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Ridgewood Police Department Hosts Successful “Pull Over Properly” Event for Neurodiverse Drivers

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photos courtesy of the Village of Ridgewood

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, the Ridgewood Police Department, in collaboration with Access Ridgewood and Spec Wired, held a successful “Pull Over Properly” event at the Graydon Pool parking lot yesterday. The event aimed to help neurodiverse drivers understand how to safely respond when pulled over by law enforcement, offering practical simulations to enhance confidence and communication during such encounters.

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Ridgewood Police Get Valuable Hands On Training to Detect People with Autism

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photos courtesy of the Village of Ridgewood

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, in a bid to enhance their capabilities in handling complex situations involving differently abled individuals ie individuals with special needs and autism, Ridgewood Police officers recently underwent valuable hands-on training. Led by Police Chief Forest Lyons, the officers delved into practical scenarios to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

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Ridgewood Police and Ridgewood Fire Departments Get Autism Awareness Training

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photos courtesy of the Ridgewood Police and Ridgewood Fire Departments
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, on Thursday, Gary Weitzen, the Executive Director of POAC Autism Services gave his first of three training sessions to members of the Ridgewood Police and Ridgewood Fire Departments. Gary gives specific training to first responders who deal with residents in our community who are on the Autism Spectrum.

Continue reading Ridgewood Police and Ridgewood Fire Departments Get Autism Awareness Training

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Why a Midland Park Family are donating their brains in honor of their Dad to Science

Dad in 59 Healey Don Demers e1686873379889

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Midland Park NJ, ever wonder what happens if you donate your brain to science? Whether you have a disease or disorder like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, autism, traumatic brain injuries, depression, or you have no brain disorder, human brain tissue can be used to help researchers better understand neurological conditions and potentially lead to new diagnoses, treatments, and hopefully cures and prevention.

Continue reading Why a Midland Park Family are donating their brains in honor of their Dad to Science

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What You Need to Know About Autism

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Autism is a developmental disorder that has been highly publicized in the press recently, owing to the emergence of a subculture who attributes the disorder to having been caused by vaccinations in childhood. We will, likely, never know whether or not vaccinations do cause autism. The term ‘autism’ was first coined around the year nineteen-eleven, and until recently, very little was known about it. It was only toward the late 20th century that discoveries and developments were made into the disorder. Advancements are being regularly made in the field of autism research to help those suffering from the condition to live healthy and regular lives. Many people who suffer from autism can go on to live very healthy and productive lives, with many starting families and settling down. This page will tell you a few facts about autism so that you can truly understand the condition.

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Techniques to Help Children with ASD

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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that causes behavioral, communication, and social challenges. Children with this condition might repeat a particular behavior and may not be comfortable with the changes taking place in their normal activities. Most children with autism have various ways of paying attention, reacting to things and learning. The condition has no cure. However, researchers claim that early detection and treatment can significantly improve their development.

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FORMER CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER FOR AUTISM NONPROFIT SENTENCED FOR STEALING $115,000 FROM ORGANIZATION

Peter Pflug

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Freehold NJ, Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal announced that the former chief financial officer for a nonprofit organization that provides services to individuals with autism was sentenced to prison today for stealing nearly $115,000 from the organization for his personal use.

Peter Pflug, 56, of Freehold, N.J., the former chief financial officer for New Horizons in Autism, was sentenced today to three years in state prison by Superior Court Judge Ellen Torregrossa-O’Connor in Monmouth County. Pflug pleaded guilty on Jan. 22 to a second-degree charge of theft by unlawful taking. He must pay full restitution to the organization.

Continue reading FORMER CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER FOR AUTISM NONPROFIT SENTENCED FOR STEALING $115,000 FROM ORGANIZATION
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Why New Jersey has the highest rates of autism in the country

Autism1

By David Matthau April 24, 2017 4:26 AM

New Jersey has the highest rate of autism of any state in the nation, according to the Centers for Disease Control — but advocates say that’s in part because we screen for it more.

“One in 41 8-year-olds have autism here in New Jersey,” said Suzanne Buchanan, executive director or Autism New Jersey. Autism affects a person’s ability to socialize with other people, and it gives people a restricted range of behaviors, interests and activities.

Buchanan said there are a number of reasons why New Jersey’s autism rates are so high.

AUTISM IN NEW JERSEY

On Wednesday, April 26, at 7 p.m. New Jersey 101.5 will present a special autism town hall.

Experts will be available to answer your questions and update you with the latest information on this disorder. Follow NJ 101.5 on Facebook and watch it live.

“They can pretty easily be explained by the way the research is done and the reports that the researchers had access to,” she said. “Here in New Jersey we have access to both educational and health records, so if you expand the pool of kids that you’re screening, you’re going to find more kids.”

But there’s another reason.

Read More: Why New Jersey has the highest rates of autism in the country | https://nj1015.com/why-new-jersey-has-the-highest-rates-of-autism-in-the-country/?trackback=tsmclip

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How To Get Through Summer Break With A Child On The Autism Spectrum

Autism Spectrum

July 17,2016

by Sean Morris

Ridgewood NJ, For many families, the summer months are an ideal time to take a break, visit with friends and
family, take vacations, and relax. But for parents of children on the autism spectrum, when school is out it can be difficult to adjust to a new routine and schedule, which can cause stress at home. It’s important to remember that there are things you can do to make things a bit easier on your family, and that no two children are the same when it comes to what works.
Because many children on the autism spectrum look forward to school days and the structure they provide, it’s critical for most families to maintain a routine that makes the child feel safe so that anxiety doesn’t take over. Here are some of the best ways to make summer break as stress-free as possible.

Don’t be tempted by the screen

Because home and school are often the two “safest” places for children on the autism spectrum– the places they feel the most comfortable in– summer break can often mean long days spent at home watching television or playing games on phones and devices. That’s okay in moderation, but it’s a good idea to try and get your child outside for scheduled playtimes when weather
permits. Trips to the park or even a day camp are wonderful ways to get your child out of their cocoon and into social, active situations.

Try to keep up the usual schedule

It’s not always easy to maintain the same routines over a break as during the school year, but integrating most of them into the day can be extremely helpful to your child. If changes will upset them, talk to them before the end of the school year about what will be different and consider making charts to help them visualize how things will go. For example, draw up a small
poster with pictures for each activity and the time it will occur: 8 a.m.– breakfast, then teeth brushing, then off to camp, home, snack, dinner, computer time, brush teeth, bed.

Think about your child’s specific needs

It can be hard to remember everything when you’re getting ready for a trip; even if you’re just going to the library for a couple of hours, there are sippy cups, soothing toys, diaper bags, and snacks to worry about. If your child has potty issues or doesn’t like using restrooms outside of the house, it’s a good idea to take them to various public places and have them “practice” using
the toilets to allow them to acclimate before you take a vacation or road trip. Libraries, children’s museums, and big chain supermarkets usually have clean facilities that are equipped with changing stations. Consider giving your child a small reward when he or she uses a public restroom successfully, but if it causes them stress and they balk at first, try not to get
discouraged. Most public bathrooms are loud and many have automatic toilets and sinks, which can cause anxiety for a child.

Rest is super important

For older kids, summer break means not getting up early in the morning, and most children love the idea of staying up late playing video games or watching television. But if you’re trying to stay on the usual schedule, staying up late will only make matters worse. Try to get your child on a good sleep routine that includes no computer or television screens for at least an hour before bed, and if they complain of trouble sleeping there are certain foods and drinks you can have them try that will have a calming effect before bedtime.

Summer break doesn’t have to be a stressful experience for your child. A little bit of good planning can go a long way! Try to stay patient and remember that they want to enjoy the summer, too.

Sean Morris is a former social worker turned stay-at- home dad. He knows what it’s like to juggle family and career. He did it for years until deciding to become a stay-at- home dad after the birth of his son. Though he loved his career in social work, he has found this additional time with his kids to be the most rewarding experience of his life. He began writing for LearnFit.org to share his experiences and to help guide anyone struggling to find the best path for their life, career, and/or family.

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West Bergen Mental Healthcare presents Fashions from W by Worth

West Bergen Mental Healthcare
Wed, April 27, 2016
Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Ridgewood Public Library, 125 N. Maple Ave., Ridgewood, NJ 07450

Ridgewood NJ, Summer is just around the corner! Come and see the new Fashion Trends and colors that would be most beautiful on you.

Please note that on any purchase, you are giving back 10 percent to WEST BERGEN MENTAL HEALTHCARE.
For more than 50 years, West Bergen has provided counselling and psychiatric services to youngsters, families and individuals in need.

In support of Autism Awareness Month, We invite you to…
Come and see the new Fashion Trends and colors that would be most beautiful on you.
Fashions by: W by Worth will be presented by Christina DeCarlo

For a preview, visit wbyworth.com/christina-decarlo
West Bergen Mental Healthcare will receive 10% of any items purchased that day.

West Bergen is a leading provider of mental health services and programs for youngsters and adults on the Autism Spectrum.

Free Admission
RSVP to Carol 201-444-3550 ccohen@westbergen.org

Light refreshments will be served.

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New Jersey Autism Rate highest rate in nation Raises Yet Again

autism

March 31,2016
the staffof the Ridgewood blog

Astonishing : 1 in 41 children in Jersey have autism.

Ridgewood NJ, The number of children with autism continues to rise in New Jersey, which is already the highest rate in the nation, according to a CDC report published Thursday.

The CDC report found no significant change in the autism rate nationally, but in New Jersey the percentage of school-age children diagnosed with autism increased from 2.1 percent in 2010 to 2.5 percent in 2012, or 1 in 41 children.

The CDC says that Nationally, 1.5 percent of children have autism, or 1 in 68.
Autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, is a developmental disability that can affect how people communicate, behave, learn and interact with others or their environments. Signs of autism begin to become evident in early childhood.

In the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report the CDC says it’s still not clear why New Jersey’s rate is so high, “but it could be related to how children are identified and connected to services in their local communities.”

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Prolonged construction of Valley Hospital’s expansion has potential respiratory impact on BF students

Valley_Hospital_theridgewoodblog

March 27,2016
Dana Glazer

Ridgewood NJ, As a follow up to yesterday’s Valley Hospital video: please read and share p.31 from the American Lung Association’s State of the Air address to better understand the potential respiratory impact on BF students, as well as nearby residents, who will be subjected to such a prolonged construction of Valley Hospital’s expansion.

EPA Concludes Fine Particle Pollution Poses Serious

Health Threats

■■ Causes early death (both short-term and long-term exposure)

■■ Causes cardiovascular harm (e.g. heart attacks, strokes, heart

disease, congestive heart failure)

■■ Likely to cause respiratory harm (e.g. worsened asthma, wors-
ened COPD, inflammation)

■■ May cause cancer

■■ May cause reproductive and developmental harm

—U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Integrated

Matter, December 2009. EPA 600/R-08/139F.

Here is the full document: https://www.stateoftheair.org/…/ALA_State_of_the_Air_2015.pdf

Lastly, “The Whispering Woods” public hearings on the Valley Settlement are to take place at the following locations:

· Wednesday, March 30, 2016; 7:30pm; Village Hall courtroom

· Thursday, March 31, 2016; 7:30pm, Student Center Ridgewood High School

· Monday, April 4, 2016; Village Hall Courtroom

· Tuesday, April 5, 2016; Village Hall Courtroom

· Thursday, April 7, 2016; Student Center Ridgewood High School

For more information or how to get involved please email No2ValleySettlement@gmail.com or visit www.https://stop94.com/

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Autism cases in U.S. jump to 1 in 45

CDC

By Ariana Eunjung Cha November 13 at 12:47 PM

The number of autism cases in the United States appeared to jump dramatically in 2014 according to new estimates released Friday, but researchers said that changes in the format of the questionnaire likely affected the numbers.

The report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Center for Health Statistics shows that the prevalence of autism in children ages 3 to 17 went up nearly 80 percent from 2011-2013 to 2014. Instead of 1 in 68 children having autism — a number that has alarmed public health officials in recent years and strained state and school system resources —  researchers now estimate that the prevalence is now 1 in 45.

Lead author Benjamin Zablotsky,  an epidemiologist at the NCHS, and his colleagues said that in previous years some parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder likely reported it as a developmental disability instead of or in addition to autism because it was listed first. The new questionnaire flips the two categories, which researchers said made the autism estimates more similar to ones from other sources.

As might be expected from this change, the prevalence of other developmental disabilities declined significantly from 4.84 percent based on 2011-2013 data to 3.57 percent in 2014.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/to-your-health/wp/2015/11/13/autism-cases-in-u-s-rise-to-1-in-45-a-look-at-who-gets-the-diagnosis-in-8-simple-charts/

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Ridgewood mother, son team become autism heroes

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SEPTEMBER 18, 2015    LAST UPDATED: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2015, 12:31 AM
BY DARIUS AMOS
STAFF WRITER |
THE RIDGEWOOD NEWS

Children doodle; it’s a known fact.

Some pieces are individual works of art, while others are simply innocent mishmashes of various shapes and lines.

But Melissa O’Sullivan saw things unmistakably two years ago when she came across drawings of penciled space men and oddly-shaped beings. In her son’s drawings, the Ridgewood mother of three not only saw pure art, but she also saw signs of enriched expression from a child with an impaired ability to communicate.

“We were just amazed,” O’Sullivan told The Ridgewood News last week, as she shared one of several spiral-bound notebooks full of her son Jake Soper’s sketches and doodles.

Jake, 13, is a freshman enrolled in the Ridgewood Intensive Special Education (RISE) program and has high-functioning autism. Though he has difficulty articulating his thoughts, he speaks clearly and honestly.

He also has mastery over pen and paper, and that’s a skill O’Sullivan and her family have recognized.

https://www.northjersey.com/news/business/mother-son-emerge-as-autism-heroes-1.1412647

Autistic Hero Teeshirts is a T-shirt brand featuring infant/toddler/youth/adult clothing based on Autistic cartoonist Jake Soper’s drawings.

https://www.facebook.com/Autistichero