the asbc news€¦ · we do not necessarily endorse the information printed in this newsletter. the...
TRANSCRIPT
The purpose of this newsletter is to provide information regarding Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and related disorders.
We do not necessarily endorse the information printed in this newsletter.
The ASBC News June - July 2013
Honestly
Autism
Day!
April 20th
Calendar Close-up
Our support group meetings are held the first Thursday of each month at
Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital. Meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. Direc-
tions to the meeting site are included on the last page of this newsletter.
Note that the July meeting will be on the second Thursday of the month - July 11th -
rather than the first Thursday which is the Fourth of July!
July 11th and August 1st Support Group Meetings
These meetings will be our regular, ASBC board member-led support groups. We will
begin with general announcements about upcoming activities, followed by individual in-
troductions and the invitation to share one “golden moment” you’ve experienced during
the previous month. Following that, we have time for questions and follow-up discussion
as well as further opportunity for group support and socializing.
Looking Ahead . . .
The 4th Annual Autism Society of Baltimore Golf Tournament!
Friday, September 27th at Quail Valley Golf Club
(9:00 am start, ahhh . . .)
The First-Ever Poker Tournament to Benefit ASBC!
November 2nd in Reisterstown
Look for more information on these events in your inbox
and in the next edition of The ASBC News!
Has your child just recently been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder?
Feeling a bit lost and needing some extra support?
We’ve been there ourselves, and want to help. Our meetings feature a break-out session for
parents/caretakers of newly-diagnosed children where you can ask questions and get help in
a smaller group setting.
Editor: Jenny Phillips
June 24 Kennedy Krieger Workshop: Getting an Autism Spectrum Disorder Diag-
nosis: Where do I go from here?, Greenspring Campus, 9:30 a.m.
June 24 Kennedy Krieger Workshop: What is transition planning for a teen
with an ASD diagnosis?, Greenspring Campus, 1:00 p.m.
June 26 Sense-sational Story Time, Woodlawn, 10:00 a.m.
June 28 Women’s Group, Towson, 6:00 p.m.
June 29 Mini-Golf Day, Parkton, 10:00 a.m.
June 29 Smithsonian Institute’s Morning at the Mall, Washington D.C., 10:00 a.m.
June 29 AS/AMC Sensory Friendly Film: Monsters University, White Marsh,
10:00 a.m.
July 3 Kennedy Krieger Workshop: Using Visuals for Children with ASD: The Do’s and Don’ts,
Greenspring Campus, 11:30 a.m.
July 3 Moms Understand: The Arc Baltimore Moms Support Group, Towson, 6:30 p.m.
July 7 A Sensory Morning at The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, 9:00 a.m.
July 9 ASBC Adults with Autism Resource Group (AARG), Towson, 7:00 p.m.
July 11 ASBC Support Group, Mt. Washington, 7:00 p.m.
July 12 Women’s Group, Towson, 6:00 p.m.
July 13 Parents’ Day Out, Baltimore, 9:00 a.m.
July 13 AS/AMC Sensory Friendly Film: Despicable Me 2, White Marsh, 10:00 a.m.
July 16 The Arc Baltimore’s Family Networking Picnic, Towson, 4:00 p.m.
July 18 Guy Talk: The Arc Baltimore Support Group for Fathers, Towson, 6:30 p.m.
July 19 Adults with Autism Social Group, Towson, 6:00 p.m.
July 13 Parents’ Day Out, Cockeysville, 9:00 a.m.
July 24 Sense-sational Story Time, Woodlawn, 10:00 a.m.
July 26 ASBC Water Tubing Social, Monkton, 12:00 p.m.
July 26 Women’s Group, Towson, 6:00 p.m.
July 28 ASBC Wine Tasting Social, Boordy Vineyards, Hydes, 1:00 p.m.
Aug 1 ASBC Support Group, Mt. Washington, 7:00 p.m.
Aug 7 Kennedy Krieger Workshop: From ASD to Working in the Field: A Personal and Profes-
sional Journey from Disability to Being a Therapeutic Professional, Baltimore, 11:30 a.m.
Aug 7 Moms Understand: The Arc Baltimore Moms Support Group, Towson, 6:30 p.m.
Aug 10 AS/AMC Sensory Friendly Film: The Smurfs 2, White Marsh, 10:00 a.m.
Aug 13 ASBC Adults with Autism Resource Group (AARG), Towson, 7:00 p.m.
Calendar of Events
Inside this
Issue
Details, Details 4
Essays 10
Ask Victoria 18
Sensory
Friendly Movie 19
For updated events information, visit the ASBC calendar at
www.autismsocietybaltimore.org
Monday, June 24, 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.
Kennedy Krieger Workshop: Getting an ASD Diagnosis: Where do I go from here? The Center for Autism and Related Disorders at Kennedy Krieger Institute hosts this event for parents of
children who have recently received an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. Cathy Groschan, LCSW-C,
leads this discussion and takes your questions about getting a diagnosis, finding services, the education
system and more. Open to parents and professionals. No fee. Location: Center for Autism and Related
Disorders, 3901 Greenspring Avenue. For more information: Stacey Duvall, 443-923-7680. Please visit
the website to register: http://kennedykriegercard.eventbrite.com.
Monday, June 24, 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.
Kennedy Krieger Workshop: What is transition planning for a teen with an ASD diagnosis?
Children on the autism spectrum often struggle during down-time. The Center for Autism and Related
Disorders at Kennedy Krieger Institute hosts this presentation for parents who have teens with ASD
and are planning for a transition from school to college, employment, and/or community. Resources
will be shared. Presenter: Cathy Groschan, LCSW-C. No fee. Location: 3901 Greenspring Avenue,
Baltimore. For more information: Stacey Duvall, 443-923-7680. Please visit the website to register:
http://kennedykriegercard.eventbrite.com.
Wednesday, June 26, 10:00 a.m.
Sense-sational Story Time
The Woodlawn Branch of the Baltimore County Public Libraries welcomes children with special needs
and their families or caregivers to a supportive, nonjudgmental story time with a playtime afterwards.
Location: 1811 Woodlawn Drive. For more information: 410-887-1336 or www.bcplonline.org.
Friday, June 28, 6:00 p.m.
Women’s Group
Young women from the community meet with staff and student facilitators at the Hussman Center for
Adults with Autism at Towson University to participate in fun activities and discuss issues specific to
young women on the autism spectrum, including women’s health, relationship building, coping with peer
pressure, self-expression and self-advocacy. This program is open to all, with free admission. Some ac-
tivities may take place at venues outside of the Center; these activities may have a cost, which
is the responsibility of the participants. Transportation is not provided by the Center. Lo-
cation: Institute for Well-Being, Room 214, One Olympic Place, Towson. For more in-
formation: Amy Rinnier, 410-704-4486 or [email protected].
Saturday, June 29, 10:00 a.m.
FREE Mini-Golf Day in Parkton!
Sponsored by Ravens Roost 118 and Pathfinders for Autism. Option to play 9 or 18
holes. Maximum of 4 people per group. Each child must be accompanied by an adult.
Minimum age to play: 5 years old. Awards will be given once play is finished. Space
is available on a first come, first served basis. No fee to participate. Location: Hereford Golf Center,
17110 York Road, Parton. For more information and to register: [email protected].
Saturday, June 29, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
The Smithsonian Institute’s Morning at the Mall
Morning at the Mall is an event designed to introduce children with cognitive & sensory processing dis-
abilities to the Annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival! Festival opens to public at 11:00 a.m. Location:
National Mall, D.C. RSVP: [email protected], 202-633-2921. Festival website: www.festival.si.edu.
DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS . . . (ABOUT THE CALENDAR ITEMS)
Page 4
Saturday, June 29, 10:00 a.m.
Autism Society/AMC Entertainment Sensory Friendly Film
Monsters University. See flyer on Page 19 for details.
Wednesday, July 3, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Kennedy Krieger Workshop: Using Visuals for Children with ASD: The Do’s and Don’ts
This training will provide caregivers with an overview regarding the importance of using visuals for chil-
dren with ASD, strategies for effective implementation of those visuals from a behavioral framework, and
common mistakes that are made when attempting to incorporate visuals into daily life. Caregivers will
not only be provided with techniques for appropriate implementation based on a variety of needs, but also
be provided with specific models to use with their own children. Presenters: Daniel Gadke, Ph.D. and
Kasee Stratton, Ph.D., both post-doctoral fellows at Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Pediatric Developmental
Disabilities clinic in the department of Behavioral Psychology. Open to parents and professionals. No
fee. Location: 3901 Greenspring Avenue, Baltimore. For more information: Stacey Duvall, 443-923-
7680. Please visit the website to register: http://kennedykriegercard.eventbrite.com.
Wednesday, July 3, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Moms Understand: The Arc Baltimore Moms Support Group
A support group for moms only with discussion of the challenges and joys of having a child with a devel-
opmental disability. Please bring food to share. Meets the first Wednesday of every month. Location:
The Arc Baltimore, 7215 York Road, Towson. For more information: Dianna Morgan, 410-296-2272
x5347 or visit www.arcofbaltimore.org.
Sunday, July 7, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
A Sensory Morning at The Walters Art Museum Enjoy free family fun when your entire family is invited to visit The Walters Art Museum
to experience the museum before the doors open to the public. Enjoy an art activity in a
private studio, with adjoining space for quiet time and sensory breaks. Take a self-guided
tour and take part in hands-on activities. Accommodations will be made in consideration of
unique sensory needs. Visual supports, tactile activities, sensory breaks, hand fidgets, and
opportunities for guidance and structured support will be available throughout the galleries.
Pre-registration is required. To register, email [email protected].
Friday, July 12, 6:00 p.m.
Women’s Group
Please see June 28th listing for more details.
Saturday, July 13, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Parents’ Day Out
Offered by The Arc Baltimore in collaboration with St. Matthew Catholic Church. For parents or guardi-
ans of children ages 3 to 14 who have an Intellectual or Developmental Disability. A nurse will be on
site, and snacks will be provided. No charge but you must pre-register by July 10th. Space is limited.
Location: St. Matthew Church, 5401 Loch Raven Boulevard, Baltimore. For more information and to
register: Becky Hartnet, 410-296-2272 x5309 or [email protected].
Saturday, July 13, 10:00 a.m.
Autism Society/AMC Entertainment Sensory Friendly Film
Despicable Me 2. Universal Pictures presents this sequel to the wildly successful 2010 animated picture
following Gru, the ex-scheming evildoer-turned-parental figure; who has now been recruited by the Anti-
Villain League to help deal with a powerful new super criminal. Rated PG.
Page 5
DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS . . . (CONTINUED)
Tuesday, July 16, 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
The Arc Baltimore’s Family Networking Picnic
Enjoy a relaxing time networking with other families while enjoying a barbeque dinner and games for the
kids. Rain date Wednesday, July 17. Location: 7215 York Road, Towson. RSVP to: Becky Hartnett,
410-296-2272 x5308, [email protected].
Thursday, July 18, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Guy Talk: The Arc Baltimore Support Group for Fathers
A support group for dads only with discussion of the challenges and joys of having a child with a devel-
opmental disability. Meets the third Thursday of every month. Location: The Arc Baltimore, 7215 York
Road, Towson. For more info: Dorothea Nikas, 410-296-2272 x5349 or visit www.arcofbaltimore.org.
Friday, July 19, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Adults with Autism Social Group
The Hussman Center for Adults with Autism at Towson University provides the opportunity for young
adults on the autism spectrum to socialize in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. It is open to all, and a
small membership fee is assessed to cover the costs of the program. Please bring a snack to share. Cost:
$3 fee per person, per meeting OR $15 fee per semester OR $25 fee per year. Location: Institute for
Well-Being, Room 214, One Olympic Place, Towson. For more information: Amy Rinnier, 410-704-
4486 or [email protected].
Saturday, July 20, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Parents’ Day Out
Offered by The Arc Baltimore in collaboration with St. Joseph Cockeysville Catholic Church. For par-
ents or guardians of children ages 3 to 14 who have an Intellectual or Developmental Disability. Siblings
welcomed. A nurse will be on site, and snacks will be provided. No charge but you must pre-register by
July 17th. Space is limited. Location: St. Joseph Cockeysville Catholic Church, 105 Church Lane,
Cockeysville. FMI & to register: Becky Hartnet, 410-296-2272 x5309 or [email protected].
Wednesday, July 24, 10:00 a.m.
Sense-sational Story Time
Please see June 26th listing for more details.
Friday, July 26, 6:00 p.m.
Women’s Group
Please see June 28th listing for more details.
Page 6
DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS . . . (CONTINUED)
Autism Society’s Options Policy . . .
Just a reminder that the Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake adheres to the Autism Soci-
ety’s options policy that states no single type of program or service will fill the needs of every
individual with autism and that each person should have access to support services. At the
very core of parent choice philosophy is the belief that no single program or treatment will
benefit all individuals with autism. Providing information and education to help in decision-
making are more highly regarded at the Autism Society than is advocating for one particular
theory or philosophy.
Wednesday, August 7, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Kennedy Krieger Workshop: From ASD to Working in the Field: A Personal and Professional
Journey from Disability to Being a Therapeutic Professional
This presentation looks at the highlights of becoming a neurodevelopmental professional, and reflects on
the relationship of the helping professions to people with ASD. Presenter: Michael Shor, MSW; B.A.
Psychology; B.A. Consciousness Studies and an individual with Asperger’s syndrome. Open to parents
and professionals. No fee. Location: 3901 Greenspring Avenue, Baltimore. For more information: Sta-
cey Duvall, 443-923-7680. Please visit the website to register: http://kennedykriegercard.eventbrite.com.
Wednesday, August 7, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Moms Understand: The Arc Baltimore Moms Support Group
Please see July 3rd listing for more details.
Saturday, August 10, 10:00 a.m.
Autism Society/AMC Entertainment Sensory Friendly Film
The Smurfs 2. The Smurfs team up with their human friends to rescue Smurfette, who has been kid-
napped by Gargamel since she knows a secret spell that can turn the evil sorcerer’s newest creation -
creatures called the Naughties - into real Smurfs. Film not yet rated.
DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS . . . (CONTINUED)
Page 7
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
In looking over the Calendar (or anywhere else . . .), do you see a workshop or seminar you really want
to attend but really can’t afford to at present? Keep in mind that each year, current ASBC paid members
are able to access funds to offset the cost of trainings, conferences, or workshop attendance. These funds
are available from the Charles Fowler, Sr. Memorial Fund. To utilize these funds, submit a request
before the event detailing the date, the event and funds requested. After the training, submit a copy of
the registration form to ASBC, P.O. Box 10822, Baltimore, MD 21234 or info@BaltimoreAutism
Society.org and reimbursement will be mailed to you.
Teleconferencing Available for Support Group Meetings
If you can't come to the Autism Society's monthly support group,
please join us by telephone. Any time after 6:55 pm on support
group meeting evening, call toll-free 1-877-594-8353. You will be
prompted to enter a participant code, followed by the pound sign (#). The partici-
pant code is 94378086. You will be asked to state your name (if you prefer not to
leave your name, just say “Pass”). That’s it! You’re now in the meeting. To mute
your call, press *6; to un-mute it, press *6 again. For more details about the tele-
conferencing procedure, visit the meetings and groups page on our website:
www.baltimoreautismsociety.org/calendar-of-events/meetings-groups.
“Hear” you at the next meeting!
~ Stephanie Savick, Co-ordinator
Have We Got A Social for You and Your Family!
Monthly Socials for 2013
Page 8
Check our website for details:
http://www.baltimoreautismsociety.org/calendar-of-events/family-activities
My Half-Marathon for ASBC by Stacey Parson, ASBC Member
My son Garret is 13 and has Asperger's. His transi-
tion to middle school was a very difficult one, and
the support group meetings were incredibly helpful
to me during that time. It's so helpful to connect
with people who really understand what it's like to
have a child on the spectrum.
Friday, July 26, 12:00 p.m. - ? Water Tubing on the Gunpowder Falls
Sunday, July 28, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Wine Tasting (for Adults Only!) - Boordy
Vineyards, Hydes
Sunday, September 22 Family Fun Day at Oregon Ridge
October Annual Bowling Social
November Build-a-Bear Workshop Social
December Swim Social
I started running 3 years ago, and only wanted to complete a 5K. At that point I said I would never run any distance as long as a half-marathon. Gradually I've fallen in love with running, and have con-tinued to creep upward in distance. I'm thankful to have the strength and energy to run, as well as a hus-band (Chad) who is supportive of the time I spend running (and still cheers me on at every race).
My time for the race was 2:08:53, which was slower than I wanted it to be, but I'm glad it still resulted in a 50% match from my husband. One woman who was running near me at one point in the race saw my sign and told me that she her son was also on the spectrum and we chatted for a few minutes about our chil-dren.
Welcome, New Members
Join Us on the Journey
The chapter extends a warm wel-
come to anyone who recently at-
tended their first support group
meeting. The Autism Society exists
as a resource for parents or anyone
involved with a child or adult diag-
nosed with autism. We understand
the challenges of autism and are here
to help in any way we can. We hope
to see you at our next meeting!
Upcoming AARG! Meeting
The next meeting of the Adult Autism Resource
Group will be on July 9th from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
AARG, a sub-group of ASBC, meets the second
Tuesday of every month at the home of Ellen
Feifarek to work on issues that concern adults
and transition-age youth with autism. Call Linda
Pearl at 410-526-5406, if you are planning to
attend for the first time.
The Autism Society of Baltimore Chesa-peake depends entirely upon support and participation from the membership. Please consider joining a committee: Advocacy, Education, Support, Membership or Mar-
keting/PR. Please call our support line (410-655-7933) or email us at [email protected] to learn how you can help. Did you Know?
We are able to accept donations
and memberships electronically
using PayPal from our website
www.BaltimoreAutismSociety.org.
Please remember to leave a mes-
sage in the field "add special in-
structions for the seller" with any
details regarding your donation or
membership.
If you are uncertain as to
the status of your member-
ship please send an email to
or call our phone line (410-655-7933)
and we can let you know if your mem-
bership is current. Our membership
year runs from May 1st to April 30th.
Can’t ReMember
if You’re a Member?
We know you’ve always liked us,
but now you can Like us on Facebook!
Autism Society of Baltimore Chesapeake
Page 9
Do you want to find out where your child
is on the Autism Waiver Registry?
Call 1-866-417-3480
Page 10
HERE ARE SOME OF THE WINNING ENTRIES
FROM OUR AUTISM AWARENESS ESSAY CONTEST
We had many excellent entries, and deciding among them was quite a challenge.
Congratulations to the talented individuals who won, and thank you to
all of the participants for sharing with us!
We will publish the remaining winning entries in the next edition of The ASBC News
Fancy Brain
Winner: Individual with Autism Category
My name is Joanna Elizabeth Shang. I am in 3rd grade.
My favorite color is pink. I like Punch Buggies. Chocolate is my favorite food. Cats are
my favorite animal. I have a cat. Her name is Sugar. I like to read. I like to play doll-
house and Calico Critters. I play school with my American girl doll. My favorite music to
listen to is Beethoven. I like to do swimming lessons. On Wednesday I go to Brownies.
On Thursday I go to gymnastics. I travel to Chicago and Durham North Carolina.
I have a Fancy Brain. The doctor name for Fancy Brain is autism spectrum disor-
der. I think Fancy Brain would mean difference. I have challenges. I think these are
my challenges. I have challenges in math so I need to practice. I don’t like loud noises.
I am a picky eater. Some clothes feel itchy. Writing about books is hard. Spelling is
easy for me. It is easy to memorize things. I feel happy about having a Fancy Brain.
This I Believe: My Sister and Me By Aaron Thoms-Chesley
Winner: Sibling Category
May 28, 1997. This was the day that would dramatically change my life forever. I would
come to know this day as my sister Victoria’s birthday. Not a big deal I bet most people would say.
But it is a big deal. A bigger deal than most people can say they have had, for they don’t have a fam-
ily member with a life altering disorder like my sister. My sister has Rett syndrome.
My sister has never been normal. Her brain just won’t let her. Even as a baby she was differ-
ent. She can’t speak, run, and move like we do, her hands don’t function properly, and so on. My
life has been deeply affected by her.
My sister is 15, and I’m 13. I’ve had to take the big brother role into play. I’ve had to be
there for my younger brothers, instead of my sister. I’ve had to be her voice, for she has none.
Sometimes it can be very stressful, and I wish she was normal. I wonder what my life would be like
if she was normal. Sometimes I wish this had never happened to my family. (continued on next page)
When I was in elementary school, I never wanted to invite people over to my house in fear of being
teased and embarrassed. I knew of no one but myself with someone like my sister. I eventually in-
vited my friends over and it went well. I felt as if a boulder had been lifted off my body and I could
finally breathe. Even though this was a relief I only invited 3 people over. They were my true
friends and they still are to this day. When I told them about my sister the day before each came
over, they seemed fine. I hoped in my heart that they wouldn’t judge her or tease her because of
her disability and difference from a normal person. I still don’t know to this day what they thought
of my sister when they saw her, a person who’s been stared at all too frequently.
My sister has caretakers that feed, bathe, and take care of her out to places. Sometimes I
would go with her to the mall, her favorite place to be. When my sister is happy she’ll screech or
“yell” loudly. That’s one way to get a whole group of people at Whitemarsh Mall to stare you down,
like a bunch of wolves staring at their prey. I wish she could go out one day without being judged or
stared at. Maybe one day when the world opens its eyes and sees that not everyone has to be the
same.
Whenver I went to the mall with her, I’d always stay ahead of her, not next to her. I’d almost
“blend in with the crowd” whenever she’d screech. It’s almost cruel to Victoria, but then again I
didn’t want to be embarrassed. But did she know she was embarrassing me? Or did she just think
she was fine and being like everyone else? Would she have stopped?
Whenever some stared at my sister, I’d say mean things about them under my breath. That
was my way of handling things. It would help me feel like I was sticking up for her even though I
wasn’t really. Looking back I almost feel like a coward. I should’ve done something.
Due to my sisters disability my brothers and I have never gotten the full attention of my par-
ents. We’ve always had to wait for their attention and usually it wasn’t long. My family has never
had full out vacations due to Victoria. We’ve only gone on vacation 3 times, at the same spot, an
hour from our house, and Victoria’s had to stay back. As I sit at this table writing this paper, I won-
der if Victoria would like to go away from this house on vacation.
Even with the shortage of time, I’ve always gotten more than her. Everyone in my family has.
I have tons of friends. What does she have? The sad answer is that my sister can’t have friends at
all. How can she? She can’t talk to anybody, and the way she does communicate with us is when
she smiles and cries. She seems to do both easily enough, especially crying. Are the tears running
down her face because she knows she’s different or because she knows she’ll never be normal?
Does she wish she could be normal? Or does she just simply want to be seen as normal and not
judged? I wish she could tell us this. Maybe if she could her life wouldn’t be so difficult.
Even if she could talk her life would still be difficult. This is due to the fact that lots of peo-
ple wouldn’t be able to accept her. The other reason is the word retard. My sister might not be
able to talk but she can hear, and I can too. That word is so offensive to her. The thing is, people
say it every day and don’t even know what it means. They think it means the same thing as the word
stupid. This really hurts my heart, knowing that people are making fun of Victoria without even
knowing it. Does she know what they’re really saying? I hope she doesn’t. It would break her to
pieces.
I love my sister with all my heart even though she’s different from everyone else.
A single piece can only put the puzzle together partially. A single song doesn’t
define an album. This I believe.
Saturdays at the College By Marcia Hill
Winner: Professionals Category
OK, so I do this project for my class. Gotta get that degree.
She said, “Come join in. Watch. Learn.”
Yeah, I see those kids playing.
Toys and kids and it all looks like camp.
I can do this. Get my extra credit. Go my way.
Everything seems fine.
But they’re . . . different.
You all know different.
Different’s not like anyone in your family.
Not in your class or your club or at your job.
Different doesn’t play on your team.
Different doesn’t look at you when you talk.
Different wants to play, but can’t ask to join.
Different can get frustrated easily and screams or cries. Loudly.
Different doesn’t like to take turns or share.
Different doesn’t like bright lights or loud noises.
Different likes to play with the same thing over and over and over again.
And I learned why this happened:
Well, see nobody knows. It’s no one’s fault.
There was no crime.
9-1-1 was never called. No police report.
No compensation.
No way to appeal.
It’s just the club for 1 in 88.
It’s the A-Club.
It’s Autism.
And I learned this about Autism:
Autism can find his name on a sticker and put it on his shirt.
Autism can read and do math.
Autism may not talk, but can understand what you say.
Autism wants friends, but finds it hard to keep them.
Autism can tell you the date of a Saturday 3 months from now.
Autism can be really good at repeating what you say.
Autism can hug you tighter than expected from someone you just met.
Autism can print better than a teacher, spell almost anything, but not be able to write a story.
Autism likes to ride in a wagon--with a stuffed gorilla, of course.
Autism likes trains, balls, wheels, and things that go around and around, and around . . . forever ..
And I learned this from the “A-Club”:
Autism might make you tell your class about the kids. So tell everyone.
Autism might make you take more notice of kids that are special. So notice them all.
Autism might change your future, your career plans, your life. So, change them all.
OK, come to get your extra credit points, but don’t leave being the same person
you were when you arrived.
I know you won’t.
See you next week.
Page 13
Page 14
ASBC EXTENDS OUR HEARTFELT THANKS
TO THESE RECENT DONORS
In Memory of
Susanne Hartman Byerly
Helen and Emil Budri
John and Ruth Kazanzides
In Memory of
Larry Gene Wilson
Helen and P.J. Shafer
In Honor of
Corey Branch
The Garden Club of
Greater Baltimore
In Honor of the 60th Birthday
of Ellen Marmer
Paul L. Efros
Carol Brown
Margaret Curtis
Joan Glaser
Elisa Hartman
Monty and Libby Knittle
Emily Kuchinsky
Ellen Mering
Stacey Parson
Naomi Ritter-Cantesanu
Mary B. Schaefer
Elizabeth Simon-Higgs
Heather and Alan Thoms-Chesley
Autism Insurance Reform in Maryland
Did you know that Maryland already has a law mandating the coverage of Speech, Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy for autism? What's missing is behav-ioral therapies which will be added to the law on November 1, 2013! There is still
much to be done to improve insurance coverage for autism services in Maryland, but it is doable!
On June 20th the Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake hosted an information night to educate the community on where Maryland is, where we are headed, and how we can make a difference in autism insurance reform in Maryland. The overview was led by Judith Ursitti, Director of State Government affairs with Autism Speaks, and Rebecca Rienzi, Executive Director of Pathfinders for Autism. They were joined by State Delegate Ariana Kelly and State Senator Katherine Klausmeier who shared valuable insight into the progress being made and the work to be done. You can access the power point presentation that was shown at the meeting by visiting this link:
http://www.baltimoreautismsociety.org/calendar-of-events/educationseminars/
Be sure to join our mailing list to learn about the next steps in this process and to stay informed. We will be developing our partnership with Pathfinders and Autism Speaks to get this thing done! Stay tuned!
Is there someone you’d like to thank but don’t know how? Was someone
kind to you or your child during a particularly difficult moment? Is there
someone in your life who lovingly provides the support you or your child
needs or goes out of their way to show kindness? Do you want to thank an
aid, an assistant, a service provider, a teacher, an organization, or a member
of the community with a meaningful gift? The Pat on the Back Award is
for those special people that do the big as well as the seemingly small things
that make a huge difference in the lives of people and families living with the
challenges of autism.
Jenn Lohse
“In late 2012, Jenn instituted swim lessons for children on the spectrum
at Michael Phelps Swim School. With sensitivity and understanding,
she scheduled the lessons at a quiet time, with great teachers. In
2013, she secured a Pathfinders for Autism Grant to reduce the cost
for families. Jenn is wonderful! Thanks for supporting our families!”
-Michelle Landrum , Parent
& ASBC Board Member
The Pat on the Back Award Recognizing Kindness, Dedication and Commitment
to the Autism Community
Do you know someone who deserves a Pat on the Back Award?
Visit www.baltimoreautismsociety.org or call 410-655-7933
for more information.
A special thank you goes out to Jenn Krempecki and Scott Wunder
who made a donation to the Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake
on behalf of the guests of their wedding held on June 22, 2013.
Here’s a portion of the note Jenn sent along with the donation:
I was a part of the Towson University co-hort who helped to
plan a Family Fun Day at Oregon Ridge two years ago. This event left a last-
ing impact on me and really helped her to see a different side of families of
children with autism. Although a teacher who works with students with au-
tism, seeing families coming together and having an evening of fun really left
an impression on me. We hope that this donation will be able to help the or-
ganization to do more great things for families!!
Thank you for all that you continue to do to help families!!
~ Jenn Krempecki and Scott Wunder
Congratulations and Best Wishes to you, Jenn and Scott, from ASBC!
We have been blessed this year with a flurry of donations from an amazing variety of
fundraisers organized by many generous (and creative!) individuals & businesses:
The Inaugural Tennis Ball, held
on February 23rd at the Crowne Plaza
in Timonium, raised $2,500 for the
Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake. One
hundred tennis players from the Baltimore area
enjoyed dinner and dancing while celebrating
all things tennis. ASBC was honored to benefit
from their generosity.
For the second year in a row, Angie King
raised funds for ASBC by holding a mam-
moth car wash and fundraiser at Applebee’s
in Towson. Not only did the event produce
a lot more clean cars, but the monies raised
have produced a lot more con-
nected and supported families
in the autism community!
We received a completely unex-
pected donation from Niles,
Barton & Wilmer, LLP. Their
gift represented the proceeds of
Jeans Day held on April 26th at the law firm!
Stella & Dot stylist Laurie Syphard
donated 75% of her commission for
the month of April to ASBC in honor
of Autism Awareness Month!
Carlo’s Italian Bistro in Cockeysville, in conjunction with Robbie’s Firstbase of Luther-ville, celebrated Autism Aware-ness Month with a fundraiser in April. Fifteen percent of the res-
taurant’s proceeds and a portion of the proceeds of a silent auction of sports memorabilia were donated to the Autism Society!
Page 18
Ask Victoria
Welcome to a new column in The ASBC News featuring one of our mem-
bers. If you would like to Ask Victoria a question about living with au-
tism, please send it to [email protected] with “Ask Vic-
toria” in the subject line. We will print Victoria’s replies to the ques-
tions in future editions.
"I am not a puzzle, I am a person."
“Hello, my name is Victoria. i am an autistic adult. i was diagnosed with autism, at
age 3. i use an APP on my iPad, called proloqro, to communicate. do to autism, I
cannot process spoken speach like most people, this means, that I cannot under-
stand, or answer multiple choice questions. that is, when they are spoken. this in-
cludes spoken instructions as well. much like temple grandin, i think in pictur,
video format I am most definitely not an auditory learner. to handle business call,
or calls where someone is either in a loud or busy place, i either use my video
phone, clear caption, or my TTY. but sometimes i don't need to, and can speak on
the phone, with none of it. but then i understand very little of what is said. while i
am on the lower end of the autism spectrum, my daughter is on the higher end.
my daughter is verbal. she is smart and in a regular class. i was not. if they would
have tried to main streem me, that wouldn't have worked. not even a little. I CAN-
NOT KEEP STILL, FOR EVEN A SECOND. I WOULD HAVE BEEN GRABBING EVERY-
THING THAT I COULD HAVE. and this would only be, when i wasn't running around
the room, out of the door, or worst of all, dancing and or jumping on the desks.
Because, be leave me, some of that if not all of that would have happened. but i am
smart too. i can hear a song, and sing it after hearing it 1 time. i can see a dance
routine, and learn it after 1 time. or coriagraph a routine, while listening to a song.
I started studying the different viewpoints of autism at about 16 years old I did
this because I had always known that something was different about me but I had-
n't been told that I was autistic until I was 16. And I had to pretty much demand
answers even then. And up until very recently I had not met anybody who did not
view Autism as the worst thing in the world. However I never felt that way. I have
always celebrated the fact that I was different. I thought the fact that I could relate
and identify with the lower functioning children in my school was awesome! I did
not then and I still to this day do Not understand why children and adults that are
Autistic need to be fixed. We are not broken we just learn and think and live differ-
ently As a nonverbal autistic adult, I can do pretty much anything I need to do.
Sometimes with help, sometimes on my own. But I am not trapped or locked in the
body that I want to get out of desperately. I do not suffer from AUTISM I enjoyed
it. I can do things because of my autism, that I would not be able to do if I were
not autistic. I am not a puzzle, I am a person. And I will let people in on how I live,
if they ask me. Apostle cannot do this.”
AUTISM IS NOT A DISEASE! I AM AN AUTISM ADVOCATE, WRITER, AND SPEAKER. IF
YOU WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MORE, OR WANT ME TO COME SPEAK, CALL ME AT 443-
682-8862 OR LEAVE ME A MESSAGE OR TEXT ME AT 410-417-6676.
Sensory-Friendly showing of:
Monsters University
Take a trip back in time to when star Monsters, Inc. employees Mike Wazowski and James P. “Sulley” Sullivan were just two promising young students at Monsters University in this frightfully fun Disney/Pixar prequel. Rated G.
Saturday, June 29th 10 a.m.
AMC Theatres® and the Autism Society have teamed up to bring families affected by autism a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a
safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis.
With Sensory Friendly Films, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up, the sound will be turned down
and the film will start promptly at 10:00 a.m. (there will be no previews of coming attractions before the film).
Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake 410-655-7933
www.BaltimoreAutismSociety.org
For tickets to this unique experience, please visit the theatre’s box office the day of the event.
AMC Loews White Marsh 16 8141 Honeygo Boulevard
Baltimore, Maryland 21236 410-933-9428
AMC Columbia Mall 14 10300 Little Patuxent Parkway
Columbia, Maryland 21044 410-423-0510
Page 19
Officers and Board Members
Co-Presidents: Debbie Page & David Savick
Past President: Heather Thoms-Chesley
Vice President: Andy Parsley
Treasurer: Jenny Phillips
Secretary: Helen Shafer
Board Members: Stacy Israel
Michelle Landrum
Pete Roth
Paul Rouhana
Stephanie Savick
P.J. Shafer
Heidi Shoemaker
Ketia Stokes
Mike Thomas
Reyes Vera
Newsletter: Mary Ellen Curtis
Website: David Savick
Chapter Phone: 410-655-7933
Website: www.baltimoreautismsociety.org
E-mail: [email protected]
Support Group Meeting
The next support group meeting will be Thursday,
July 11th at 7:00 p.m. at Mount Washington Pediatric
Hospital. Support group meets on the first Thursday
of every month. Childcare is not available.
Directions to Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital:
FROM NORTH OF BALTIMORE:
Take the Beltway (I-695) to the Jones Falls Express-
way (I-83) south. From I-83, take the Northern Park-
way exit, 10B West. Make a right turn off the exit
ramp and make an immediate right turn onto West
Rogers Ave. (the first street off the exit ramp). Go
north on West Rogers Ave.; the hospital is on the right.
FROM BALTIMORE AND SOUTH:
Take the Jones Falls Expressway (I-83) north to the
second Northern Parkway exit, 10B West. Turn right
onto West Rogers Ave. (which is just past the on-ramp
from southbound I-83). Go north on West Rogers Ave-
nue; the hospital is on the right.
ANNUAL DUES: $10.00
MEMBERSHIP FORM
AUTISM SOCIETY OF BALTIMORE-CHESAPEAKE
Name: ______________________________ Telephone: _____________
Address: ___________________________________________________
City/State/Zip: ______________________________________________
E-mail (required for newsletter delivery): _______________________
Child’s Name: _______________ Child’s Birthday: _________________
Child’s School or Program (Optional): ____________________________
If you prefer to receive a hard copy of the chapter newsletter by mail,
please check here ____ and add an additional $10 to your dues payment
to help offset the cost of printing and mailing.
Additional donation to ASBC: ___________ Thank You!
Make checks payable to ASBC and mail to:
ASBC, P.O. Box 10822, Baltimore, MD 21234
Please note:
ASBC does not share
information on our
members with any
other organization