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FSS Recreation Fair:
March 26, 2011 :: 10:00 a.m. – noon
This event will take place in the Barber National Institute's gymnasium. Learn about the recreational activities, camps, and programs that are available for children, teens, and adults with intellectual disabilities. Presenters from the Erie area will be available to speak about their recreational programs and answer any questions you may have. There will also be demonstrations, door prizes, and clowns! For more information, click here or call (814) 878-5905 or (814) 878-5961.
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“Robots and Research: Using the Latest Technology in Autism Treatment” featuring Dr. Joshua Diehl, Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Notre Dame:
March 29, 2011 :: 6:00 p.m.
The Barber National Institute welcomes Dr. Joshua Diehl as he presents information from his behavior-based research projects and therapies. The focal point of his research involves a state-of-the-art robot designed to break down communication barriers for children with autism. APA, ASHA, and Act 48 credits offered. Reservations are required; Click here for more information and to register or call (814) 480-6831.
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Autism Society’s Evening at Chick-Fil-A:
March 31, 2011 :: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Bring the family for dinner at Chick-Fil-A and help raise awareness of autism in our area and support the Autism Society-NWPA. Chick-Fil-A will donate 10% of net proceeds from the evening. No registration necessary.
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Dance Connections:
March 31, 2011 :: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
The Barber National Institute will once again offer ballroom dance classes for adolescents on the autism spectrum. Believed to be the first of its kind in the nation, Dance Connections allows participants to interact in a social setting in a fun, innovative way. The cost of the six one-hour sessions is $10. Reservations are required; Click here for more information or call (814) 878-5903.
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Light It Up Blue - Bicentennial Tower:
April 1, 2011
As part of a global campaign to spread autism awareness, the Bicentennial Tower on Erie's Dobbins landing will be lit with blue lights during the entire month of April, Autism Awareness Month. The lights on prominent landmarks across North America and the world, including the Empire State Building and the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada will shine blue on April 2 in commemoration of World Autism Day. Visit the Bicentennial Tower, and participate in the event by turning your home's outdoor lights blue.
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Chuck E Cheese Fundraiser:
April 5, 2011 :: 3:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Treat your children to an evening of fun at Chuck E Cheese and raise funds for the Barber National Institute. Fifteen percent of all proceeds benefit services at the Barber National Institute. Be sure to mention that you are supporting the Barber National Institute in order to have 15% of your bill donated. For more information, call (814) 878-4048.
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An Overview of Autism Support at IU5:
April 5, 2011 :: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
This free, public presentation will provide information on the autism support classrooms at IU5 in Erie County. In addition, classroom teachers and support staff will give demonstrations on instructional techniques they currently use. The program will conclude with a Q&A session. This event will be held at the Millcreek Education Center. Registration preferred; log on to iu5.org and click "Events, Classes, Meetings" to register.
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Mary and Max (film):
April 6, 2011 :: 2:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.
Presented as part of the Guelcher film series at Mercyhurst College, this Sundance award-winning film spans 20 years and two continents to tell of a pen-pal relationship between two very different people: Mary Dinkle, a lonely eight year old living in the suburbs of Melbourne, Australia; and Max Horovitz, an obese, 44 year old Jewish man with Asperger Syndrome living in New York City. Vendors will be at both presentations. This event is located at the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center; tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and free for Mercyhurst students. Contact Lori Kaveney at (814) 824-3017 or at lkaveney@mercyhurst.edu. Visit here for campus map.
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Fourth Annual Community Art Show Sponsored by the Barber National Institute:
April 7, 8, and 10-12, 2011 :: Hours
vary by day
“CELEBRATE the Possibilities” by sharing in the artistic creativity of all persons at this year's art show located in the north complex of the Barber National Institute (enter from East Bay Drive). Awards will be given in the following categories: child, adult amateur, and adult professional. Pieces include drawings, paintings, sculpture, photography, collage, and mixed media. Many pieces will be for sale. A ceremony for all artists will be held April 7 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. The show will be held April 8, 11, and 12, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; April 10, noon-3:00 p.m. Click here to download a PDF version of the entry form. For more information, call (814) 874-5603 or click here.
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“Autism Awareness Day at the Shoppes at Northway Mall”:
April 9, 2011 :: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Join staff from BHRS Allegheny as it hosts Autism Awareness Day at the Shoppes at Northway Mall in Pittsburgh, featuring activities for children and information for parents. For more information, call (412) 772-6947.
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“Time for Me”:
April 9, 2011 :: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
This is an opportunity for children ages four to 12 with a developmental disability to engage in structured fun activities including swimming, arts and crafts, and gym at the Barber National Institute. The cost is $15 and reservations are required. Call (814) 878-4117 to register and for more information.
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Open Swim at the Barber National Institute:
April 9, 2011 :: 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
An afternoon at the pool for families of a child with autism. The pool features a hydraulic lift floor and is maintained at a temperature between 88-94 degrees. This event is free; however, reservations are required. Call (814) 480-6831 for more information.
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The Effects of an Autism Diagnosis on the Family:
April 12, 2011 :: 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
A panel discussion focusing on the effects of autism on the child as well as the significant impact on family dynamics, sibling relationships, and marital stability. This free public forum will be held at the Achievement Center's main building in Erie. Please visit www.achievementctr.org for more information.
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Grandparent Autism Support Group:
April 14, 2011 :: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Grandparents of a child with autism are encouraged to attend support group meetings sponsored by the Barber National Institute. On this date, we will welcome back grandparents who have attended in the past and welcome new faces to the group. Fred Chovan, Psychologist at the Barber National Institute, will speak about “Living Under the Autism Spectrum.” Following meetings will be held the second Thursday of each month, except July and August. Click here to read more.
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Dr. Gena Barnhill “Navigation Tips for Teens and Young Adults with ASD”:
April 14, 2011 :: 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
This free, public presentation at Mercyhurst College’s Weber Recital Hall (in the Hirt Academic Building) features Dr. Barnhill who has authored multiple publications on autism and Asperger Syndrome and has been in the disability services field for over 25 years. Contact Lori Kaveney at (814) 824-3017 or lkaveney@mercyhurst.edu for more information. Visit here for campus map.
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Dr. Gena Barnhill “Navigating the Choppy Seas of ASD”:
April 15, 2011 :: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
At this follow-up presentation, Dr. Barnhill will consult with parents, agency members, and area Special Education administrators on methods and approaches to best serve the needs of students on the spectrum. This event will be held at the Mercyhurst College Taylor Little Theatre. Contact Lori Kaveney at (814) 824-3017 or lkaveney@mercyhurst.edu for more information. Visit here for campus map.
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SibSessions:
April 16, 2011 :: 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
SibSessions is a support group sponsored by the Barber National Institute that provides a safe, welcoming environment for school-age brothers and sisters of individuals with disabilities. They can meet, share their experiences, and enjoy each other’s company. Lunch is included. This event is free of charge; however, reservations are required. Call (814) 878-5961 for more information.
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Autism Awareness Day at the Millcreek Mall:
April 16, 2011 :: noon – 4:00 p.m.
Join the Barber National Institute as it hosts Autism Awareness Day. There will be plenty of fun, free activities for children including crafts and face painting. Everyone’s favorite canine, Clifford the Big Red Dog, will also make appearances throughout the afternoon. A “Kids on the Block” puppet show will be held at 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. to help youngsters understand the challenges children with disabilities face. Along with programs for children, representatives from the Barber National Institute will be on hand to answer any questions and address any concerns that parents might have. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call (814) 878-5960.
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Matt Savage:
April 16, 2011 :: 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.
This presentation at Mercyhurst College’s Walker Recital Hall (in the Hirt Academic Building) will feature a performance by Matt Savage, talented jazz pianist, composer, performer, and Autistic Savant. The cost is $10 per ticket. Please call the Performing Arts Center at (814) 824-3000 for information and reservations. Visit here for campus map.
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Autism Society’s Afternoon at Lakettes:
April 17, 2011 :: 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Autism Society’s Afternoon at Lakettes: Join the Autism Society for an afternoon at Lakettes; 42 x 42 spring floor system, in-ground trampoline, 40 foot long tumble track, and lots more. You are welcome to bring snacks and water. Reservations are required by calling (814) 455-3540 or emailing autismsociety@nwpaasa.org.
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Achieva, Special Needs Trust, Autism Society Northwestern PA Support Group Meeting:
April 19, 2011 :: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
This free presentation will be provided by Achieva at the Barber National Institute Forum. The training will cover types of trusts that meet the needs of a person with a long-term disability and how to set up a Special Needs Supplemental Trust for your relative in order to preserve government benefits such as SSI, Medical Assistance, Waiver, Energy Assistance, subsidized housing, food stamps, etc. Babysitting is available on site. Please call (814) 878-5961 for reservations. Act 48 credit available with $10 processing fee by calling (412) 995-5000 or emailing jbrandon@achieva.info.
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“Expert Advice: Asperger Syndrome” Presented by Janet Pawlowski:
April 20, 2011 :: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
This free, public presentation features a panel of individuals with Asperger Syndrome who will share their views and insights, including what they wish others would have known about them and done when they were younger, and what they want the world to know about them as adults. To register, please call (814) 824-4515 ext. 5; leave your name, phone number, and how many persons will be attending.
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Bowling Party:
April 21, 2011 :: 11:30 a.m.
This party sponsored by the Autism Society-Northwestern PA will be held at Greengarden Lanes and includes two games of bowling, shoe rental, and a pizza lunch. Reservations are requested; please RSVP by Monday, April 18 by calling (814) 455-3540.
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Cyber Bullying:
April 27, 2011 :: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
This free, public presentation by Michelee Curtze will address issues of cyber bullying and technology for students with and without autism. Registration is required; go to iu5.org and click on “Events, Classes, Meetings” to register.
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Book Fair at Barnes & Noble:
April 27, 2011 :: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
The event features activities for children including a coloring station, story times, and visits with Therapy Dogs. The Elizabeth Lee Black School Library's "wish list" will also be available for those who wish to donate a book to our collection. Register at the welcome table to for your chance to win a book. Present the coupon during check out to donate a percentage of your sale to services at the Elizabeth Lee Black School. For more information, call (814) 878-4048. Click here to download the coupon.
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10th Annual Walk for Autism:
April 30, 2011 :: 10:00 a.m.
The 10th Annual Walk for Autism will be held at the Rotary Pavilion (between beaches 6 and 8) at Presque Isle State Park. The two-mile leisurely walk includes a hot dog lunch, vendor and information tables, inflatable jumps (weather permitting), face painting, raffles, and a theme basket auction. Preregister before April 1st to guarantee your commemorative t-shirt. For information or to register, email autismsociety@nwpassa.org.
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