Minutes for meeting 16 September

Another small group on what might be the last really nice Sunday of Summer.  Still a lively discussion and a chance to meet some new people, which is always a pleasure.  Attendees included a grandmother who's son recently moved back home with his two sons, one of which is eleven and has autism.  Sounds like a rocky start to the new school year.  She already knew about MARS, but thanks to Heidi, I was able to let her know about the other advocacy option in town:  Michigan Protection and Advocacy Services. 

Also in attendance from Escanaba was Tammy Krassick, who participated in my virtual meeting over the summer.  She has a 13 year old son whom she has been able to help through naturalpathic methods.  She now works with other families, and you can learn more about her business on her website: http://healthinfo.vpweb.com/default.html.

I made some announcements about some upcoming things going on in our area. 

This afternoon and evening,  The Autism Alliance of Michigan is offering a couple of free webinars to inform parents about the changes coming in October to Michigan's insurance law and how autism treatments will be covered.  The workshop will be offered at noon and again at 7:00.  You can register and learn more about it here:  http://aaomparentworkshops.eventbrite.com/.

Tomorrow (Wednesday September 19) at 6:00 pm is SAIL's Walk & Roll event at the Lower Harbor.  The next day, Thursday, is their Action Day between 8 and 3:00 in the NMU Great Lakes Rooms.  More information and registration forms on their website:  http://www.upsail.com/events.php.  I'll have a table out in the hall with information about the support group.

Next week people are welcome to participate either in Escanaba or via Telecast at the MARESA offices on Ohio Street here in Marquette, in a two day workshop presented by the Autism Society of Michigan.  See more information in the post right below this one. 

I also mentioned the Next Chapter Book Club, a weekly social group for adults with any developmental disability.  Members do not need to be able to read.  If you know anyone who would be interested in participating or facilitating a group, let me know.  Our first group is formed and meeting.  We hope to start a couple more groups this fall.  Those interested can call me at the library:  226-4312.