If you have Autistic or Special Needs Kids take a look at a free program offered by the Torino Foundation!!

 

Picture
JUNE 20-23, 2013
MISSION Our focus is on alleviating the strain that an Autism diagnosis takes not only on the affected child but the child’s family. Our primary goals are to help campers build self-esteem, develop better social skills and self-expression, make and maintain friendships, improve fine motor skills, gross motor skills and sensory integration.
Picture
Picture
ABOUT Camp I AM is our second co-ed residential summer camp program designed specifically for children ages 6 – 17 with a primary diagnosis of Autism. Camp I AM’s emphasis is ‘personal growth’.  The program is designed for children who would benefit from structure, small group dynamics and individual attention all in a private setting where the campers enjoy typical outdoor camp activities.   All campers participate in a daily rotation of non-competitive camp activities with their cabin groups.  We encourage camper participation and inspire them to reach their full potential by realizing their best is ‘the best’.  Our curriculum focuses on improving physical health, problem solving, teambuilding, starting and finishing tasks as well as many other objectives including having fun!
Free quality services are provided at Camp I AM including accommodations and meals, onsite medical support, and recreational facilities. A tasty, healthy and hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served each day and snacks and beverages are provided throughout the entire program.  We also provide for the campers with special dietary needs.ELIGIBILITY Camp I AM welcomes children ages 6 – 17 with a primary diagnosis of Autism.  Camp I AM does not offer a clinical setting and therefore, cannot accept children who have a history of aggressive, abusive or violent behaviors.

PROGRAM FEATURES A unique feature of Camp I AM is the Camper Passport.  The majority of our parents are most interested in helping their child improve their social skills, learn new activities, develop a better sense of self, and to take greater responsibility for themselves.   The Camper Passport is a tool that Counselors use while at camp, to keep written record in a non-intrusive way, of each camper’s personal experience while staying with us at camp.  It’s nice to know that your quiet, softly spoken child was front and center on the stage during the camp talent show singing their heart out.  The Camper Passport is gifted to each camper’s parents after camp allowing the parents to benefit from and enjoy their child’s personal journey through Camp I AM.  Although the campers learn many new “camp” skills from participating in activities, it’s the skills that are less visible that are the most recognized when returning home.  The campers feel very empowered to share new things with their family.
Our one-to-one adult counselor to camper ratio, plus activity instructors and safety staff, allows us to work closely with each camper to provide individualized attention to their special needs. Our counselors are adults who are experienced in working with children with Autism or are pursuing a degree in special education or a related field. Each child is also assigned a non-disabled Peer Buddy. Camp I AM is run by a group of highly skilled, experienced and caring professionals who work in collaboration with our community affiliates to provide the highest quality of service to each camper.
Campers attend two – three activities in the morning and two – three activities in the afternoon. Evening activities serve as opportunities for the entire camp to come together for structured entertainment such as campfires, dances, movies, and music. Picture schedules are used throughout the day to support communication between campers and staff if needed.

OUR STAFF Torino Foundation’s camp program staff consists of dozens of individuals who are experienced with our programs and facility, many of which have been working with Torino Foundation for over ten years.
Our Volunteer counselors and Activity staff undergo intensive training to ensure they are fully equipped to meet our campers’ needs and provide them with the most enriching experiences possible.
Medical Staff stay at camp during the entire duration of the program to ensure each camper has consistency in a supportive environment.

A BIT ABOUT TORINO RANCH Nestled in the Spring Valley Mountains west of Las Vegas, Torino ranch offers a supportive environment for campers of all ages to meet other peers with critical illnesses, disabilities, or life altering situations.  The ranch is a pristine oasis with spring-fed streams, crystal clear lakes and waterfalls, and hundreds of organic fruit trees and organic gardens.  The ranch is a sparkling jewel of natural beauty complete with camper villages, lodge, amphitheater, and many other amenities.  The ranch is a playground and a sanctuary – a place of peace.  Campers have the opportunity to make friends, enjoy nature, gain self-confidence, create wonderful camp memories and develop skills for increased independence.  They can leave their worries behind while laughing, playing and enjoying life.

Here is a link to their Facebbook page–>
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Torino-Foundation/203601819672853?ref=hl

Our 3 kids are going to attend one of their autism camps and since I have not been rich lately they really wanted to go to camp at least once!!

Please help them in their efforts.

We also need help getting with our autism efforts as well, please donate instruments tablets, and services to help us to help autism!!

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Autism Resources, Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

A thanks to Jeff Mosier from the Las Vegas Review Journal View News Paper an Article on our organization!!!

Autism Awareness
http://www.lvrj.com/view/area-resident-hoping-to-start-nonprofit-for-kids-with-autism-180951051.html

I would like to thank Mr. Jeff Mosier from the Las Vegas Review Journal’s View Newspaper for doing an article on us on their website and in their newspaper to hopefully help to find support, sponsors, and donors!!!

Here is a summary to the article–>

A Southern Highlands resident has started a nonprofit organization to put iPads and other tools in the hands of valley students in need.

Dave Berkowitz, 43, said he dreams of becoming a national arts and technology foundation for the autism community. Technology such as iPads can help some students with autism better communicate with their teachers, peers and families.

The nonprofit, unofficially called Arts 4 Autism, also would supply students with musical instruments, art supplies, concert tickets and scholarships. It is unofficial because Berkowitz has not applied for the organization’s tax-exempt 501(c)(3) status, yet. Berkowitz has been unemployed since October and said he cannot afford the application fee and an attorney to help with the process. He said he knows that people will hesitate to donate until the organization gains its tax-exempt status, but he is hoping someone in the community can help with that process.

For the rest of the story click here–>http://www.lvrj.com/view/area-resident-hoping-to-start-nonprofit-for-kids-with-autism-180951051.html

We also have an online campaign for fundraising as well–>http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/240108?a=1433442

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Autism Resources, Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Tagged | Leave a comment

A little about us, why to take a look at the site, why to come back again and again.

We are unique:

I am the asperger’s father of 3 on the spectrum. I am a person with Asperger’s therefore I offer a unique firsthand perspective on tech products for persons w/autism and autism education.

I offer my opinions on life with autism as well as a peak into the lives of my kids who also are on the spectrum.

I also offer a glimpse into the mind of a 42 year old army vet, who works in tech sales for a software company, and now runs an autism non profit to help others with autism via technology, and the gift of music, and the arts. Our dream is to improve the quality of life for people with autism.

I want to change the world, become a force for autistic people and also help fund autism education in music and the arts.

I also am working on funding to donate Ipads and Android tablets to autistic people, their families, and autism education.

Our logo
Autism Advocacy and Technology News Zone

Or an alternative




Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

Please donate today to help us to help Autism Via technology, music and the arts!!!!

Add your HTML code here...

In order to make a difference and help autistic people like ourselves we need your help. Please tell everyone to come to our website and make a donation.
Even if you can only afford a quarter it all helps. If you want to send us a donation via postal mail then email me. We are trying to do a promotion donate a dollar for autism or donate from our web portal. We are trying to improve the quality of life for autistic people using technology like tablets, music and the arts, as well as getting tickets to cultural events and gift cards to give to autistic people, their families and autism education. Our goal is to become a national foundation for autism like the American Diabetes Foundation or the American Heart Association(I have high blood pressure and diabetes and can relate). We are here to stand up for autism, to make a difference in the lives of autistic people and their families. I have asperger’s and my 3 kids are on the spectrum as well. We are trying to raise funds for an event in October with www.fast4kids.org, and for the holidays coming up.

Thank you for your support.








$
Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

We are answering the call with our autism organization, to make a difference for autism, watch the video and then please help us to help autism

I found this inspiring video that also embodies our purpose, I have asperger’s. my 3 kids are on the spectrum, we need to help autistic peoplr. We intend to help via technology, music and the arts. We will fund donations of tablets to individuals and schools, and donate tickets to musical, and cultural events, we will fund music therapy, and help music and theater programs and inspire them to include people on the autism spectrum, and we will donate towards music, and arts educational programs.

Here is the video—>

If that does not inspire people to help autism organizations like ours, then what truly will. I stand up for autism, please help us, as they say united we stand.

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

We were on ABC Television’s Local Affilliate, KTNV’s Morning Blend Show.

This morning we were on The Vegas Morning Blend, with the Lovely Dao and the dashing Shawn. I really appreciate the opportunity to be on the show.

Technology News Zone uses technology, education and the arts to fully educate people with autism and raise awareness to others. As a man inflicted with Apsergers and the father of three autistic children, David Berkowitz is fueled to assist autistic people and their families with much needed resources and funds. See how you too can help.

http://www.vegasmorningblend.com/videos/123835834.html

We spoke about and appreciate–>

Charity Music, inc.

http://www.charitymusic.org/autismadvocacy.html

We would like to thank KTNV TV, and ABC Television.

www.ktnv.com

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

Fox5vegas.com Our TV Interview–>Using technology and music to help fight Autism

Today my daughter and I were on Las Vegas’s Fox 5 television. We did an interview with Monica Jackson, whom we really like on the show as well as Jason Feinberg, of whom my daughter is a huge fan. Pictured are Monica Jackson, Jason Feinberg, Michele Berkowitz, Rachel Berkowitz, and David Berkowitz. (Adam and Aaron our twin 15 year old twins were at home)

We would like to thank FOX 5, Mich Thomas, Kevin Bowlinger, Monica Jackson and Jason Feinberg for the opportunity to be on the show.

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Links to Autistim resources and organizations. | Leave a comment

Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete Present A Media Roundtable Dialogue On The HollyRod Foundation and DesignCare 2013

Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete Present A Media Roundtable Dialogue On The HollyRod Foundation and DesignCare 2013 (via PR Newswire)

LOS ANGELES, May 28, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete, founders of The HollyRod Foundation, will host a Media Roundtable Thursday, May 30, 2013 at Crustacean, located at 9646 Santa Monica Boulevard, Beverly Hills, California. The event begins at 4:30 pm. Topics for discussion…


Continue reading “Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete Present A Media Roundtable Dialogue On The HollyRod Foundation and DesignCare 2013” »

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

Berlin company specialises in autistic IT experts

Berlin company specialises in autistic IT experts (via AFP)

When German software giant SAP said last month it plans to employ hundreds of autistic people as IT experts, the news was welcomed especially at a small Berlin computer consulting firm. The pioneering company, Auticon, already employs 17 people who live with autism, the disorder characterised by difficulties…


Continue reading “Berlin company specialises in autistic IT experts” »

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

Samsung unveils the Galaxy S4 Zoom with 16MP camera and 10x optical zoom

Samsung unveils the Galaxy S4 Zoom with 16MP camera and 10x optical zoom (via The Inquirer)

KOREAN PHONE MAKER Samsung has added another handset to its growing lineup of Galaxy smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom. Yes, that thing that leaked earlier this week is an actual smartphone. In fact, ccording to Samsung, it’s the first smartphone to feature a 10x optical zoom, as the firm looks…


Continue reading “Samsung unveils the Galaxy S4 Zoom with 16MP camera and 10x optical zoom” »

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

ICare4Autism Conference at Albert Einstein College of Medicine Attracts Over 300 People

ICare4Autism Conference at Albert Einstein College of Medicine Attracts Over 300 People (via MarketWired)

SOURCE: Icare4autism June 07, 2013 10:34 ET NEW YORK, NY–(Marketwired – Jun 7, 2013) – On June 5, 2013 the International Center for Autism Research and Education (ICare4Autism) held the conference, “Autism: Cutting Edge Research and Promising Treatment Approaches,” at Albert Einstein College of Medicine…


Continue reading “ICare4Autism Conference at Albert Einstein College of Medicine Attracts Over 300 People” »

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

8 awesome geeky gifts for dad this Father’s Day

8 awesome geeky gifts for dad this Father’s Day (via http://sarahsfav.es)

A friendly reminder that Father’s Day is on Sunday, June 16. If your dad isn’t afraid to fly his geek flag, then he’s a perfect candiate for our curated list of geeky gifts. Show the man who helped make you who you are today some extra special love this year. This slideshow requires JavaScript…


Continue reading “8 awesome geeky gifts for dad this Father’s Day” »

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

NFL Alumni ‘Caring for Kids’ by Supporting Autism Think Tank

NFL Alumni 'Caring for Kids' by Supporting Autism Think Tank (via MarketWired)

SOURCE: NFL Alumni Association June 07, 2013 06:00 ET GLADSTONE, NJ–(Marketwired – Jun 7, 2013) –  The NFL Alumni Association will support a benefit event for the Autism Think Tank on June 28, 2013 in Gladstone, NJ, underscoring the organization’s commitment to “Caring for Kids” in need. “Autism


Continue reading “NFL Alumni ‘Caring for Kids’ by Supporting Autism Think Tank” »

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

Model: 15504 PortaGrip with 811 Suction Cup Mount–> A tech review from Technewszone.com

Please check out Panavise for your mounting needs at http://www.panavise.com/index.html?pageID=1&page=full&–eqskudatarq=235

I recently had the opportunity to review the portagrip by Panavise.

It is a nice affordable solution for mounting your smartphone while in a vehicle or on a smooth table. It is great to use with your gps or navigation software or while listening to music while in your vehicle.

I liked the design, the flexibility of its’ use. It can be used in a variety of ways on any smooth surface typically for the window or it seems a glass conference table as well. It can also be used to view a video while eating and not driving in the car or at a restaurant.

It is definitely a must have item for the frequent driver or the long distance driver or those that travel and use their smart phone for navigation!

Here is a brief overview video that I did on the portagrip–>

 

Here is a review from Cnet as well on the Panavise Portagrip as well–>

http://reviews.cnet.com/2300-10863_7-10016743-6.html

A side view of the Panavise PORTAGRIP
A side view of the Panavise PORTAGRIP
The packaging for the panagrip
The packaging for the panagrip
Panagrip
Panagrip
Panagrip in action with a Samsung Galaxy s3
Panagrip in action with a Samsung Galaxy s3

Specifications:

Model: 15504  PortaGrip with 811 Suction Cup Mount

The perfect solution for holding your iPhone/Smartphone!

The PortaGrip Universal Phone Holder with 811 Suction Cup Mount securely holds your mobile phone while you drive.

• Rubberized indexed grippers and foam backed cradle won’t scratch your device

• Quick release button for easy phone access

• Vertical low profile grips allow full access to touch screens

• Side arms adjust from 2.25″ to 3.75″ in width to fit nearly any phone

• Ratcheted feet allow for access to data ports

• PanaVise Tilt, Turn & Rotate = fully adjustable

• Low profile design minimizes mount behind phone

• Powerful suction cup mounts to any smooth non-porous surface. Easily move from vehicle to vehicle or stow for security

 

You can buy the Model 15504 at the following stores: Msrp for 15504 is $29.99

BH Photo–>http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/967883-REG/panavise_15504_portagrip_phone_holder_with.html

Smartphone experts
http://store.smartphoneexperts.com/panavise-portagrip-with-suction-cup-mount/3A78A13644.htm

Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/PANAVISE-PortaGrip–Vehicle-Smartphone-Suction/dp/B00CLIRAVQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1370911446&sr=1-1&keywords=panavise+15504+portagrip

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

mophie juice pack® – Samsung Galaxy S® III battery case and Powerstation– A Technewszone Overview

Recently I had the opportunity to test and review the mophie juice pack® – Samsung Galaxy S® III battery case. I was quite impressed to say the least. I also had the opportunity to test the powerstation battery pack as well.

The design and construction of both  were very nice. I tested the black juice pack with my Samsung Galaxy S3 and really like how it felt in the hand as well as the radical increase in battery life and its’ ability ability to let the phone be used for a long duration. I also tested the mophie juice pack powerstation® and it is also a solid device that really improves the life of products for people that need to charge their devices when away from a convenient power plus or usb port. It would be great on a train, bus, ship or airplane or for use while camping.

Samsung Galaxy s3 Juice pack 1
Samsung Galaxy s3 Juice pack 1

Mophie Juice Pack

And images of the powerstation:–>

Mophie Juice Pack Samsung Galaxy s3
Mophie Juice Pack Samsung Galaxy s3

IMG_0177

A review from our Friends at ubergizomo, http://www.ubergizmo.com/2012/11/a-mophie-juice-pack-for-the-samsung-galaxy-s3/ too.

Our brief Youtube overview videos #1, the juicepack for Samsung Galaxy s3–>

Our second brief overview video on the Mophie Powerstation power pack–>

Here is a simple video with regards to juice pack as well from Mobile Nations Gear!!–>

In regards to the Juice Pack Mophie states that it offers the following specifications:

Additional Battery Hours:

Galaxy S III:
Talk Time: Up to 9 hours on 3G | Up to 7 hours on 4G
Internet Use: Up to 9 hours on 4G | Up to 11 hours on Wi-Fi
Audio Playback: Up to 32 hours
Video Playback: Up to 8 hours

 

Specifications

Product Dimensions: 5.91 in x 2.97 in x 0.67 in
Battery Capacity: 2300 mAh
Estimated Shipping Weight: 1lbs
Item model number: 2200_JP-SSG-BLK, 2245_JP-SSG-WHT
Shipping: This product ships world wide

Product Category: Cell Phone External Battery
Product Compatibility: Galaxy S III not included
Package Content Included: mophie juice pack®, USB-micro cable, User’s Manual
Patent: Pending

as far as the Powerstation

Specifications

Product Dimensions: 2.28 in x 4.09 in x 0.53 in
Battery Capacity: 4000 mAh
Estimated Shipping Weight: 1lbs
Item model number: 2027_JPU-PWRSTION-2
Shipping: This product ships world wide

Product Category: USB Battery Charger
Product Compatibility: Smart phones, tablets & gaming devices
Package Content Included: mophie juice pack powerstation®, USB charging cable, User Manual
Patent Pending: iPhone, iPad, iPod not included

In summary I was impressed with real world testing of both products, their quality of build, the increased battery life for my devices, and their ease of use as well.

Please check these products out on Mophies website as well–> http://www.mophie.com!!

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Four hundred kids with autism in Jackson County: Separating fact from confusion

Four hundred kids with autism in Jackson County: Separating fact from confusion (via The Jackson Citizen Patriot)

JACKSON, MI – Almost everyone, by now, must know a child with some level of autism. Two hundred and sixty children in Jackson Public Schools are diagnosed with autism-related disorders such as Asperger’s Syndrome, said Greg Gallagher, CEO of Recovery Technology in Jackson. Nationwide, one child in…


Continue reading “Four hundred kids with autism in Jackson County: Separating fact from confusion” »

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment

Simon proposal would ensure treatment for all children within autism spectrum

Simon proposal would ensure treatment for all children within autism spectrum (via Hunterdon Democrat)

  Families with autistic children would have a clearer path toward treatment under legislation recently introduced by Assemblywoman Donna Simon. The legislation, A-3981, would clarify the intent of New Jersey’s 2009 law guaranteeing insurance coverage for autism treatment. “Although New Jersey was…


Continue reading “Simon proposal would ensure treatment for all children within autism spectrum” »

Share this:
Share this page via Email Share this page via Stumble Upon Share this page via Digg this Share this page via Facebook Share this page via Twitter

Posted in Tech News Zone and Paying it forward for Autism Zone | Leave a comment