Friday, December 16, 2011
Royal Walker was recently spotted at the Mississipp Housing and Community Development Conference
They were very appreciative of his input.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Obesity Strategy Adaptation for Youth with Disabilities
To help communities reverse the obesity epidemic and become places that promote healthy lifestyle choices for all, including people with disabilities, the CDC initiated the Common Community Measures for Obesity Prevention Project to identify a set of strategies that communities and local governments can use for obesity prevention. The 24 strategies created using the expert panel process are divided into six categories: 1) strategies to promote the availability of affordable healthy food and beverages, 2) strategies to support healthy food and beverage choices, 3) a strategy to encourage breastfeeding, 4) strategies to encourage physical activity or limit sedentary activity among children and youth, 5) strategies to create safe communities that support physical activity, and 6) a strategy to encourage communities to organize for change. For more information, visit Obesity Prevention Project.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Service Animals of Mississippi Program (SAM)
The University of Southern Mississippi
Institute for Disability Studies partners with
the Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities for
Service Animals of Mississippi Program (SAM)
October 1,2011 through December 31,2011
The Institute for Disability Studies and the Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities have established a partnership for continuation of Service Animals of Mississippi (SAM) through December 31, 2011. Project Sam will continue to develop and implement inclusive formal and informal community support options for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The partnership provides for continued training and placement of service animals for individuals with disabilities, community outreach – information and support for the public as well as promoting the use of service dogs for community access, and seminars for university students interested in working in disciplines related to the area of disabilities.
Institute for Disability Studies partners with
the Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities for
Service Animals of Mississippi Program (SAM)
October 1,2011 through December 31,2011
The Institute for Disability Studies and the Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities have established a partnership for continuation of Service Animals of Mississippi (SAM) through December 31, 2011. Project Sam will continue to develop and implement inclusive formal and informal community support options for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
The partnership provides for continued training and placement of service animals for individuals with disabilities, community outreach – information and support for the public as well as promoting the use of service dogs for community access, and seminars for university students interested in working in disciplines related to the area of disabilities.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Emergency Message Test Update, 30 seconds long, not 3 minutes
ATTENTION
THERE WILL BE A TV EMERGENCY MESSAGE TEST ON NOVEMBER 9, 2011 AT
2:00 P.M. EST AND IT WILL BE ONLY A TEST!
YOU DO NOT HAVE TO TAKE ANY ACTION!
ONLY A TEST. On November 9, 2011, at 2 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST, which is 11 AM Pacific Time), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will conduct the first-ever nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). At that time, an announcement will come on every TV and radio channel indicating that EAS has been activated; the announcement will last about 30 seconds. Although the activation will include an audio message indicating that this is a test, due to technical limitations, a visual message indicating that “this is a test” may not appear on every television channel, especially for cable subscribers. For these reasons, the FCC and FEMA are taking extra steps to educate the public, especially people who are deaf and hard of hearing, that “This is only a test.” Please do not be alarmed when you see that message. You will not need to take any action.
WHAT IS THE EAS? EAS alerts are sent over the radio or television (broadcast, cable and satellite). State and local emergency managers use these alerts to notify the public about emergencies and weather events, such as tornadoes and hurricanes. The EAS can also be used to send an alert across the United States if there is a national emergency. It is common for state and local EAS tests to occur on a monthly and weekly basis, respectively. They typically include an audio EAS tone and a visual message indicating: “This is a test of the Emergency Alerting System.” This is the first time that there will be a test of the nationwide EAS alert on all radio and television systems at the same time.
WHY A TEST? The purpose of the test is to assess how well the EAS can alert the public during certain national emergencies. Although the FCC and FEMA are taking steps to ensure that everyone has access to announcements made during the test, some people watching cable television (as well as some others) may receive only an audio (not a visual) notice that this is a test. The FCC and FEMA want to make consumers aware of the test so that they understand that this is only a test and that there is no real emergency. The November 9th test will help ensure that the EAS will work if public safety officials ever need to send an alert or warning in a real emergency to the entire country or to a large region of the United States.
AND remember, the EAS Test on November 9th is ONLY A TEST, NOT A REAL EMERGENCY.
For more information about how this EAS test may affect you, please visit: www.fcc.gov/nationwideeastest.
THERE WILL BE A TV EMERGENCY MESSAGE TEST ON NOVEMBER 9, 2011 AT
2:00 P.M. EST AND IT WILL BE ONLY A TEST!
YOU DO NOT HAVE TO TAKE ANY ACTION!
ONLY A TEST. On November 9, 2011, at 2 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST, which is 11 AM Pacific Time), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will conduct the first-ever nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). At that time, an announcement will come on every TV and radio channel indicating that EAS has been activated; the announcement will last about 30 seconds. Although the activation will include an audio message indicating that this is a test, due to technical limitations, a visual message indicating that “this is a test” may not appear on every television channel, especially for cable subscribers. For these reasons, the FCC and FEMA are taking extra steps to educate the public, especially people who are deaf and hard of hearing, that “This is only a test.” Please do not be alarmed when you see that message. You will not need to take any action.
WHAT IS THE EAS? EAS alerts are sent over the radio or television (broadcast, cable and satellite). State and local emergency managers use these alerts to notify the public about emergencies and weather events, such as tornadoes and hurricanes. The EAS can also be used to send an alert across the United States if there is a national emergency. It is common for state and local EAS tests to occur on a monthly and weekly basis, respectively. They typically include an audio EAS tone and a visual message indicating: “This is a test of the Emergency Alerting System.” This is the first time that there will be a test of the nationwide EAS alert on all radio and television systems at the same time.
WHY A TEST? The purpose of the test is to assess how well the EAS can alert the public during certain national emergencies. Although the FCC and FEMA are taking steps to ensure that everyone has access to announcements made during the test, some people watching cable television (as well as some others) may receive only an audio (not a visual) notice that this is a test. The FCC and FEMA want to make consumers aware of the test so that they understand that this is only a test and that there is no real emergency. The November 9th test will help ensure that the EAS will work if public safety officials ever need to send an alert or warning in a real emergency to the entire country or to a large region of the United States.
AND remember, the EAS Test on November 9th is ONLY A TEST, NOT A REAL EMERGENCY.
For more information about how this EAS test may affect you, please visit: www.fcc.gov/nationwideeastest.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Emergency Alert Test
As part of their ongoing efforts to keep our country and communities safe during emergencies, the Federal Communications Commission and Federal Emergency Management Agency will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The EAS test plays a key role in ensuring the nation is prepared for all hazards, and that the U.S. public can receive critical and vital information, should it ever be needed. The first nationwide test will be conducted Wednesday, November 9 at 2 p.m. ET. This test may last up to three and a half minutes, and will be transmitted via television and radio stations within the U.S., including Alaska, Hawaii, the territories of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. Similar to local emergency alert system tests, an audio message will interrupt television and radio programming indicating: “This is a test.” When the test is over, regular programming will resume. For more information about the nationwide Emergency Alert System test, please visit Alert System or www.FCC.gov. On November 9 at 2 p.m. EDT, please remember: Don’t stress; it’s only a test.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Disability Rights Mississippi Seeking New Governing Board Members
This message comes to you from the Disability Rights Mississippi Nominating Committee as part of the continued effort to support and sustain the governing Board of Directors for Disability Rights Mississippi.
Nominations are now open to fill several positions on the governing board of directors. The Board of Directors for DRMS are a dynamic and diverse group and according to the bylaws must consist of family members, service providers, primary consumers, at least one attorney, and represent each congressional district in the state. DRMS requests that you think of the circle of people you interact with both professionally and privately, and see if you know of someone who would be a good fit and has a heart to serve.
The nominating committee would like the Board to have as many options as possible throughout the search for people who will provide the best enhancement to the group as they continue to help guide DRMS into the future. The only way this can happen is with your input and suggestions!
The last day the committee will accept nominations is Monday, October 24, 2011. The committee will review all nominations and then will present their reccommendations to the Board at the November meeting. The Board will vote on the nominations at that time, with the new members to begin their term in February of 2012, with an orientation in January. The positions are for 3 year terms.
If you have any questions or concerns you may direct them to either Shirley Walker or Beth Porter at 1.601.968.0600. Both can be reached at the office numbers.
Nominations are now open to fill several positions on the governing board of directors. The Board of Directors for DRMS are a dynamic and diverse group and according to the bylaws must consist of family members, service providers, primary consumers, at least one attorney, and represent each congressional district in the state. DRMS requests that you think of the circle of people you interact with both professionally and privately, and see if you know of someone who would be a good fit and has a heart to serve.
The nominating committee would like the Board to have as many options as possible throughout the search for people who will provide the best enhancement to the group as they continue to help guide DRMS into the future. The only way this can happen is with your input and suggestions!
The last day the committee will accept nominations is Monday, October 24, 2011. The committee will review all nominations and then will present their reccommendations to the Board at the November meeting. The Board will vote on the nominations at that time, with the new members to begin their term in February of 2012, with an orientation in January. The positions are for 3 year terms.
If you have any questions or concerns you may direct them to either Shirley Walker or Beth Porter at 1.601.968.0600. Both can be reached at the office numbers.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
National Mentoring Day Celebration and White House Release
National Mentoring Day Celebration – Oct. 19, Hattiesburg
STEP UP, the Youth and Young Adult Subcommittee of the Community Partnership Advisory Council for the Institute for Disability Studies, is sponsoring a National Disability Mentoring Day Celebration on Wed., Oct. 19, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Optimist Park Community Center at 345 Hegwood Road in Hattiesburg. Nicole Marquez will be the guest motivational speaker. Nicole is a Southern Miss graduate who was dancing professionally in New York when she fell and was never expected to walk or dance again. Replies are required. For more information or to RSVP, contact Cookie Smith, LMSW at terri.smith@usm.edu or 601.266.5163.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release October 3, 2011
NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH, 2011
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Utilizing the talents of all Americans is essential for our Nation to out-innovate, out-educate, and out-build the rest of the world. During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we recognize the skills that people with disabilities bring to our workforce, and we rededicate ourselves to improving employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors for those living with disabilities.
More than 20 years after the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals with disabilities, including injured veterans, are making immeasurable contributions to workplaces across our country. Unfortunately, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities remains too high -- nearly double the rate of people without disabilities -- and reversing this trend is crucial.
In both the public and private sectors, we can increase employment opportunities for Americans with disabilities. My Administration is promoting competitive, integrated employment for persons with disabilities and the elderly through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Last year, we also recommitted to making the Federal Government a model employer for people living with disabilities. Agencies are working harder than ever to promote equal hiring practices and increase retention, while also expanding internships, fellowships, and training opportunities.
We know education is the foundation on which all children can build bright and successful futures, and no child should be limited in his or her desire to learn. In September, we announced the final regulations under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part C, to improve services and outcomes for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families during the critical years before kindergarten. The educational environments we are creating for children with disabilities will ensure they are better prepared to succeed in the classroom and later in the workplace, helping position our Nation to lead in the 21st century.
Work accessibility is just as vital to success as ensuring educational and hiring opportunities. Public transportation is a service that should be available to all Americans, and rules instated this year by the Department of Transportation require new rail construction or renovations to ensure accessibility to persons with disabilities. We are also improving our compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act to make Federal agencies' electronic and information technology more accessible to individuals with disabilities. This will ensure all applicants have equal opportunity to apply for jobs, and it will allow Federal employees to better use technology at work.
To win the future, we must harness the power of our Nation's richest resource -- our people. Americans with disabilities, like all Americans, are entitled to not only full participation in our society, but also full opportunity in our society. Their talents and contributions are vital to the strength of our Nation's workforce and our future prosperity. Together, we can ensure persons living with disabilities have equal access to employment, and to inclusive, supportive workplaces.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2011 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. I urge all Americans to embrace the talents and skills that individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces and communities and to promote the right to equal employment opportunity for all people.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.
BARACK OBAMA
STEP UP, the Youth and Young Adult Subcommittee of the Community Partnership Advisory Council for the Institute for Disability Studies, is sponsoring a National Disability Mentoring Day Celebration on Wed., Oct. 19, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Optimist Park Community Center at 345 Hegwood Road in Hattiesburg. Nicole Marquez will be the guest motivational speaker. Nicole is a Southern Miss graduate who was dancing professionally in New York when she fell and was never expected to walk or dance again. Replies are required. For more information or to RSVP, contact Cookie Smith, LMSW at terri.smith@usm.edu or 601.266.5163.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release October 3, 2011
NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH, 2011
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Utilizing the talents of all Americans is essential for our Nation to out-innovate, out-educate, and out-build the rest of the world. During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we recognize the skills that people with disabilities bring to our workforce, and we rededicate ourselves to improving employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors for those living with disabilities.
More than 20 years after the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals with disabilities, including injured veterans, are making immeasurable contributions to workplaces across our country. Unfortunately, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities remains too high -- nearly double the rate of people without disabilities -- and reversing this trend is crucial.
In both the public and private sectors, we can increase employment opportunities for Americans with disabilities. My Administration is promoting competitive, integrated employment for persons with disabilities and the elderly through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Last year, we also recommitted to making the Federal Government a model employer for people living with disabilities. Agencies are working harder than ever to promote equal hiring practices and increase retention, while also expanding internships, fellowships, and training opportunities.
We know education is the foundation on which all children can build bright and successful futures, and no child should be limited in his or her desire to learn. In September, we announced the final regulations under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part C, to improve services and outcomes for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families during the critical years before kindergarten. The educational environments we are creating for children with disabilities will ensure they are better prepared to succeed in the classroom and later in the workplace, helping position our Nation to lead in the 21st century.
Work accessibility is just as vital to success as ensuring educational and hiring opportunities. Public transportation is a service that should be available to all Americans, and rules instated this year by the Department of Transportation require new rail construction or renovations to ensure accessibility to persons with disabilities. We are also improving our compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act to make Federal agencies' electronic and information technology more accessible to individuals with disabilities. This will ensure all applicants have equal opportunity to apply for jobs, and it will allow Federal employees to better use technology at work.
To win the future, we must harness the power of our Nation's richest resource -- our people. Americans with disabilities, like all Americans, are entitled to not only full participation in our society, but also full opportunity in our society. Their talents and contributions are vital to the strength of our Nation's workforce and our future prosperity. Together, we can ensure persons living with disabilities have equal access to employment, and to inclusive, supportive workplaces.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2011 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. I urge all Americans to embrace the talents and skills that individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces and communities and to promote the right to equal employment opportunity for all people.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.
BARACK OBAMA
National Preparedness Goal
The first edition of the National Preparedness Goal is now available for download at NP Goal. The National Preparedness Goal is the first deliverable called for by Presidential Policy Directive (PPD) 8 and was signed by the Secretary of Homeland Security on September 23, 2011.
The National Preparedness Goal sets the vision for preparedness nationwide and identifies the core capabilities and capability targets necessary to achieve that vision across the five mission areas: prevention, protection, mitigation, response and recovery.
The first edition of the National Preparedness Goal builds extensively on prior work of various stakeholder groups from around the nation, draws upon lessons learned from past large-scale and catastrophic events and represents input from preparedness partners from all levels of government, non-profit organizations, the private sector and individuals. The input and ideas developed through working groups, outreach sessions, targeted engagement efforts and a two-week national review period was critical to shaping this document.
The whole community is encouraged to review the first edition of the National Preparedness Goal and as such, encourage you to forward this information to your networks. Please direct any questions to PPD8-Engagement@fema.dhs.gov.
The National Preparedness Goal sets the vision for preparedness nationwide and identifies the core capabilities and capability targets necessary to achieve that vision across the five mission areas: prevention, protection, mitigation, response and recovery.
The first edition of the National Preparedness Goal builds extensively on prior work of various stakeholder groups from around the nation, draws upon lessons learned from past large-scale and catastrophic events and represents input from preparedness partners from all levels of government, non-profit organizations, the private sector and individuals. The input and ideas developed through working groups, outreach sessions, targeted engagement efforts and a two-week national review period was critical to shaping this document.
The whole community is encouraged to review the first edition of the National Preparedness Goal and as such, encourage you to forward this information to your networks. Please direct any questions to PPD8-Engagement@fema.dhs.gov.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
CDC Requests Input from Families of Children with Special Needs
September 14, 2011
If you are a family of a child with special needs, CDC would like to hear from you!
Dear Family Members:
Family Voices is partnering with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in a campaign to learn from families of children and youth with special health care needs about their knowledge, attitudes and beliefs related to influenza prevention and treatment.
Please take time, right now if possible, to complete a brief survey (about 15 minutes).
To access the survey in English, please go to: Family Survey.
To access the survey in Spanish, please go to: Family Survey Spanish Version.
Your knowledge, opinion, and experiences are very important and will help CDC in their work to improve the health and well-being of all children with special healthcare needs. Your r responses will remain anonymous.
More information about this survey may be found in the CDC Invitation letter at
CDC Information.
Please contact Nora Wells (nwells@familyvoices.org) with any questions about this effort.
THANK YOU!
If you are a family of a child with special needs, CDC would like to hear from you!
Dear Family Members:
Family Voices is partnering with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in a campaign to learn from families of children and youth with special health care needs about their knowledge, attitudes and beliefs related to influenza prevention and treatment.
Please take time, right now if possible, to complete a brief survey (about 15 minutes).
To access the survey in English, please go to: Family Survey.
To access the survey in Spanish, please go to: Family Survey Spanish Version.
Your knowledge, opinion, and experiences are very important and will help CDC in their work to improve the health and well-being of all children with special healthcare needs. Your r responses will remain anonymous.
More information about this survey may be found in the CDC Invitation letter at
CDC Information.
Please contact Nora Wells (nwells@familyvoices.org) with any questions about this effort.
THANK YOU!
TEAAM Kamp Kaleidoscope Announcement
REGISTER FOR SUMMER CAMP NOW & GET IN ON THE DISCOUNTED RATE
In years past, camper applications have not been available to families for Kamp Kaleidoscope until January 1 of each year. The construction of The Center Ridge Outpost has opened new possibilities for the future. We are now encouraging families to apply now for 2012! Families that register and pay the full fee before December 31, 2011 will be able to lock in the 2011 price of $250. If you are interested in one of the 2-Session packages it will be $500 (see below).
Because the fees for camp are established based on fundraising success of each year this will be a great advantage. Due to the current economy we hope that we can keep the cost at this level but we cannot guarantee. So we are encouraging families to take advantage of this offer. This fee can be paid all at once or over the next three months in installments. If you do this and camp ends up costing more for the 2012 sessions, you will be paid in full! This fee will be non-refundable but, in the event that your child cannot attend the summer camp, the fee can be applied to other retreat programs.
Just to give you an idea of how this worked in 2011, summer camp cost per camper was actually $450. (Please keep in mind that this amount covers the room and board of the counselors, materials, and camp overhead expenses.) Every camper got a $200 credit, due to fundraiser success, leaving only the $250 balance to be paid. This could go up for 2012. We hope not but it is difficult to know at this point. So, act today!
Dates for Center Ridge Outpost Summer Camps 2012
(You don’t have to select now but you can)
*Available for 2-Session Opportunity
Camp Walapei (18+) *Session 1-June 11-13 *Session 2-June 14-16
Kamp Kaleidoscope (7-17) Session 1-June 18-20 Session 2-June 21-23
*Session 3-June 25-27 *Session 4-June 28-30
Session 5-July 9-11 Session 6-June 12-14
*Session 7-July 16-18 *Session 8-July 19-21
To get started contact TEAAM at 1. 866 993-2437 or at TEAAM Web site.
Together Enhancing Autism Awareness in Mississippi - TEAAM - is a non-profit, volunteer organization comprised of parents, family members, educators and service providers interested in the field of Autism.
In years past, camper applications have not been available to families for Kamp Kaleidoscope until January 1 of each year. The construction of The Center Ridge Outpost has opened new possibilities for the future. We are now encouraging families to apply now for 2012! Families that register and pay the full fee before December 31, 2011 will be able to lock in the 2011 price of $250. If you are interested in one of the 2-Session packages it will be $500 (see below).
Because the fees for camp are established based on fundraising success of each year this will be a great advantage. Due to the current economy we hope that we can keep the cost at this level but we cannot guarantee. So we are encouraging families to take advantage of this offer. This fee can be paid all at once or over the next three months in installments. If you do this and camp ends up costing more for the 2012 sessions, you will be paid in full! This fee will be non-refundable but, in the event that your child cannot attend the summer camp, the fee can be applied to other retreat programs.
Just to give you an idea of how this worked in 2011, summer camp cost per camper was actually $450. (Please keep in mind that this amount covers the room and board of the counselors, materials, and camp overhead expenses.) Every camper got a $200 credit, due to fundraiser success, leaving only the $250 balance to be paid. This could go up for 2012. We hope not but it is difficult to know at this point. So, act today!
Dates for Center Ridge Outpost Summer Camps 2012
(You don’t have to select now but you can)
*Available for 2-Session Opportunity
Camp Walapei (18+) *Session 1-June 11-13 *Session 2-June 14-16
Kamp Kaleidoscope (7-17) Session 1-June 18-20 Session 2-June 21-23
*Session 3-June 25-27 *Session 4-June 28-30
Session 5-July 9-11 Session 6-June 12-14
*Session 7-July 16-18 *Session 8-July 19-21
To get started contact TEAAM at 1. 866 993-2437 or at TEAAM Web site.
Together Enhancing Autism Awareness in Mississippi - TEAAM - is a non-profit, volunteer organization comprised of parents, family members, educators and service providers interested in the field of Autism.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
New Resource BabysFirstTest.org Informs Parents and Public about Newborn Screening Genetic Alliance Launches Vital Newborn Screening Resource
FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE
September 7, 2011 Contact: Natasha Bonhomme
202-966-5557 x211
nbonhomme@geneticalliance.org
WASHINGTON, DC – September 7, 2011 – Baby’s First Test will increase awareness and knowledge of newborn screening and better inform the decision-making process of newborn screening stakeholders, including new parents and healthcare providers across the country. Genetic Alliance launched this new resource today.
Newborn screening has been available for nearly four decades. However, many parents are unaware of the specific conditions for which babies receive screening in their state, how screening takes place and who to contact for more information. Baby’s First Test will serve as a comprehensive guide for many aspects of newborn screening, including conditions covered and what to do in case of a screen positive test result. Sharon Terry, president and CEO of Genetic Alliance notes, “this site aims to support families by promoting earlier education about newborn screening. It will also provide a resource for healthcare providers to educate parents about what to expect after their baby is born.”
In 2008, the U.S. Congress passed the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act to expand support, research, and education opportunities for newborn screening. As a result of this legislation, the Genetic Services Branch of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau, HRSA, HHS awarded a cooperative agreement to Genetic Alliance and partners to establish an online newborn screening information resource center specifically for parents and the public. The goal is to connect parents and healthcare providers with resources and information relevant to the more than four million newborns screened annually. Since receiving the award, Genetic Alliance and partners mapped out a vision of the site based on this legislation. The process included engagement with state and regional newborn screening programs, input from prenatal care providers, and feedback from consumer advocacy groups. “This launch is a fabulous culmination of a terrific community process, however it is just the beginning for Baby’s First Test. We are excited to continue our collaborative relationships and to build on the foundation of this site,” says Natasha Bonhomme, project director for BabysFirstTest.org
This project has received considerable feedback from the Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children (SACHDNC). R. Rodney Howell, M.D., chairman of the SACHDNC notes, “It is vital that parents and the public know the great benefits of newborn screening. Public dialogue about caring for the children of this nation is essential. BabysFirstTest.org, through its partnerships and social media efforts, provides families with immediate and credible resources and provides critical just-in-time information.”
For more information, visit Babys First Test.
RELEASE
September 7, 2011 Contact: Natasha Bonhomme
202-966-5557 x211
nbonhomme@geneticalliance.org
WASHINGTON, DC – September 7, 2011 – Baby’s First Test will increase awareness and knowledge of newborn screening and better inform the decision-making process of newborn screening stakeholders, including new parents and healthcare providers across the country. Genetic Alliance launched this new resource today.
Newborn screening has been available for nearly four decades. However, many parents are unaware of the specific conditions for which babies receive screening in their state, how screening takes place and who to contact for more information. Baby’s First Test will serve as a comprehensive guide for many aspects of newborn screening, including conditions covered and what to do in case of a screen positive test result. Sharon Terry, president and CEO of Genetic Alliance notes, “this site aims to support families by promoting earlier education about newborn screening. It will also provide a resource for healthcare providers to educate parents about what to expect after their baby is born.”
In 2008, the U.S. Congress passed the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act to expand support, research, and education opportunities for newborn screening. As a result of this legislation, the Genetic Services Branch of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau, HRSA, HHS awarded a cooperative agreement to Genetic Alliance and partners to establish an online newborn screening information resource center specifically for parents and the public. The goal is to connect parents and healthcare providers with resources and information relevant to the more than four million newborns screened annually. Since receiving the award, Genetic Alliance and partners mapped out a vision of the site based on this legislation. The process included engagement with state and regional newborn screening programs, input from prenatal care providers, and feedback from consumer advocacy groups. “This launch is a fabulous culmination of a terrific community process, however it is just the beginning for Baby’s First Test. We are excited to continue our collaborative relationships and to build on the foundation of this site,” says Natasha Bonhomme, project director for BabysFirstTest.org
This project has received considerable feedback from the Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children (SACHDNC). R. Rodney Howell, M.D., chairman of the SACHDNC notes, “It is vital that parents and the public know the great benefits of newborn screening. Public dialogue about caring for the children of this nation is essential. BabysFirstTest.org, through its partnerships and social media efforts, provides families with immediate and credible resources and provides critical just-in-time information.”
For more information, visit Babys First Test.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Aerobic Exercise May Reduce the Risk of Dementia
Courtesy of AAIDD via e-mail from Joyce Martin
Any exercise that gets the heart pumping may reduce the risk of dementia and slow the condition's progression once it starts, reported a Mayo Clinic study published in the September 2011 issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Researchers examined the role of aerobic exercise in preserving cognitive abilities and concluded that it should not be overlooked as an important therapy against dementia. (See J. E. Ahlskog, Y. E. Geda, N. R. Graff-Radford, R. C. Petersen. Physical Exercise as a Preventive or Disease-Modifying Treatment of Dementia and Brain Aging. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2011; 86 (9): 876 DOI: 10.4065/mcp.2011.0252)
The researchers broadly defined exercise as enough aerobic physical activity to raise the heart rate and increase the body's need for oxygen. Examples include walking, gym workouts and activities at home such as shoveling snow or raking leaves.
They note that brain imaging studies have consistently revealed objective evidence of favorable effects of exercise on human brain integrity. Also, they note, animal research has shown that exercise generates trophic factors that improve brain functioning, plus exercise facilitates brain connections (neuroplasticity). More research is needed on the relationship between exercise and cognitive function, the study's authors say, but they encourage exercise, in general, especially for those with or worried about cognitive issues.
To see the full abstract go to: Aerobic Exercise Abstract.
Any exercise that gets the heart pumping may reduce the risk of dementia and slow the condition's progression once it starts, reported a Mayo Clinic study published in the September 2011 issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Researchers examined the role of aerobic exercise in preserving cognitive abilities and concluded that it should not be overlooked as an important therapy against dementia. (See J. E. Ahlskog, Y. E. Geda, N. R. Graff-Radford, R. C. Petersen. Physical Exercise as a Preventive or Disease-Modifying Treatment of Dementia and Brain Aging. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2011; 86 (9): 876 DOI: 10.4065/mcp.2011.0252)
The researchers broadly defined exercise as enough aerobic physical activity to raise the heart rate and increase the body's need for oxygen. Examples include walking, gym workouts and activities at home such as shoveling snow or raking leaves.
They note that brain imaging studies have consistently revealed objective evidence of favorable effects of exercise on human brain integrity. Also, they note, animal research has shown that exercise generates trophic factors that improve brain functioning, plus exercise facilitates brain connections (neuroplasticity). More research is needed on the relationship between exercise and cognitive function, the study's authors say, but they encourage exercise, in general, especially for those with or worried about cognitive issues.
To see the full abstract go to: Aerobic Exercise Abstract.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
National Launch of the HHS Action Plan
Dr. Mina Li, MD, MS, PhD, CSM, Coordinator for Health Services and Research at the Institute for Disability Studies (front row, third from left), participated in the inaugural Regional Health Equity Council (RHEC) Region IV meeting held August 23-24, in West Palm Beach, Florida. Dr. Li is one of 25 professionals from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee selected to serve on the council. During the meeting, they discussed the Action Plan to Reduce Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities launched by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This initiative, built on provisions of the Affordable Care Act, will address the needs of racial and ethnic minority populations by bringing down health care costs, investing in prevention and wellness, supporting improvements in primary care, and creating linkages between the traditional realms of health and social services.
Monday, August 29, 2011
President Calls on Americans to Serve on September 11th
For Immediate Release Contact: Sandy Scott
Saturday, August 27, 2011 202-606-6724, sscott@cns.gov
Washington D.C. – President Obama today urged Americans to come together in acts of service and remembrance to honor the victims and heroes of September 11th on the upcoming tenth anniversary of the terror attacks.
In today’s weekly address, the President encouraged Americans to visit Serve.gov to find local volunteer opportunities for the September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance.
“There are so many ways to get involved, and every American can do something. To learn more about the opportunities where you live, just go online and visit Serve.gov,” said the President. “Even the smallest act of service, the simplest act of kindness, is a way to honor those we lost; a way to reclaim that spirit of unity that followed 9/11.”
The President recalled how the terror attacks a decade ago brought out the best in the American people and urged Americans to reclaim that sense of unity and generosity by serving on September 11.
“As we saw after 9/11, the strength of America has always been the character and compassion of our people. So as we mark this solemn anniversary, let’s summon that spirit once more. And let’s show that the sense of common purpose that we need in America doesn’t have to be a fleeting moment; it can be a lasting virtue—not just on one day, but every day.”
The President announced that he and First Lady Michelle Obama will join the commemorations at Ground Zero, in Shanksville, and at the Pentagon, and will participate in a local service project, as he has the past two years.
The September 11th National Day of Service and Remembrance is the culmination of an effort originally launched in 2002 by 9/11 family members and support groups, led by the organization MyGoodDeed, who worked to establish the service day as a way to honor those who were lost and to rekindle the spirit of unity and compassion that followed the attacks.
The bipartisan 2009 Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act designated September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance and charged the Corporation for National and Community Service with supporting this effort across the country.
For the tenth anniversary, MyGoodDeed, HandsOn Network, the Corporation for National and Community Service, and other organizations across the country are working to organize the single largest day of charitable service in U.S. history, in tribute to the 9/11 victims and survivors and all those that rose in service in response to the attacks.
The Serve.gov website features a searchable database of volunteer opportunities for the September 11 weekend and throughout the year, as well as toolkits and other resources for individuals and organizations to plan service projects.
Audio, video, and a transcript text of the President’s weekly address is available at www.whitehouse.gov.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Sent on Behalf of Access Board.
Please refer all questions to the contact information below:
Kathy Roy Johnson
Legislative Analyst
U.S. Access Board
1331 F Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20004-1111
(202) 272-0041
Fax: (202) 272-0081
email: johnson@access-board.gov
Dear Colleague:On behalf of the Access Board, I am pleased to invite you to participate in a virtual listening session that we are hosting on ways to improve access to information technology in the federal sector. This listening session will take place on September 8, 2011, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). The Access Board is hosting this event in collaboration with the Chief Information Officers Council, the Chief Acquisition Officers Council, and the General Services Administration’s Office of Governmentwide Policy. This forum will provide an opportunity for members of the public to suggest steps the federal government can take to improve its acquisition and implementation of accessible technology under Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Information is also sought on emerging technologies that may pose barriers to access. People with disabilities, advocates, technology companies, government employees and other interested parties are invited to participate.
The listening session will be accessible. Computer assisted real-time transcription (CART) will be provided. Persons wishing to participate in the virtual listening session can either call in and speak their comments over the telephone or go online and type them on the afternoon of the listening session. Log-on and dial-in instructions are posted on the Board’s website. I hope that you will be able to join us on September 8th. Additional details about this meeting are provided in a notice published in the Federal Register.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Executive Order--Establishing a Coordinated Government-wide Initiative to Promote Diversity and Inclusion in the Federal Workforce
EXECUTIVE ORDER
ESTABLISHING A COORDINATED GOVERNMENT-WIDE INITIATIVE TO PROMOTE DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IN THE FEDERAL WORKFORCE
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in order to promote the Federal workplace as a model of equal opportunity, diversity, and inclusion, it is hereby ordered as follows:
Section 1. Policy. Our Nation derives strength from the diversity of its population and from its commitment to equal opportunity for all. We are at our best when we draw on the talents of all parts of our society, and our greatest accomplishments are achieved when diverse perspectives are brought to bear to overcome our greatest challenges.
A commitment to equal opportunity, diversity, and inclusion is critical for the Federal Government as an employer. By law, the Federal Government's recruitment policies should "endeavor to achieve a work force from all segments of society." (5 U.S.C. 2301(b)(1)). As the Nation's largest employer, the Federal Government has a special obligation to lead by example. Attaining a diverse, qualified workforce is one of the cornerstones of the merit-based civil service.
Prior Executive Orders, including but not limited to those listed below, have taken a number of steps to address the leadership role and obligations of the Federal Government as an employer. For example, Executive Order 13171 of October 12, 2000 (Hispanic Employment in the Federal Government), directed executive departments and agencies to implement programs for recruitment and career development of Hispanic employees and established a mechanism for identifying best practices in doing so. Executive Order 13518 of November 9, 2009 (Employment of Veterans in the Federal Government), required the establishment of a Veterans Employment Initiative. Executive Order 13548 of July 26, 2010 (Increasing Federal Employment of Individuals with Disabilities), and its related predecessors, Executive Order 13163 of July 26, 2000 (Increasing the Opportunity for Individuals With Disabilities to be Employed in the Federal Government), and Executive Order 13078 of March 13, 1998 (Increasing Employment of Adults With Disabilities), sought to tap the skills of the millions of Americans living with disabilities.
To realize more fully the goal of using the talents of all segments of society, the Federal Government must continue to challenge itself to enhance its ability to recruit, hire, promote, and retain a more diverse workforce. Further, the Federal Government must create a culture that encourages collaboration, flexibility, and fairness to enable individuals to participate to their full potential.
Wherever possible, the Federal Government must also seek to consolidate compliance efforts established through related or overlapping statutory mandates, directions from Executive Orders, and regulatory requirements. By this order, I am directing executive departments and agencies (agencies) to develop and implement a more comprehensive, integrated, and strategic focus on diversity and inclusion as a key component of their human resources strategies. This approach should include a continuing effort to identify and adopt best practices, implemented in an integrated manner, to promote diversity and remove barriers to equal employment opportunity, consistent with merit system principles and applicable law.
Sec. 2. Government-Wide Diversity and Inclusion Initiative and Strategic Plan. The Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Deputy Director for Management of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), in coordination with the President's Management Council (PMC) and the Chair of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), shall:
(a) establish a coordinated Government-wide initiative to promote diversity and inclusion in the Federal workforce;
(b) within 90 days of the date of this order:
(i) develop and issue a Government-wide Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan (Government-wide Plan), to be updated as appropriate and at a minimum every 4 years, focusing on workforce diversity, workplace inclusion, and agency accountability and leadership. The Government-wide Plan shall highlight comprehensive strategies for agencies to identify and remove barriers to equal employment opportunity that may exist in the Federal Government's recruitment, hiring, promotion, retention, professional development, and training policies and practices;
(ii) review applicable directives to agencies related to the development or submission of agency human capital and other workforce plans and reports in connection with recruitment, hiring, promotion, retention, professional development, and training policies and practices, and develop a strategy for consolidating such agency plans and reports where appropriate and permitted by law; and
(iii) provide guidance to agencies concerning formulation of agency-specific Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plans prepared pursuant to section 3(b) of this order;
(c) identify appropriate practices to improve the effectiveness of each agency's efforts to recruit, hire, promote, retain, develop, and train a diverse and inclusive workforce, consistent with merit system principles and applicable law; and
(d) establish a system for reporting regularly on agencies' progress in implementing their agency-specific Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plans and in meeting the objectives of this order.
Sec. 3. Responsibilities of Executive Departments and Agencies. All agencies shall implement the Government-wide Plan prepared pursuant to section 2 of this order, and such other related guidance as issued from time to time by the Director of OPM and Deputy Director for Management of OMB. In addition, the head of each executive department and agency referred to under subsections (1) and (2) of section 901(b) of title 31, United States Code, shall:
(a) designate the agency's Chief Human Capital Officer to be responsible for enhancing employment and promotion opportunities within the agency, in collaboration with the agency's Director of Equal Employment Opportunity and Director of Diversity and Inclusion, if any, and consistent with law and merit system principles, including development and implementation of the agency-specific Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan;
(b) within 120 days of the issuance of the Government-wide Plan or its update under section 2(b)(i) of this order, develop and submit for review to the Director of OPM and the Deputy Director for Management of OMB an agency-specific Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan for recruiting, hiring, training, developing, advancing, promoting, and retaining a diverse workforce consistent with applicable law, the Government-wide Plan, merit system principles, the agency's overall strategic plan, its human capital plan prepared pursuant to Part 250 of title 5 of the Code of Federal Regulations, and other applicable workforce planning strategies and initiatives;
(c) implement the agency-specific Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan after incorporating it into the agency's human capital plan; and
(d) provide information as specified in the reporting requirements developed under section 2(d).
Sec. 4. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) authority granted to a department or agency or the head thereof, including the authority granted to EEOC by other Executive Orders (including Executive Order 12067) or any agency's authority to establish an independent Diversity and Inclusion Office; or
(ii) functions of the Director of OMB relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
BARACK OBAMA
THE WHITE HOUSE,
August 18, 2011.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Hattiesburg American Article on Inclusive Tennis Clinic August 13, 2011
Serving a good cause Event aids athletes with disabilities
Having a disability doesn't have to mean you can't shoot hoops like Kobe Bryant or reach that match point like Serena Williams.
In Mississippi, people who have to live their lives in wheelchairs aren't getting the athletic opportunities experts say still needs to play an important role in their lives.
But several local agencies have joined forces to help change that, and they started on Saturday with a tennis clinic they're hoping will plant the seeds for future growth in this arena.
"This being a southern state, it's unfortunate we are just breaking the ice," Cindy Singletary, independent living specialist for Living Independence For Everyone, said about the group's motivation to host the Hattiesburg Inclusive Tennis Clinic.
"We're trying to get people involved so we can start having competitive matches," she said. "We want to give people with disabilities more opportunities."
Besides LIFE, Saturday's event also was sponsored by the University of Southern Mississippi's Institute for Disability Studies, Metro Area Community Empowerment and the Mississippi Society for Disabilities.
Attendees battled through stifling heat and humidity Saturday for skills training about how to play tennis, while more advanced players paired off into one-on-one matches.
Volunteers like Jane McIntrye, whose 16-year-old daughter was born with Spina bifida, actually took the opportunity to see things from her daughter's perspective by strapping into a wheelchair herself that day.
"I wanted to see, as an able-bodied player, how difficult this is," McIntrye said. "And yet, as we're seeing out here, what accomplished athletes these people are that they can maneuver a chair and still play tennis.
"And no one is complaining that they can't do it."
Robbie Sullivan, disability outreach coordinator for MACE, said he didn't get into wheelchair sports until eight years after the accident that disabled him.
What started with basketball has now grown into a recreational lifestyle that he says keeps him in shape and entertained.
"I've lost about 40 pounds since December," he said. "You need exercise. That's why if there is a sport that somebody wants to play, we're going to try and make it happen."
Organizers are hoping they can start hosting sporting events bi-monthly if the interest and the participants continue to grow.
"There is a sport for every person," said Cookie Smith, project manager for Southern Miss' Family 2 Family.
"We educate to our parents and youth that as they are transitioning through various levels in life, we want recreation to be a part of that."To view the article with pictures, go to
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/201108140630/NEWS01/108140347.
Tom Perez, Assistant Attorney for the Civil Right Division of the U.S. Dept. of Justice, spoke with leaders of Mississippi's disability community at a breakfast hosted by Disability Rights Mississippi on May 24. Attending the breakfast were LeRon Jackson, a DRMS member, and his mother, Hollia Thompson.
Dr. Royal Walker, Executive Director of IDS, right, listens to Tom Perez during the breakfoast with Sandr Caron, left, of NAMI, a member of the DRMS board.
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