There's never been been a better time to join ASA. At a time when the federal government is weighing major budget cuts, ASA's influence in Washington is growing. But we need your help. There's strength in numbers. Please join today. Just visit http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=dds6n1zL3qrH4oBHQ2eF5Q... And because April is National Autism Awareness Month, if you join online before April 30th, we'll send you a free packet of autism awareness materials. You'll get an awareness wristband, a wallet card, our Safe & Sound packet, a "What is Autism" brochure and a coupon for $5 off when you buy a 10-pack of awareness wristbands at our online store. So don't wait, act today. Visit http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=OJrEM3PuD0xV_R0dyl3UjA... This offer is only available online. The offer is also available to current members who renew online. But please act before April 30th!
Autism News and Announcements
Study Denouncing Autism Epidemic Misses the MarkASA Calls for Studies Benefiting Families Now
ASA Appears on John McLaughlin’s One on OnePresident & CEO Grossman Discusses State of Autism in the U.S.
ASA President & CEO Lee Grossman, along with autism advocate Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), recently appeared on John McLaughlin's One on One to talk about the state of autism in the U.S. One on One is an in-depth, thought-provoking, topical weekly news interview program hosted by veteran Washington based political journalist John McLaughlin. To read the transcript: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=THNUnQucd_0kNHCberCaCg...
NEA’s New Guide for Educators: The Puzzle of Autism
The National Education Association (NEA) recently published a 38-page guide entitled The Puzzle of Autism. It explains the common features of autism and suggests effective classroom strategies for improving communication, sensory, social and behavioral skills. The Puzzle of Autism was produced in collaboration with ASA's former Director of Information and Referral Services Ayda Sanver. The American Speech-Language Hearing Association and the National Association of School Psychologists also contributed to the guide. To receive a complimentary copy of The Puzzle of Autism, send an e-mail to gapsinfo@nea.org. A PDF of the guide can be downloaded at http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Eu68JgaX8mjV5EgDQNS5qQ...
To keep you informed on the latest autism news, ASA has compiled a list of recent articles and announcements that have appeared in the news over the past two weeks.
New Study Demonstrates Computer-Assisted Therapy Increases Language & Socialization in Children With Autism
Debate Flares Over Vaccines, Autism Link
Autism explained by weak brain links
Visit http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=jBm2ESqJIH8Vn7HAbssxEg.. for more articles
The Autism Advocate: ASA's #1 Member Benefit
The following article appeared in the 1st edition 2004 issue of ASA's most coveted member benefit: the Autism Advocate magazine. By joining ASA, you will receive this publication that will regularly provide you with timely information and articles on autism written by leaders in field. To join ASA and receive the Autism Advocate in full, along with ASA's many other benefits, go to http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=TMAJ9X4Q7HB-eGpWx-JiVg...
Read article: “Congress & Legislation: The Ins and Outs of Getting Things Done on Capitol Hill”
Already a member? Go to http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=m9mRCRxkEyWt60NJSZZj9g.. to read the Autism Advocate online.
Developments in Development
New Features at Lex & Terry’s Ticket to Ride IV, Jacksonville, Fla., May 6, 2006
Here are some added features to Lex & Terry’s Ticket to Ride IV, rolling through Jacksonville, Fla., on May 6, 2006!
See the Sharpie NASCAR show car from 9am-2pm at AllTell Stadium’s Pepsi Pavilion (and grab a bite to eat from our great sponsor, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, for a nominal donation).
Meet Miss Florida 2005, Mari Wilenski, who will sing the National Anthem for the ride and sign pictures and autographs (for more on Mary Wilenski, http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=XRFi-Yv61Y60jEqZvammbA..).
New live auction item: NASCAR fans can win two tickets and garage passes for the Pepsi 400 in July.
This fantastic event begins and ends at AllTel Stadium's Pepsi Pavilion. Check in starts at 7:30am to 10am on Saturday, May 6. Every year, this wildly popular police-escorted ride sells out in weeks so reserve your tickets right away. We can accept only 750 bikes. This year, we’re excited that the Scott Jones School of Dance performers will be modeling Venus Swimwear and Harley-Davidson gear in the afternoon after the ride. For more on the ride, http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=PLX-erV-MBMF73_wmQCQoQ...
Conference News and Notes
Looking for ASA's Own "American Idol"
Attention persons with autism! Can you sing like an American Idol? Well show us your stuff! ASA is looking for a talented individual to sing the National Anthem at the general opening session and ceremony for the 37th National Conference, Lighting the Way to Hope, in Providence, R.I., Thursday, July 13.
If you are a person with autism, or have a loved one with autism, who has a special talent for singing and would like to be considered for this prestigious honor, please submit a tape or CD to: The Autism Society of Delaware, 5572 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, Delaware, 19808.
The winner will receive coach air travel for two, hotel room for two nights (Wed./Thurs.) and registration to the conference for you and a companion. Please postmark submissions no later than Friday, April 28th, 2006.
Sidenote
On Wednesday, April 12, 2006, Hermie Sadler, who has a daughter with autism, took his turn on the track at Richmond International Raceway during NASCAR-sanctioned testing and practice. Sadler proudly displayed the autism awareness ribbon on his car during the session, which attracted about 500 fans to the free event. No word yet if this particular car will race in Phoenix next weekend or sometime in the future, but a big thanks to Hermie and to Aarons Sales and Lease Ownership for Less for keeping autism awareness on the fast track.