So many times, I get links and news updates about everything horrible that happened to an individual with specials needs.  It ranges from obscene tales of abuse to limited almost, criminal lack of access to services.  What a downer!  I know that these things are happening and no you can't put your head in the sand, but do you only want to read that…

http://www.autism-society.org/get-involved/events/sensory-friendly-films

The Smurfs was one of my daughters favorites when she was a child.  I looked at the trailer and I think this is a fun movie.  I hope to see this at Painter's Crossing.  Check the URL above to see where the movie showing in your area.

This is a real good time for everyone.  All can be who they are and enjoy the…

This presents an opportunity to have your voices heard.  Share your thoughts by going to the following announcement and participate as requested.  Thank you in advance.

097-11_Ann_RFIcommentExtension.pdf

Dear Potential Respondents:The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is…

I have two surveys I created, one for Chester county parents of people with ASD and one for Chester County support staff of people with ASD.  Please contact me if interested in particpating in these simple surveys.  Your support would be appreciated. 

My contact info is mcortlessa@zoominternet.net.

Unfortunately, we did not get a chance to finish our conversation last week, so Lisa will be back tonight.  Please join us again @ 6:30 PM only on You Aut to Know.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/aut_toknow/2011/06/12/lisa-alexander-from-a-voice-for-neli-part-2

Thank you,

Nicole

Age of Autism "Mercury Leaves Its Mark"

By Teresa Conrick

Having a daughter who regressed into autism compels me to research medical journals because she began having health complications after vaccinations.  I have an insatiable…

I want to urge you to join me on You Aut to Know, this Sunday @ 6:30PM to listen in to a very timely and important show.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/aut_toknow/2011/06/05/lisa-alexander-from-a-voice-for-nelifight-against-autism

Neli Latson is a young man with PDD NOS, Autism.  Last year he was arrested by Virgina police under…

I attended the conference hosted by the PA Bureau of Autism Services (BAS).  I serve as an advisory board member.  My first meeting was in March and I was excited by the progress that has been made and the plans for the future.  This is a hardworking group of individuals led by Nina Wall-Cote, Director of BAS.  The group was formed after a task force led by Nina outlined the challenges for individuals and family living with autism and laid the ground work to try to resolve some of those…

I just posted some of the photos that my granddaughter Lola took on various occasions.  I think she is very talented.  This love of taking photos started when my sister, Cheryl permitted Lola to have full use of her digital camera.  Now we can't leave a camera lying around with out finding 100's of photos of everything and anything inside and out of the house.  If you want to see more, just ask.  I have 100's of "Photos by Lola".  I plan to frame a view and hang them around the house.  They…

You may or may not remember the story of Neli,( Lisa Alexander from A Voice for Neli/Fight Against Autism and Police Injustice, on You Aut to Know!) a young adult with autism who was arrested by police and has been going through a terribly traumatic time since then.  If training is made available nationwide for our law…

This is a great service the Autism Society was able to negotiate.  If you can take advantage of it, do so.  It is great for the kids to get out and experience movies in a sensory friendly environment.  

AMC Theatres (AMC) and the Autism Society have teamed up to bring families affected by autism and other disabilities a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis with the "Sensory Friendly Films"…

In response to the dramatic rise in the incidence of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) over the last decade, Pennsylvania has taken great strides to become a national leader in meeting the needs of the autism community.  The complicated nature of this developmental disability, the generally inflexible nature of existing state and federal regulations, and the multitude of different systems used to provide services for individuals with ASD,…

I just returned from the first meeting I was able to attend as an advisory board member.  It was amazingly informative.  As soon as I can read my notes, I will post them.  One important item --- mini-grant applications are due on Friday, April 15th.  If you need one and haven't applied, please do so before the deadline.…

The 10 Best Places to Live if You have Autism

Autism Speaks Releases Results of First Online Community Survey On Livability Issues for People with Autism and Their Families



New York, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, Cleveland and Boston among Most-Cited Areas for Best Availability of Services and Resources



Nearly 75% Surveyed Say They Are Not Satisfied…

This is an interesting article which covers the topic of vaccine safety and the attempt to demonize or discredit Wakefield.  Tell me what you think.

Dr. Halvorsen on Wakefield Witch Hunts and Vaccine Safety.html

Linked is an article about autism and vaccines,  Many parents believe that there is a link between the two and there was a published study that agreed.  According to recent news this report was fraud.  Who do we believe?  Should parents vaccinate their children? 

Read for yourself:…

Valley Forge Educational Services' Summer Matters Division offers dynamic summer programming options for youth and young adults on the spectrum, including:

A Six-week ESY Program at The Vanguard School

Summer L.I.F.E. day camps, affinity camps and travel excursions (mid July/August)

year-round respite programs (3-4x/yr)

Visit www.summermatters.org to learn more about our program options. Of particular…