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Barnes and Noble, Valley View Mall, is again hosting an Autism Awareness Event Saturday, May 2, 2009 from 10:00AM-6:00PM. Please drop by and hear our special speakers, enjoy story time, mingle and network with others, meet BRAC staff, view BRAC student art, and purchase special books on autism. (*Be sure to mention that you are attending the BRAC event when making purchases at Barnes and Noble that day, as we will receive a portion of the money you spend!)

Last year, we had over 200 people come through. We are looking forward to a fun day! Read on down for the day's special events and pass on to everyone you know!!

Featuring, our special guest author and speakers: Dr. Gena Barnhill: Author of Right Address...Wrong Planet Children with Asperger Syndrome Becoming Adults and her husband, Dr. Press Barnhill, also a noted author and professor. The Barnhill's are parents to an adult with Asperger's and are noted professionals in their fields of study. Gena Barnhill is currently a Professor of Special Education at Lynchburg College. She has a magnitude of experience, including being a professor in multiple universities and colleges, Autism Coordinator for North Kansas City School District, school psychologist and school counselor, as well as a pediatric nurse.

Schedule for the day:

· 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.- Working Through Challenging Behaviors with your Child Who Has Autism- Lauren Askew, BCaBA, Program Director, Blue Ridge Autism Center

· 11a.m. to Noon- Mini Sibling Workshop- followed by story time/snack- Samantha Zaldivar, Med, Counseling Education, Associate Program Director, Blue Ridge Autism Center (Please call 777-1218 to sign up for materials and planning purposes)

· 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.- Aspergers- Will He or She Fall Through the Cracks? What Can I Do? Dr. Press and Dr. Gena Barnhill (Followed by book signing- Right Address...Wrong Planet Children with Asperger Syndrome Becoming Adults. Books available for purchase)

· 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.- How to Partner Work with the School for IEP Development- Beth Harman, Med, Special Education, Autism Disabilities Coordinator and Dr. Jessica McClung, Special Education Director, Roanoke County Public Schools

· 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.- Worship, Church and Autism. Is it Possible? How to Get Your Church on Board and then Trained -Angie Leonard, Director, Blue Ridge Autism Center

· 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.- SOAR Program-Much Needed Respite for You and Your Family. Dr. Ed Hamilton, Roanoke College, In His Image SOAR Program