), April 1, 2010, and features lectures on literacy, play, behaviors, social skills, sign language, enrichment techniques, and nutrition. The full brochure for this event listing sessions and speakers is available on the CARD webcalendar: www.hscj.ufl.edu/pediatrics/autism/calendar_events.asp.

· “Inclusive Education for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders” - April 19, 2010: Plot a Course, Set Sail, Have a Guide, Keep Learning,” Presented by Dr. Dennis Mozingo, BCBA-D. Dr. Mozingo is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics in the Community Consultation Program of the Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities, Division of Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center. During this workshop, participants will learn how to plan for the inclusion of students with ASD in general education settings, prepare students for inclusion in ESE settings, support students with ASD in the general education setting, and monitor student performance. . All events listed run from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and are provided at no cost to participants. The First Coast Association for Behavior Analysis will be partnering with CARD to offer CEU’s for two upcoming workshops. You will need to preregister (registration is free) online. CEU’s can be purchased at the event.

· “Using Video Based Interventions to Support Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders” - May 14, 2010: Presented by Dr. Linda LeBlanc, BCBA-D. Dr. Le Blanc is an Associate Professor in Psychology for the University of Auburn. Video modeling is an instructional technique that can be used to teach social skills, academic skills, and daily living skills and play skills to children with autism. This workshop will review the important components of effective video models, examine the research support for use of video models, and demonstrate ways to incorporate video when using other instructional procedures. . All events listed run from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and are provided at no cost to participants. The First Coast Association for Behavior Analysis will be partnering with CARD to offer CEU’s for two upcoming workshops. You will need to preregister (registration is free) online. CEU’s can be purchased at the event.

· Survey for Parents of Students with an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) in Exceptional Student Education (ESE). Beginning Feb 01 and ending July 01, 2010, the Florida Department of Education will be collecting parent surveys on “How well is your school supporting your involvement in your child’s education?” Follow this link to complete the survey: www.ESEsurvey.com. Results, which are reported directly to the United States Department of Education, will contribute to Florida’s Annual Performance Report and will be posted for the public at www.fldoe.org/ese.



Flyers for these events can be accessed online @ http://www.hscj.ufl.edu/pediatrics/autism/calendar_events.asp



CARD Logo_02_gif.gif

Ongoing Clinics & Programs:



Ø CARD Toy Bank Program: UF-Jacksonville CARD would like to build a Toy Bank where families in need can get toys and educational materials for use with their child. Please consider donating any of your slightly or unused toys, books, educational items, folder games, visual supports, or other materials to our center to support other families. To donate, please drop your materials to the front office at: UF-Jacksonville CARD, 6271-1 St. Augustine Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32207, For more information please call 633-0760



Ø Social Skills and Support Groups: Dr. Maria Tapia, Licensed Psychologist with the UF/Jacksonville's CARD program, runs several groups for adolescents and adults with Asperger Syndrome, as well as, for their siblings and mothers. If you are interested in joining any of these groups or gathering additional information, such as date, time and ages, please contact Dr. Tapia at maria.tapia@jax.ufl.edu or 633-0760.



Ø Dr. Barker has developed a parent training program to address the topic of, “Learning to play with your child with autism.” Log onto http://card-usf.fmhi.usf.edu/online_training.asp and click on the PowerPoint presentation entitled: “Learning to play with your child with autism”. Be sure you have reviewed the appropriate directions which are attached to this update. If you are a parent or caregiver, download play training directions and if you are a professional or trainer, download play training professional letter. Please email mae.barker@jax.ufl.edu with any questions or concerns.



Ø “Promoting Positive Behavior Change”: This clinic will be replacing the Positive Parenting series that was previously being run Dr. Mae Barker. This clinic is an overview of Pivotal Response, using reinforcement, addressing challenging behaviors and setting up the home environment. This would be great for families of children who have been recently diagnosed on the autism spectrum or parents of older children who simply need a refresher on the basics. Contact Dr. Barker at mae.barker@jax.ufl.edu.



Ø “Behavioral Detective” Social Skills Camp: This clinic offered by Katrina Ressa, B.S., BCaBA, & Anthony Rhodes, M.S., CARD Educational Coordinators, is a 7-week long camp for children diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome or HFA ages 6-12. This camp targets skills such as conversational skills, anger management, accepting making mistakes, being more flexible and more. For more information on signing up for our spring camp, please contact Katrina at katrina.ressa@jax.ufl.edu.



Ø Pre-K Social Skills Clinic: This clinic, offered by Elise Bowers. Parents will learn strategies for engaging their child, promoting communication and conversation, turn-taking, developing joint attention and other social skills. Parents will also learn how to practice, prompt and reinforce their child’s socialization. For more information, please contact Elise at elise.bowers@jax.ufl.edu.



Ø Two Feet Forward: This clinic, offered by Anne Wilson, MST, BCaBA, CARD Educational Coordinator, is for parents of a student in transition. During the meetings parents will learn about transition issues including IEPs & Transition IEPs, Self-Determination & Self-Advocacy, Portfolios, Interest Inventories & Assessments, Post-Secondary Options, Government Benefits, Service Providers & Changes in Services , Barriers, Work Related Issues, and much more! For more information, please contact Anne at anne.wilson@jax.ufl.edu.



Ø Discovering Capabilities: This clinic will be offered by Anne Wilson, MST, BCaBA, CARD Educational Coordinator. This is a student and parent support group. Students discover who they are, what their strengths and talents are, what they want to do in the future, how will they get where they want to be, and who will provide their supports. Discovery provides direction for future career development. Information gathered is placed in a Student Profile for the purpose of sharing the information for job development. The information guides the selection or creation of future jobs in the community. Discovery is for students: between the ages 16 – 19, in transition, planning their future or need guidance planning their future, developing a future plan, identifying individual strengths, needs, etc., writing goals, and identifying supports. For more information, please contact Anne at anne.wilson@jax.ufl.edu.

State Plan Survey - For Developmental Disabilities

Announcement from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council

En Espanol: http://www.fddc.org/news/state-plan-survey-information-spanish

We Want to Hear from You ... Are you someone with a developmental disability?

Do you have a family member with a developmental disability?

Do you provide services to individuals with developmental disabilities?

If you answered 'Yes' to any of these questions, we want to hear from you. Why? Because every five years, the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council develops a state plan, which guides us in identifying solutions to better meet the needs of Floridians with developmental disabilities and their families.

We want to know what you think. We have created two surveys, one for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, and another for service providers. Please contribute to the development of the 2011-2016 state plan by providing your input. All responses will remain anonymous.

You can complete the survey in several ways:

1. Online: Click one of the surveys below that applies to you, complete it and then click Submit.

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/88CSGCF
Survey for Individuals with a Developmental Disability and their Families

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/8HPMJQ2
Survey for Providers

2. By mail: Call the Council Toll Free at 1-800-5800-7801 or


TDD Toll Free at 1-888-488-8633 and request a paper copy of the survey. When you receive it, complete the survey and return it to the Council in the self-addressed stamped envelope included with the survey. You can also fax the survey to the Council at 1-850-922-6702.


3. By phone: Call the Council Toll Free at 1-800-580-7801, or TDD Toll Free at 1-888-488-8633, and ask to speak with Council staff to respond to the survey.


4. E-mail: If you would like an electronic copy of the survey, please call the Council, Toll Free, 800-580-7801 or TDD Toll Free, 888-488-8633.
We urge everyone to complete a survey, and pass this information along to anyone else who might be interested in providing the input to the Council.

If you need this survey in large print or Braille, or if you have questions, please call the Council Toll Free at 1-800-580-7801, or TDD Toll Free at 1-888-488-8633.

Partners In Policymaking (PIP)-Deadline Extended to April 1st

Annoucement from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council

The deadline for Partners in Policymaking applications for the 2010 class has been
extended to April 1, 2010.

Click here http://www.fddc.org/news/pip-application-form for an application.

· Partners in Policymaking is a leadership and advocacy training program that
teaches self-advocates and family members to be community leaders and how to obtain the best available services for themselves and others.

· Based on a national model, the overall goal of Partners is to develop productive partnerships between people who need and use services and those in a position to make policy and law.

For more information about Partners in Policymaking visit http://www.fddc.org/

The dates for the 2010 Partners in Policymaking program are as follows:

*Friday and Saturday, June 11 and 12 in Orlando
* Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, July 16, 17, and 18 in Orlando
* Friday and Saturday, August 13 and 14 in Orlando
* Friday and Saturday, September 10 and 11 in Orlando
* Tuesday and Wednesday, October 12 and 13 in Tallahassee
* Friday and Saturday, November 12 and 13 in Orlando

Exceptional Vacations for Developmental Disabled

Click here for the full 2010 Exceptional Vacations trip schedule for individuals with special needs:

View our new trip schedule at http://www.exceptional-vacations.com/.


An expanded schedule will give providers and travelers the opportunity to save towards a vacation in the future. We offer flexible payment plans, and often customize them to work as a budgeting goal for travelers (i.e. sending monthly statements, etc). Many travelers have learned valuable lessons from the process, with the end reward of going on a great vacation!

If you are not already on our mailing list please click here to sign up: www.exceptional-vacations.com/Contact_Us.htm .

We would also like to announce that Exceptional Vacations is now a division of Exceptional Services Group, L.L.C. We have expanded our services to include counseling, behavior analysis, speech therapy and other therapeutic services for individuals with special needs in the South Florida area. To visit our new website click: www.exceptionalservices.net .

If you have any questions, would like to order additional brochures, or would like to make a reservation please call our office at (954) 972-3667 or toll-free at (866) 748-TRIP. Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Sincerely,
Justin Vassi, MSW, LCSW
Exceptional Vacations - Director

$5000 Available - 2010 6 Days 6 Ramps Community Service Project!

Announcement from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council

Volunteer Florida is pleased to announce the availability of four grants of up to $5000 to support the 6 Days 6 Ramps Community Service Project.

6 Days 6 Ramps is a multi-site collaborative service project between the Governor's Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service, Volunteer Florida; not-for-profit organizations; organizations that serve persons with disabilities; volunteer enters;
faith-based organizations; AmeriCorps and National Service programs and the business community.

6 Days 6 Ramps seeks to achieve the following goals:

Exemplify and expand the role of persons with disabilities in improving their community through participation in national service programs and volunteering.

Bring attention to the need for barrier removal so that persons with disabilities
can remain independent and a part of their communities.

Help strengthen existing volunteer efforts to remove barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from participating in their community by building wheelchair ramps for local residents with disabilities whose income will not support the cost of building a ramp.

Volunteer Florida Reaches out to Veterans with Disabilities

This year Volunteer Florida, through our 6 Days 6 Ramps sites, will focus on including veterans with disabilities to be ramp recipients and to help build ramps in their community.

For further information and to download and application go to http://www.6days6ramps.org. If you have any questions please contact Paul Martell at 850-414-0093 or Erin Pantoja at 850-414-0095. You may also inquire by e-mail at everyoneserves@volunteerflorida.org [mailto:everyoneserves@volunteerflorida.org].

Events at CARD

Upcoming Trainings/Events: 

·         Survey for Parents of Students with an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) in Exceptional Student Education (ESE). Beginning Feb 01 and ending July 01, 2010, the Florida Department of Education will be collecting parent surveys on “How well is your school supporting your involvement in your child’s education?” Follow this link to complete the survey: www.ESEsurvey.com. Results, which are reported directly to the United States Department of Education, will contribute to Florida’s Annual Performance Report and will be posted for the public at www.fldoe.org/ese.

·         CARD-Jacksonville Constituency Board Meeting: The next few meetings of the parent constituency board have been scheduled for February 16, 2010; April 13, 2010; July 27, 2010; September 21, 2010. The University of Florida at Jacksonville, Center for Autism and Related Disabilities has periodic meetings with its advisory committee. The public and individuals served by CARD are welcome to attend these Constituency Board meetings and provide input to the Board and CARD staff. All meetings will begin at 6pm and end at 7pm. Meetings will take place at The University of Florida, Developmental Pediatric Center located at 6271 St. Augustine Road, Suite 1, Jacksonville, Florida 32217.

·         “Developing Literacy in Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders” -  February 19, 2010: Presented by Erin Swenson, BS. Erin Swenson is a teacher for a self-contained autism classroom in Clay County public schools. During this workshop, participants will learn how to increase the reading and writing skills of children with autism spectrum disorders. This presentation will focus on the development of skills for early learners who are reading and writing within the Kindergarten to 1st Grade levels. Participants will learn how to capitalize on students’ unique interests and strengths in order to deliver effective and meaningful instruction. All events listed run from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and are provided at no cost to participants. Registration information and location will be available soon!

·         Rising Stars Baseball: Registration Now Open. Practice begins February 27th and games start on March 13th. The Rising Stars Baseball Division of Ponte Vedra Athletic Association is created to give girls and boys 8-15 from the Jacksonville area who are unable to "SHINE" in our traditional little league an outlet to have fun with baseball, build self confidence, teamwork skills, lasting memories and friendships.  By creating ability-specific levels and a high coach to child ratio, RISING STARS BASEBALL is able to support a range of abilities: from mild coordination concerns to moderate gross motor planning challenges. For kids that have been apprehensive about baseball or didn't feel they were skilled enough, RISING STARS is also a great way to start playing the game. After two instructional practices the kids will be playing baseball in a "sandlot" format. The cost to participate  in RISING STARS is FREE due to league support and contributions of our sponsors; Microsoft, HEAL, and the Greenwood School and many individual supporters. For more information go to www.risingstarsbaseball.org.  

·         “Inclusive Education for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders” - April 19, 2010:  Plot a Course, Set Sail, Have a Guide, Keep Learning,” Presented by Dr. Dennis Mozingo, BCBA-D. Dr. Mozingo is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics in the Community Consultation Program of the Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities, Division of Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center. During this workshop, participants will learn how to plan for the inclusion of students with ASD in general education settings, prepare students for inclusion in ESE settings, support students with ASD in the general education setting, and monitor student performance. . All events listed run from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and are provided at no cost to participants. Registration information and location will be available soon!

·         “Using Video Based Interventions to Support Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders” - May 14, 2010: Presented by Dr. Linda LeBlanc, BCBA-D. Dr. Le Blanc is an Associate Professor in Psychology for the University of Auburn. Video modeling is an instructional technique that can be used to teach social skills, academic skills, and daily living skills and play skills to children with autism. This workshop will review the important components of effective video models, examine the research support for use of video models, and demonstrate ways to incorporate video when using other instructional procedures. . All events listed run from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and are provided at no cost to participants. Registration information and location will be available soon!

Flyers for these events can be accessed online @ http://www.hscj.ufl.edu/pediatrics/autism/calendar_events.asp

 

Ongoing Clinics & Programs:

Ø  CARD Toy Bank Program: UF-Jacksonville CARD would like to build a Toy Bank where families in need can get toys and educational materials for use with their child. Please consider donating any of your slightly or unused toys, books, educational items, folder games, visual supports, or other materials to our center to support other families. To donate, please drop your materials to the front office at: UF-Jacksonville CARD, 6271-1 St. Augustine Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32207, For more information please call 633-0760

Ø  Social Skills and Support Groups: Dr. Maria Tapia, Licensed Psychologist with the UF/Jacksonville's CARD program, runs several groups for adolescents and adults with Asperger Syndrome, as well as, for their siblings and mothers. If you are interested in joining any of these groups or gathering additional information, such as date, time and ages, please contact Dr. Tapia at maria.tapia@jax.ufl.edu or 633-0760.

 

Ø  Dr. Barker has developed a parent training program to address the topic of, “Learning to play with your child with autism.” Log onto http://card-usf.fmhi.usf.edu/online_training.asp and click on the PowerPoint presentation entitled: “Learning to play with your child with autism”. Be sure you have reviewed the appropriate directions which are attached to this update. If you are a parent or caregiver, download play training directions and if you are a professional or trainer, download play training professional letter. Please email mae.barker@jax.ufl.edu with any questions or concerns.

 

Ø  “Promoting Positive Behavior Change”: This clinic will be replacing the Positive Parenting series that was previously being run Dr. Mae Barker. This clinic is an overview of Pivotal Response, using reinforcement, addressing challenging behaviors and setting up the home environment. This would be great for families of children who have been recently diagnosed on the autism spectrum or parents of older children who simply need a refresher on the basics. Contact Dr. Barker at mae.barker@jax.ufl.edu.

 

Ø  “Behavioral Detective” Social Skills Camp: This clinic offered by Katrina Ressa, B.S., BCaBA, & Anthony Rhodes, M.S., CARD Educational Coordinators, is a 7-week long camp for children diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome or HFA ages 6-12.  This camp targets skills such as conversational skills, anger management, accepting making mistakes, being more flexible and more.  For more information on signing up for our spring camp, please contact Katrina at katrina.ressa@jax.ufl.edu.

 

Ø  Pre-K Social Skills Clinic:  This clinic, offered by Elise Bowers, M.A., CARD Educational Coordinator is offered in two sessions: emergent-language and verbal.  Parents will learn strategies for engaging their child, promoting communication and conversation, turn-taking, developing joint attention and other social skills.  Parents will also learn how to practice, prompt and reinforce their child’s socialization.  For more information, please contact Elise at elise.bowers@jax.ufl.edu.

 

Ø  Feeding and Eating Clinic for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Dr. Mae Barker is collaborating with Lori Allen, MS, CCC-SLP and Emilie Balkman, MPH, RD, LDN to provide a comprehensive feeding and eating clinic for individuals. Children and their caregivers are taught strategies to improve their eating habits, behavior surrounding feeding times and overall attitude towards food. Please contact Dr. Barker for more information and available clinic dates at mae.barker@jax.ufl.edu.

 

Ø  Two Feet Forward:  This clinic, offered by Anne Wilson, MST, BCaBA, CARD Educational Coordinator, is for parents of a student in transition.  During the meetings parents will learn about transition issues including IEPs & Transition IEPs, Self-Determination & Self-Advocacy, Portfolios, Interest Inventories & Assessments, Post-Secondary Options, Government Benefits, Service Providers & Changes in Services , Barriers, Work Related Issues, and much more!  For more information, please contact Anne at anne.wilson@jax.ufl.edu.

 

Ø  Discovering Capabilities:  This clinic will be offered by Anne Wilson, MST, BCaBA, CARD Educational Coordinator. This is a student and parent support group. Students discover who they are, what their strengths and talents are, what they want to do in the future, how will they get where they want to be, and who will provide their supports. Discovery provides direction for future career development. Information gathered is placed in a Student Profile for the purpose of sharing the information for job development.  The information guides the selection or creation of future jobs in the community. Discovery is for students: between the ages 16 – 19, in transition, planning their future or need guidance planning their future, developing a future plan, identifying individual strengths, needs, etc., writing goals, and identifying supports.  For more information, please contact Anne at anne.wilson@jax.ufl.edu. 

Idelio Valdez Award

Announcement from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council

 

The Council is searching for an individual with a developmental disability who is a strong leader and advocate. If you know of someone who meets these criteria, please go to the Council's website and complete a nomination form.  Deadline for  submitting nominations is Friday, February 19, 2010.

Idelio Valdes  Leadership Award

Idelio Valdes was a self-advocate who had a tremendous impact on the people around him and the community in which he lived and worked.  His life's journey included many ups and downs but he always stayed the course to self realization, commitment to service and dedication to the things that were of most value to him.  His demonstrated advocacy activities, his belief in building partnerships, his initiative in challenging the status quo and his enthusiasm for life and its possibilities endeared him to all who were fortunate enough to know him.  This award is dedicated to his memory.

Please go to the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council website at http://www.fddc.org/news/award-nomination-form [http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103034360503&s=541&e=001r8x4jbXr_pjmIQcylWHGSpT3aHm3VfwJXc694yAkSNOc4pdstk2t44SVyoaENicpm8Kc_jlhLk_NCIPny6se_xlJmc8VtMg9ZTGQAgtUOdd8krh0rA_W3KTp9oeHUpiOrUw9OOEfRY9LFgsWTZkxKA==]

to learn more about this award and to download a nomination form.

FEMA RELEASES DRAFT OF NATIONAL DISASTER RECOVERY FRAMEWORK

Announcement from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council

FEMA RELEASES DRAFT OF  NATIONAL DISASTER RECOVERY FRAMEWORK

COMMENTS DUE 2/26/10

The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the interagency Long Term Disaster Recovery Working
 Group, has issued a draft of the National Disaster Recovery Framework. The Recovery Framework is designed for all who are or might be involved in disaster recovery, and input  from individuals withdisabilities, their families,  and others is vitally important.

To read the Framework and to provide comments, go to

http://www.regulations.gov/search/Regs/home.html#documentDetail?R=0900006480a90bf8
[http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103030349233&s=541&e=001yjA3t4IHbSgYb9C67Kl42_qNYeoRQ5oOvY68NyhCRbfTbfKbL4dqd2guwWhOmgvTJ9yN-QAxMRre7qiUS7WUUSGdAQJOzIw-XZToY_pdV46zFlikCHvsYuS3SRBj05louH2jpJeuGx2mbiHD7bJs-bmlP8GSypyWRPGYbskX0uYtyrH1osG86RtQbA56zY_nVub6xkxeDHo=]
and click on the text of the proposed rule to read the text.  On the right side of the page you can provide your comments by clicking on "Submit Comment".  When you click on it, you'll see on the right side a portion for up to 2000 characters for comments.  Below it, you'll see a box where you can attach objects.

You may want to compile your comments in a document, then attach it before sending, either in the 2000 character box or the "attachment" box. Further details about the National Disaster Recovery Framework can be found at http://www.fema.gov/recoveryframework
[http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103030349233&s=541&e=001yjA3t4IHbSh3XRYd21Oa9k1elYfSJFFNbU1YpNhheEcf3jVemhuAzqEcWK9eCTFSucEH14l2YW6kFNtI_VGFP4-PQ8uLDO3ERV2wsykQJbJloGyVTXJcp6VCT2NL78Nz].
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA's Legislative Affairs Division at  (202) 646-4500.

Governor Crist's Task Force on Autism Spectrum Disorders

HealthyFloridians.com.  A great informational source with agendas, meetings, minutes with regard to recommendations in addressing ASD issues in the State of Florida.

Hope Haven Childrens Clinic and Family Center

HOPE HAVEN
Children's Clinic And Family Center
4600 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32207
Phone: (904) 346-5100  |  Fax: (904) 346-5111

Center for Autism and Related Diseases (Gainesville, FL)

CARD University of Florida - Gainesville
1405 NW 13th Street
Gainesville, FL 32601-4058
Toll Free 1-(800)-9-AUTISM or Local (352)-273-0581
Fax: (352)846-3703
Email: card-info@ufl.edu

Center for Autism and Related Diseases (Jacksonville)

UF College of Medicine-Jacksonville
Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD)
6271 St. Augustine Rd., Suite 1
Jacksonville, FL 32217
Phone: (904) 633-0760 or
1-800-9-AUTISM
Fax: (904) 633-0751

Seeking "Applied Behavior Analysts" in the Northeast Florida Region

Licensed ABA's.  for children and adults with autism in Duval, Clay, St. Johns, Baker and Nassau counties in Northeast Florida.

If you would like a write up on my blog, please send me your information and specialty.  If you have a business card or website, please do include.

Send to basorem@gmail.com.

Please spread the word also to your colleagues in your area.  My aim is to provide a "one-stop" website for Northeast Florida for all services and business establishments who cater or are accommodating to families and people with Autism (child or adult).  In other words, I am picking up all the confetti scattered across the web and piling up neatly on this site.  I am hoping my site will make life a bit easier for those who are seeking information.  I hope you can help!

Thank you!