2007 At Last!

Happy New Year!

7-Year Old Gets A Violin for Christmas!

A heart-warming story that happen last week when a 7-year old autistic girl named Pearl Ziegler received her very own violin from Eric Lewis of the Manhattan String Quartet.  Her mother contacted the musician and told him their financial situation and Pearl's desire to have her own violin.

Thanks, Eric.  Merry Christmas!

Dr. Mallika Reports about Autism Research

Dr. Mallika Marshall of CBS4 News in Boston recently did a report on autism called "Researchers Working To Solve The Mystery of Autism."   She talks about the latest on what researchers have discovered about autism.  She also mentions Asperger's Syndrome and the effect it has on people who have it (bullying and trouble communicating socially with others).

Thanks, Dr. Mallika, for raising awareness.

Jonathan the Computer Wizard!

In the article called "The Changing Face of Autism," a young man named Jonathan Galbraith has established his own career through his interest in computers and other things that are electronic.  Jonathan was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome when he was a child.  By following his own interest, it has opened doors for him careerwise and it helped developed his own Individual Education Program (IEP).

His parents, April and Lee, have been supporting him during this whole journey.  They are opening a shop for Jonathan to repair computers next year.

This is definately a wonderful story with positive results.

2006 is Almost Over!

I usually don't do year in review essays, but 2006 was rough for me health-wise.  I had a lot of stress from the beginning of the year when my telephone service didn't work at all for more than a month.  Then, my computer broke down.  I got sick very often during this past year with sinus headaches, flu, fever and colds.  In fact, I have been sick for the last two weeks of 2006 with a bad cold.  Not enjoyable.  I've spent most of yesterday in bed.

The only good thing that happened to me in 2006 was meeting the Fonz at my 20th year reunion at Emerson College back in June.

At least, that's something.

On the Road with Mother & Son Radio Team

A mother and her son with Asperger's Syndrome are taking their radio shows on the road to raise awareness about disabilities.  Monica Moshenko has her own twice-a-week radio show on disabilities while her son, Alex, has a show called "Al's Wrestling Talk" which airs on the Internet every Saturday night.  Their goal for 2007 is to take both their radio shows on the road and raise awareness about disabilities.

They also hope to see a few wrestling matches along the way too.

Good Luck, Monica and Alex!  Have a safe trip!

Should I Become a Hollywood Director?

According to playwright David Mamet, movie directors suffer from Asperger's Syndrome.  That's what he says in his new book called Bambi vs. Godzilla: On the Nature, Purpose, and Practice of the Movie Business.  He claims that the symptoms of Asperger's Syndrome reads like the job description for a Hollywood movie director.

Mamet currently produces and writes for the TV show "The Unit."  It's a show I sometimes watch.  However, I am not very familiar with his other work.  I remember reading one of his plays when I was in college, but I found it very boring.  I can't remember the title of it.

I think David  Mamet should read more articles about Asperger's Syndrome.

Chevy on Ford

Former SNL cast member, Chevy Chase, talked about the late President Gerald Ford who died late last night at the age of 93.  Chase mocked the President back in the mid-1970s when "Saturday Night Live" started airing on.  After leaving the show, he became friends with the former President and now calls him a "Terrific Guy."

The late President's body will lie in state at the Capital Rotunda in Washington, DC, this weekend.  The funeral will be in Michigan next Wednesday.

RIP James Brown

James Brown, the Godfather of Soul, passed away on Christmas morning.   I was surprised when I heard the news.  I had no idea he was in the hospital over the weekend with pneumonia.  He was 73 years old.  He'll be missed.  I remember his performance as a preacher in "The Blues Brothers" movie very well.  He also did the theme song to one of the "Rocky" movies back in the 1980s.

He once did a concert at the Boston Garden in 1968, the day after Martin Luther King was assasinated.  His concert eased racial tensions that were happening in the city during that time.  It was one of the most memorable performances ever at the Garden.

RIP

"Living In America" From Rocky IV

Kwanzaa Starts Today!

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Kwanzaa, a cultural celebration that African Americans do in between Christmas and New Year's.  It starts today.  Each day a principle is focused on.

Day 1: Unity
Day 2: Self-Determination
Day 3: Collective Work and Responsibility
Day 4: Collective Economics
Day 5: Purpose
Day 6: Creativity
Day 7: Faith

X-MAS!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

I spent the last few days in just outside of Washington, DC, with my family for Christmas.  I had to fly back today because I had to go to work tomorrow.  Not fun, but I don't want to get fired.

My vacation was okay, but I was sick most of the time.  I managed to finish my shopping on Friday though.  Usually, I am done sooner.  My cold is still bothering me now.  I have to keep blowing my nose.

Darlene Love singing "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" on Letterman

Tags: Christmas, Washington, DC, Sick, Vacation, Shopping

What is Ex-Monkee Dolenz Up To Now?

Mickey Dolenz of the Monkees has just finished playing Charlemagne in the musical "Pippin" in Toronto recently.  He has also published a children's book and a Trivia game book in 2006.  AOL News has a great interview with Mickey.  Enjoy!

'Rocky and Bullwinkle' Writer, Chris Hayward Dies at 81

Maybe it does comes in 3s.  Famed TV writer, Chris Hayward, has passed away recently back on November 20.  He wrote for Rocky and Bullwinkle, Dudley Do-Right, Mr. Peabody and, would you believe, Maxwell Smart.  He also created the sitcom called "He & She" that starred Richard Benjamin and Paul Prentiss.  He most famous for creating the classic sitcom "The Munsters."  He also helped in the creation of the classic cartoon "Crusader Rabbit."  In later years, he wrote for the sitcom  "Barney Miller."

He was 81 years old.

RIP

More Sad News - Animater Joe Barbera has died

Joe Barbera, partner of Bill Hana, has passed away today.  He co-created many cartoon charaters with Bill Hana: Tom & Jerry, The Jetsons, Scooby-Doo, Yogi Bear and The Flintstones.  Too many to name here.  They created Saturday morning cartoons.

He'll be missed.  RIP.  At least, he has reunited with Bill Hana who passed away in 2001.

Happy Birthday, Keith Richards!

Happy Birthday
Keith Richards
of the Rolling Stones

(Also, Happy Birthday to Steven Spielburg and Brad Pitt)

"Happy" with the X-Pensive Winos

Denis Payton of the Dave Clark Five has Passed Away

Sad news tonight.  Denis Payton of the Dave Clark Five (DC5), who played harmonica and saxophone and did backing vocals, passed away on Sunday after a long illness.  The Dave Clark Five were one of the British Invasion bands of the 1960s.  Their hits are legendary: "Over & Over," "Catch Us If You Can," "Because," "I  Like It Like That," "Glad All Over," and "Bits & Pieces."

RIP Denis

I feel sad because he died on my birthday yesterday.  When I was a little kid, I used to play my older sister's Dave Clark Five Greatest Hits album all the time in the basement at home.  I really wore out the vinyl on that one.

"Bits & Pieces"

42 Today!

Happy Birthday to Me!

Yvonne Christian!

Grandfather for the Fab Fourth Time!

Congrats to Paul McCartney, my favorite Beatle, who is now a grandfather for the fourth time as his daughter, Stella, gave birth to a baby girl this week.  It is the second child for Stella with her husband.  The new baby will be called "Linda" after Paul's late first wife, Linda, who died of breast cancer back in April 1998.

In other Paul news, future ex-wife Heather is livid that Beatrice, their 3-year-old daughter, will be spending Christmas Day with Paul.  However, Paul will let Heather spend time with Beatrice on Boxing Day (the day after Christimas).  He is letting her spend time with the toddler because it is a goodwill gesture.

"Wonderful Christmas Time"

Top Ten Reasons Why I Call Myself The Uncommon Bostonian

Top Ten Reasons why I call myself the Uncommon Bostonian

10. Able to pronounce "Harvard" correctly

9. Know how to drive correctly

8. Don't drink excessively at the drop of a hat like other Bostonians

7. Always being told that "it's uncommon for me to be that tall" (Btw, I'm only 5'11")

6. Used to hang out with Joe Martelle and Andy Moes (Joe & Andy of WROR-FM)

5. Told Famous Boston DJ Charles Laquidara that he was stupid to say that Three Dog Night was a bad band

4. Don't know to make Boston Creme Pie or Boston Baked Beans

3. Wasn't born in Boston

2. Before I moved to Boston, I didn't know that Boston had a baseball team, a hockey team and a football team, but I heard of the Boston Celtics Basketball team

1. Everyone always accusing me of being rebellious, inappropriate, mean, stupid and other unflattering things when in fact I was really a black woman with serious psychological problems (because I was emotionally abused) and a neurological condition called Asperger's Syndrome

Happy Birthday, DVD

Happy Birthday,
Dick Van Dyke!
"Harmony" with MTM

Somebody Remembers Joe & Andy!

I came across a thread on a message board called Radio Info.  The members post their 5 favorite radio personalities in Boston.  One of them mentions Joe Martelle and the late Andy Moes (Joe & Andy), and another mentions Charles Laquidara.   Then, they start talking about who is currently their favorites.

These days, I couldn't even come up with my own list of 5 favorite disc jockeys.

Is My Memory Going into Reverse?

A recent article in the Scientific American mentions that a study finds that the air pressure treatment used by patients with Sleep Apnea helps reverses their memory problems.  The study used three groups of Sleep Apnea patients.  One group that used the CPAP machine for only two hours, the second group that used the machine for six hours and the third group used it for more than six hours.  Each group had improvements with their memories.

I've been using my CPAP for over a year.  I'm still forgetful, but that could be the Asperger's Syndrome or the Nonverbal Learning Disorder causing that.  Also, I do come from a family of forgetful people.

Everybody Loves Karate Fighting!

A martial arts teacher called Kevin Gurganus helps students with autism learn karate in North Carolina.  He even has a son named Zachary who has Asperger's Syndrome.  It is very helpful for his special needs students.  One student with Asperger's Syndrome named Joe used to get picked on at school for being different.  No one bothers him anymore.

When I was a kid, I wanted to learn karate, but my parents were against it.  I can't remember what their reasons were for that.  I was picked on a lot while going to school during those years.  It was a painful experience.  The emotional abuse damaged me badly and I am still healing from those scars.

1910!

I was surprised to find out tonight at the annual condo association meeting that the building I'm living in was built in the year 1910!  That's almost a century old.  I don't remember seeing any information like that in the documents that I signed just before I moved in here ten years ago.  Of course, I haven't looked at any of my condo documents in ages.

My grandfather was born in 1910, and he's dead (it wasn't by natural causes -- someone shot him back in June 1981).

Will I ever live in a modern building?  Since I'm in Boston, that's very doubtful.

Happy Birthday, Jim! Wherever You Are!

Happy Birthday,
Jim Morrison
Lead Singer of the Doors & Lizard King!

"Love Me Two Times" by the Doors

Remembering John Lennon

It's been 26 years since we lost John Lennon.  I still can't believe the way he died.  It was a shock to my system when my father told me what happened outside John's building, the Dakota, in New York City.   I still can't comprehend why it happened.

"Woman" from the Double Fantasy album

Autism Goes to The Dogs!

Great article about trained assistant dogs helping children with autism in the Carolinas.  It's wonderful to interact with a pet.  I remember growing up with dogs in my family.  They were very friendly, of course.  Best of all, they didn't complain to you about anything.

What the Scientists Found Out

Two studies about autism have given scientists insights about the effects of the condition and possible treatment.  One is about the fear-inducing parts of the brain are smaller in people with autism while oxytocin seems to treat the behaviors of autism.

Here's another article about oxytocin being a possible treatment.

Remembering Roy Orbison

I know I'm a day late in doing this.  Roy Orbison passed away the evening of December 6, 1988.  I learned about his untimely death the next morning when my clock radio woke me up.  I heard Joe Martelle talking about Roy dying of a massive heart attack last night.  I cried my eyes out.

"Crying"

Doing Things for The Second Time is Great

Yesterday, I visited Salem, Massachusetts, for the second time.  A friend from my church and her two daughters were showing off their creations at an art show in the Old Town Hall in Salem's downtown section.  It was an interesting show.  I saw all kinds of artwork: painting. sculptures, jewelry, photography, etchings, etc.  There was a holiday bizarre upstairs.  I bought a holiday ornament: a bronze broom with a purple cresant moon on it.

Outside, I walked around the area and saw the Bewitched statue, made in honor of Elizabeth Montgomery's character, Samantha Stevens.  It was placed there last year.  I also walked several blocks over to the House of the Seven Gables and looked at it.  I read the book about it in college.

It was back in early July 200 when I visited Salem for the first time with a few friends.  It was in a different part of Salem.  The place had a boardwalk with restaurants and shops.  We spent an afternoon there.  This was the day before I saw the Who in concert at the Tweeter Center.  John Entwhistle was still alive at the time.  He passed away in June 2002.

Btw, I saw the Who in concert at the Garden last night after I got back home from Salem.  The Pretenders opened for them.  I had a great time.  It was the second time I've seen the Who in concert. 

I've seen the Pretenders in concert a few times over the years.

"We Got a Hit" by the Who from the album "Endless Wire"

Yoga Anyone?

I've been asked over the years to try yoga in order to calm myself and help me think clearer.  I tried it several years back, but it didn't relieve my stress.  In fact, my body didn't improve at all.  I was getting sick every week.  I gave up that yoga class after attending it for several weeks. 

Tonight, I came across this article that says that yoga has been beneficial for autistic children.

College Student Adapts and Raises Awareness about AS

Nicholas Strahl, a liberal arts college student, is doing his best to not to let Asperger's Syndrome define him.  His story is featured in an online student newspaper.  It's an interesting read.  Check it out.

Doctor Who Fan Has Asperger's

Interesting article about Will Hadcroft, who was bullied while growing up.  He realized that he has Asperger's Syndrome when he read an article about it in "Doctor Who" magazine.  His love of Daleks and all things Dr. Who saved him from getting seriously ill from the bullying he was receiving.

The bank worker is going to be on television in the UK to talk about his love of science fiction.  He has also written two books.

Bravo!

Happy 51st Birthday, Billy!

Happy Birthday,
Billy Idol

Mony Mony

Remembering George Harrison 1943-2001

I can't believe it's been five years since George Harrison of the Beatles passed away due to cancer.  We miss you, George.

When We Was FAB



George's Big Scene From A Hard Day's Night

Dave's Obit on AOL

News of Dave Cockrum's passing has reached AOL News when I signed in tonight to check my e-mails.  There was a link to the obituary on the Welcome screen.

It was interesting to learn that he was wearing his Superman pajamas and underneath his Batman blanket when he passed.  He's going to be cremated in his Green Lantern T-Shirt.

Arch is Leaving WRC

I just learned that long-time Washington DC critic, Arch Campbell, is leaving WRC, Channel 4.  He has been there since 1974.  I grew up watching Arch.  I got interested in broadcasting watching him and his co-workers.  I also learned that Arch's co-workers are leaving too: Sports announcer George Michael and Anchorwoman Susan Kidd.

Times they are a-changin'

Sorry to see them all go though.

Happy Birthday to Two Legends!

Happy Birthday,
Jimi Hendrix
and
Bruce Lee

Purple Haze






Kato vs. Robin

Comic Book Artist Dave Cockrum Has Passed Away

I just learned tonight that comic book artist, Dave Cockrum, died this morning of diabetes and other complications.  He was only 63 years old.  Dave was the one who co-created the X-Men character called Nightcrawler.  Dave's work included the X-Men, the Avengers, the Legion of Superheroes, the Starjammers, and many others.

He had been ill in recent years.  He will be greatly missed by the ones who grew up looking at his work.

RIP Dave

A tribute to Dave by Mark Evanier: http://www.newsfromme.com/
The JBF sends its condolences
IMWAN also has a thread about Dave's passing

Remembering Freddie Mercury 15 Years Later

I still miss you, Freddie.

Queen "Radio Ga Ga"

Happy Birthday, Charles!

Happy Birthday,
Charles Laquidara
Legendary Boston Disc Jockey of WBCN, WZLX and WBOS.

To wish Charles a Happy Birthday, go to his blog called The Big Mattress.

CNN Reports The Real Health Risks of Sleep Apnea

I found an article on CNN's website about Sleep Apnea.  It covers the real risks and the treatments used for the disorder.  It's interesting to learn that 12 million Americans are suffering from Sleep Apnea.  It mentions obesity as one of the major causes for the disorder.

When I was diagnosed with Sleep Apnea in 2005, my brother James contacted me and informed me that he was diagnosed six years earlier.  Also, I know of two people who have Asperger's Syndrome like also were diagnosed with Sleep Apnea.

I also found while searching CNN's website a blog entry called Inside Autism from the "Paging Dr. Gupta's Blog."  It mentions that CNN's House Call is airing a program about autism Saturday morning at 8:30 am.  Also, CNN is doing a report called "Autism is a World" at 8:00 pm on Saturday night. 

If you have cable and get CNN, please check these shows out.

Bill & Ellen

Former President Bill Clinton was on the Ellen Degeneres Show this week in New York City.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

I'm spending it in Boston this year which is a first for me, instead of Washington, DC.  Now, I have to get ready for the dinner I'm going to.  It's in Cambridge, near Harvard Square.

Disturbing Statistic: 60% of AS Kids Bullied at School

The National Autism Society (NAS) released what they learned in a research they recently did revealing that 40% of students with autism and 60% of students with Asperger's Syndrome are bullied at school.  The bullying was so severe that their parents had to move them out of school.

Bullying is bad.  I remember being bullied growing up.  It scarred me deeply.  I am still recovering from it, and it's now more than 20 years after I graduated from high school where it was very severe.

Joshua Muggleton, a student with Asperger's, tells his story of being bullied at school.

Open Channel D Please! Happy Birthday, Mr. Solo!

Happy Birthday,
Robert Vaughn!

Robert Altman R*I*P

Sad news in Hollywood today.  Director Robert Altman passed away last night.  He was 81 years old.  His most famous film was the movie called M*A*S*H, which inspired the hit TV series of the same name.

He'll be missed.

True Britt!

Congrats to Britt Lincoln for winning the Employee of the Year Award.  She was born blind and also has Asperger's Syndrome.  A truly inspirational story.  Sucess does happen for people with AS.

Shut Up and Buy This Book! Let the Movement of Imperfection Begin!

Shut up and read this article about two mothers named Gina Gallagher and Patricia Konjoian who wrote a book called "Shut Up About Your Perfect Kid" in order to start their "Movement of Imperfection."  Gallagher has a daughter with Asperger's Syndrome and Konjoian has a daughter who is Bipolar.  They want to raise awareness of who their children and other special needs children are on the inside.  Their book is about awareness, inspiration and humor.  It's a contrast to all the self-help books they read that came across to them as very depressing.

They also started their own business called Shut Up Industries, Inc.

Good luck, Gina and Patricia, with your "Movement of Imperfection."

Ruth Brown RIP

R&B singer Ruth Brown, who played a black female disc jockey in the John Waters' movie "Hairspray," has died after complications of a heart attack following surgery she underwent a few weeks ago.  She had been performing for many decades.  She was 78  years old.

She will be missed.  RIP.

Another Syndrome! Patellofemoral!

I went to see the Physical Therapist at Beth Israel this afternoon for evaluation.  She checked out why I was having so much pain in my knee that is affecting the rest of my right leg, especially the thigh and hip area.

After the examination, she told me about Patellofemoral Syndrome.  My kneecap is out of alignment, thanks to that car accident I had back in December 2004.  It is hard to spot in x-rays and MRIs.

The next step is to do stretching exercises for thighs and calves and meet with the PT once a week for the next few weeks.

I am glad I finally know what's wrong with my right knee.

Publishing Dynasty

Mary Cote-Walkden and her two sons, Greg and Tony, have created their own publishing dynasty in the short time of three years.  So far, they have published 13 books.  Tony, the youngest son, has Asperger's Syndrome.

Check out this article: Family Makes Lasting Imprint.

Ed Bradley - RIP

Ed Bradley, a famous newsman who worked on "60 Minutes," died of Leukemia last Thursday.  He was the one with the earring.  He also got Harrison Ford to pierce his ear and wear an earring too.  He won many awards over the years.  CBS News will greatly miss him as well as the rest of the world.

RIP

"60 Minutes" will be doing a one-hour tribute tomorrow night on CBS.

New Book - My Asperger Soul

A new book called My Asperger Soul is written by a woman with Asperger's called J. Darlynne Worsham.  She talks about her experiences and struggles with employment, relationships, being bullied, and lack of family support.

Thanks, J.  We need more books out there to let the world learn about Asperger's Syndrome.

Simon Baron-Cohen Talks About 2 Minds

 Simon Baron-Cohen, who is conducting research about autism at Cambridge University, writes about the "assertive mating theory," in which both parents of a child of autism have a common characteristic that attracts them to each other.  He details it all in an article called "When Two Minds Think Alike." 

It's very interesting.

Gary Numan Says He Self-Diagnosed Himself

Gary Numan, who had a hit record called "Cars" back in the 1980s, says he self-diagnosed himself with Asperger's Syndrome.  He talks about his problems with socializing and not being able to read facial expressions in a recent article.

God Bless You, Mr. Vonnegut!

Happy Birthday,
Kurt Vonnegut!

Also, Happy Veterans' Day!

So Long, Jack!

Actor Jack Palance, star of the movie "City Slickers" and the TV show "Ripley's Believe It or Not," has died of natural causes in California.  He was 87 years old.

http://www.upi.com/NewsTrack/view.php?StoryID=20061110-063207-5573r

Deval Rocks! Election Night Results!

Deval Patrick has won the Massachusetts Governor's race!  He defeated Lt. Gov. Kerry Healy, Christy Mihos and Grace Ross.  Way to go, Deval!

This is the first time an African American has won the Governor's race.  History has been made.  Also, Martha Coakley has won as Attorney General.  She's the first woman to win that position in Massachusetts.  Tim Cahill has won for State Treasurer once again.

Question 1, the one about allowing wine to be sold at grocery stores and conveinence stores, has gone down in defeat.  The "No" votes outnumbered the "Yes" votes by a wide margin.

In New York, Hillary Clinton has won the Senate race.  Good going, Hil!  Also, Joe Liberman has won in Connecticut and he ran as an independent.  Spectacular, Joe!

Last but not least, Senator Ted Kennedy has won the Senate race in Massachusetts.  No big surprise there.  Can anyone remember that he did have a Republican opponent this year?

Happy Birthday, Herman!

Happy Birthday,
Peter Noone
(Herman of Herman's Hermits)

"I'm Henry the VIII" on the Ed Sullivan Show

New Asperger Documentary - Today's Man

A new documentary about Asperger's Syndrome called Today's Man features a man named Nick Gottlieb.  It was produced by his sister, Lizzie.  It was first shown at the Nantucket Film Festival.  The one-hour feature which will be shown Friday at the Margaret Mead Film and Video Festival at the American Museum of Natural History.

Congrat, Nick!  You're now a movie star!

Dania Takes New York!

Dania Jekel of the Asperger Association of New England (AANE) is quoted in the New York Times article called Students on the Spectrum.  It's an in-depth article about college students with Asperger's Syndrome and the services that are available at their colleges.

It's a very interesting article.

Congrats, Dania, for being in the New York Times newspaper!

What My Shrink Told Me This Week

I told my shrink about my writing in my blog this past month.  "I did a lot of entries in the last few days.  Last night, I made about 8 entries," I informed her.  "Why can't you work on your book instead?" she asked. 

Thus began a lengthy session.  She was right.  I am able to restart my memoir called "Uncommon Bostonian."  I should be spending more time on that and less time on the blog during the week.  I was practically working on my blog Tuesday night for almost two hours, but they were great entries.

Don't assume I am abandoning my blog.  I will be still working on it, but I will be more focused on writing my memoir.  As I discussed with my shrink this week, I want to show the reality of emotional abuse against people with Asperger's Syndrome.  I will be writing about the many times throughout my life that I was emotionally abused by friends, family, co-workers and managers. 

I originally started working on this memoir just before I discovered in 2002 that I have Asperger's Syndrome and Nonverbal Learning Disorder.  Despite obstacles like a car accident and employment problems, I held onto my idea of doing a memoir.  I have written a few chapters before I had my car accident in December 2004.  Now, I want to go back and revise what I have written before and start writing new chapters.

I'll keep everyone posted on my progess in this blog.  Also, I will post links to articles related to Asperger's and autism here as I have done in the past.

Stay tuned.

Happy Halloween!

Happy
Halloween!
Monster Mash by Bobby "Boris" Pickett



Ghostbusters!

Running With Scissors - Great Movie

I managed to see the new movie, Running With Scissors, over the weekend.  I enjoyed it, despite it being very long (2 and a half hours).  It is an adaptation of the memoir by Augusten Burroughs, who has a brother with Asperger's Syndrome (the brother is not seen in the movie though).

It's a movie about Augusten, a gay teenager with a manic mother who is a frustrated writer, who is stuck living with his mother's psychiatrist and his dysfunctional family after his parents divorce.  The story takes place back in the 1970s.  The soundtrack is great.  Annette Benning, who plays Augusten's mother, puts in a great performance as the mother.

I could easily relate to Augusten's problem of being trapped in a difficult situation.  When he says out loud that he wants to have a normal life, I remember the many times I said that when I was his age.  By the way, I was in my mid-teens around the same time Augusten was back in the late 1970s.

Definately a must-see movie.

Trailer

Alice Cooper - The New DJ at WZLX in Boston

Alice Cooper's syndicated radio program is now on WZLX in Boston on Saturday nights.  Alice put in an appearance at WZLX-FM during the morning show yesterday to promote his show in Boston.  The success of Alice's radio show has grown from 5 radio stations to over 100 stations.

Great going, Alice!  Welcome to Boston!


School's Out!

I'm Voting for Deval Patrick as MA Governor

With Election Day one week away, it's endorsement time.  I choose to vote for Deval Patrick as Governor of Massachusetts because he has done very well in the debates and campaigning.  A lot of people were doubtful that he would win in the Primary election back in September, but Deval proved them wrong.

The negative ads that Kerry Healy has been throwing onto the airwaves does not defer me at all for voting for Deval.  Sure he defended a rapist, but he was hired as a lawyer to do that.   Kerry's use of scare tactics against Deval are lame and boring.  I don't see any reason to vote for her.

I feel comfort with my decision and will be heading to the voting booth on November 7 next week.

Please check out the endorsement done in the Patriot Ledger today.  They like Deval too.

Also, I am voting "NO" on Question 1 regarding selling wine in grocery stores.  I lived in Massachusetts for a long time.  I have seen people drink excessively for no reason.  Why give them more access for liquor?

Temple Grandin On the Move!

Great article about Temple Grandin who's on the lecture circuit once again.  This time she's talking at college campuses.  She is giving advice to the new parents about taking care of a child with autism.  Her message is clear and to the point.

I met Temple last year when she talked about her book called Animal Translations.

Heather Mills - Wicked Witch

Heather Mills was seen with her soon to be ex-husband, Paul McCartney, at a birthday party for their daughter, Beatrice.  Their child turned three years old during the weekend.  The event lasted 90 minutes.  Afterwards, Paul left with Beatrice.

Heather was last seen stealing the leftover birthday cake.  Guess she didn't want to share it with the other children.  What a wicked witch!

It seems every week that Heather makes new enemies of everybody.  Meanwhile, Rod Steward and Heather's own father are taking sides with Paul over this divorce battle.  I personally don't believe her lies about Paul and the alleged abuse she mentioned.  Everyone knows that Paul and his first wife, Linda, were a happy couple for nearly 30 years.  Not an easy feat for rock legends to stay married that long.  Just ask Rod Stewart (I think he's married to wife number 7 or 8).

Happy Birthday, John Candy

Today would have been John Candy's 56th birthday.  He is greatly missed around here. I grew up watching him on SCTV.

Happy Birthday,

John Candy
1950-1994

Dr. Tongue

Get Well Soon, Mick

The Rolling Stones had to cancel a concert last Friday and also tonight because Mick Jagger, the lead singer, has a sore throat.  They are on the second half of their "Bigger Bang" Tour right now.  Last Sunday, the band did a birthday concert for former President Bill Clinton.

Hope you recover quickly, Mick!

I Just Finished the Superhero Quiz

Your results:
You are Supergirl

Supergirl 90% Superman 90% Batman 75% Robin 70% Wonder Woman 60% Hulk 60% The Flash 60% Catwoman 45% Green Lantern 40% Iron Man 35% Spider-Man 30%

Lean, muscular and feminine.  Honest and a defender of the innocent.

Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz

AAyyy!!! A Happy Days Birthday!

Happy Birthday,

Henry Winkler!
The Fonz from "Happy Days"

Many Happy Returns!

The Happy Days Theme Song!

A Belated Birthday Greeting

I was so busy back on October 17 that I forgot to do this birthday wish.

Happy Birthday,

Gary Puckett!

"Lady Willpower" performed on the Ed Sullivan Show

Just a Reminder- I Have Two Websites!

One of the reasons I created this blog was to generate traffic for my two websites about Asperger's Syndrome: Uncommon Bostonian and Uncommon Bostonian's Uncommentary.  I just was going over the statistics of hits for both of them.   Both sites were popular this summer.  That's great.  I'm hoping to get more traffic towards both.  It's not easy because I love working this blog so much and there's not enough hours in the day.

Also, I have had health issues this year.  My sinus headaches were at their worst this year.  Fortunately, I took some probiotics back in August and haven't had a bad sinus headache.  Then, there's my knee and spine problems.  I was in a car accident almost two years ago and still not fully recovered.  Last Saturday, I had an MRI done for my right knee.  I am meeting a doctor about what's going on with my knee next week.

I am also trying to lose weight and get back in shape.  After the car accident, I really got careless regarding my weight.  Losing weight will help me greatly, especially with my Sleep Apnea disorder.  I might able to sleep better after losing a lot of weight.  So far, ten pounds are gone.  It's not an easy thing.

Another thing I checked today was this blog's archives.  It tells me how many entries I make each month.  For this month so far, I have made 39 entries.  The month's not over yet.  Wonder if I'll make 50 entries by next Tuesday which is Halloween.

Sawyer's With The Band - Jet Fuel Only

Congrats to Sawyer Goodson, a junior high school student with Asperger's Syndrome.  His band, Jet Fuel Only, caught the attention of People magazine, which will do a human-interest story about Sawyer, a drummer with Asperger's.

The band only started two years ago with the help of Sawyer's father.  It helped Sawyer connect with his fellow students and act cool.

Being in a band is great!

Al Franken Was Right All Along About Rush Limbaugh!

Rush Limbaugh is a big, fat idiot!  Al Franken was right on the money about that guy.

Earlier this week, Rush accused actor Michael J. Fox of faking his Parkinson's Disease symptoms by moving around a lot in his chair during a political commercial for a democratic candidate who supports Stem Cell Research.  He then said that Micheal J. Fox was probably off his medication.  Rush was totally stupid to assume this since he has no knowledge of what Parkinson's Disease is.  Everyone knows that Michael J. Fox has Parkinson's Disease.  There is no reason in the world for him to exaggerate his illness.

When Fox was interviewed by Katie Couric, it turns out that he was overly medicated.

Of course, Rush has every right to disagree with Michael J. Fox over Stem Cell Research and the political candidate he was doing the commercial for.  However, what Rush said was totally out of ignorance and stupidity.  It's pretty obvious that the only reason he works in the media is because they want to exploit how much of an idiot he truly is.  At least, Rush was able to realise that he made a mistake and apologize for what he said. 

I can only guess that he has a large audience because his listeners highly anticipate the next idiotic thing he will say.  It seems that Rush delivers that easily everyday.

Michael J. Fox being interviewed by Katie Couric

Happy Birthday to a Maniac!

Happy Birthday,

Natalie Merchant!

"Carnival"

Happy Birthday, Hil

Happy Birthday,

Hillary Rodham Clinton!

SI: Social Intelligence

Daniel Goleman, the author who wrote the book about Emotional Intelligence, has written the true sequel to his book called Social Intelligence.  The article mentions that the technological obstacle for social intelligence is computers because people are not able to see each other eye-to-eye.  Goleman even mentions that people with Asperger's Syndrome are able to learn social intelligence.

Veronica Victorious!

Here's an article about Veronica VanAuch, a teenager with Asperger's Syndrome, who has overcome her emotional reticense after joining the Panthers Cross Country team at her high school.  She recently ran a 3-1 mile race in 27 minutes, 26 seconds, breaking her old record of 20 minutes.

Congrats, Veronica!

Blackout!

Tonight, I was driving to the grocery store that I like to go to because it's big.  On the way there, I went throught Cleveland Circle and was surprised to see the traffic lights and headlights were off.  In fact, all the lights in the buildings in the few blocks around that area were off.  It was a total blackout.

I had to carefully drive through intersections and turn on my car's highbeams to see where I was going.  I got through the blackout area with no problems.  It was an odd feeling like driving through a black hole.  Other cars and subway trollers were moving cautiously through the darkness.

I also encountered the blackout area again while driving down another street after leaving the big grocery store.  I was heading towards another grocery store I like to shop at.  I found it odd that there were no policemen to direct the traffic.

Oh, Canada! Quebec Holds First Annual Gala for Autism Awareness

Proceeds from Quebec's First Annual Gala for Autism Awareness will go to the West Island Association for the Intellectually Handicapped and the Pat Roberts Centre.  Many parents who have children with autism attended this event.  They raised $3,000 from raffle ticket sales.

Thanks, Canada!

On The Long Road To Illnois

There's a big article in the Southern, an Illnois newspaper, about children and autism called "The Long Road Home."  They talk about treatments and therapy.  Also, there's a story about a mother who has two autistic sons in the same article.  Very informative.  The last feature in the article is about a Family Fun Day.

Happy Birthday, Johnny Carson!

Happy Birthday,

Johnny Carson!
(1925-2005)

He would have been 81 years old today.  Thanks for the laughs, Johnny!






Johnny Carson Tribute from the Late Show With David Letterman




Johnn Carson Singing as Willie Nelson

Don't Blame Television

An article in this week's Time magazine talks about a bizarre new study that claims that TV watching causes Autism/Asperger's Syndrome.   I guess it was a matter of time (no pun intended) until someone starts blaming television.  Shortly after Columbine happened, television was being blamed as well as video games and Marilyn Manson.

How many times I have I heard someone say that it's because of television that (insert bad event) happened?  Pure nonsense.

Happy Birthday to a Travelling Wilbury and a Heartbreaker

Happy Birthday,

Tom Petty!

"Saving Grace"




"I Won't Back Down" with George Harrison, Ringo Starr and Jeff Lynne

Remembering Lynyrd Skynyrd

It was on this day in 1977 when a plane carrying the band called Lynyrd Skynyrd crashed taking the lives of three of their members: Steve Gaines, Cassie Gaines, and Ronnie Van Zant.

We miss you.  Always.

"Freebird"

HAIL! HAIL! 80TH BIRTHDAY, CHUCK BERRY!

HAPPY 80TH BIRTHDAY,

CHUCK BERRY!

MANY HAPPY RETURNS!   YOU MADE IT TO THE ULITIMATE MILESTONE!  80!

"JOHNNY B. GOODE" With John Lennon

Time Interviews Clint Eastwood

With "Flags of Our Fathers" coming out soon, Time magazine interviews the movie's director, Clint Eastwood, about "The Burden of Heroes."  The movie is about the men who raised the American flag at Imo Jima during the end of World War II.  Clint, who has played heroes in past movies, talks to the Time interviewer about what is or isn't a hero.

It's very interesting to read.  Check it out.

See the Trailer for "Flags of Our Fathers"

Should I Join The X-Men? A Genetic Mutation Raises Autism Risk!

An article called "Mutation Raises Autism Risk" says that researchers have found a mutation in the gene called "Met" and believe that raises the risk of autism.  The gene is involved with brain development, the immune system and the gastrointestonial system.  Autism affects these areas.

If I did join the X-Men, I would call myself "Uncommon Bostonian."

A Good Reason To Listen to NPR on Monday

A teen with Asperger's Syndrome named Joshua Yuchasz will be telling the world about himself on NPR this Monday, October 16.  He'll be on the "What I Believe" segment during the "All Things Considered" news show talking about his life as a high schooler.

Good luck, Josh! 

He will be reading his essay about his being different on the radio program.

Dan Aykroyd told the whole world that he has Asperger's Syndrome on NPR a couple of years ago.

For more details: go to "All Things Considered"

Here is a direct link to Josh's Essay: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6254308

Maui Rocks! Earthquakes Hit Hawaii Islands!

Citizens of Hawaii got a jolt today from two earthquakes today.  Former Boston disc jockey is okay, but he's still in hiding for now (he calls it a sabbatical).  He should be back on his blog and his Maui radio show next month. 

For details: check out The Big Mattress, Charles' blog.  You can even find a comment from an old friend of his:

"Charles is enjoying a short vacation. He wanted me to tell you folks to be sure and vote republican."

Posted by: Mark Parenteau | October 15, 2006 03:30 PM

Celebrating John Belushi

Last night, I went to a benefit event at the Regent Theatre in Arlington, Massachusetts, hosted by Right Turn, a non-profit organization that helps creative people with addictions, illnesses, and psychiatric issues.  The event was called "Celebrating John Belushi" that featured his widow, Judy Belushi-Pisano.  She talked about her life with John.

They also had a blues band and singers performing a two-hour concert that was spectacular.  There was a live auction and a raffle.  I won a set of jewelry: a necklace, braclet and earrings.  They look great on me.

The finale was the showing of the Blues Brothers movie.  It was definately a great time.

Btw, Dan Aykroyd also has Asperger's Syndrome, just like me.

John Belushi was my favorite cast member of "Saturday Night Live."  I started watching it in 1977.  I loved watching the original cast.  They were the funniest and the best cast the show ever had.

I still remember the day that I found out that John had died of a drug overdose (March 5, 1982).  I was a senior in high school.  I was already home from school that day.  My parents were at the dental office where they worked.  I was a latch-key kid.  In the basement of the house was the stereo and my records as well as Smokey, my cat, and Emma, my dog.  I listened to my Blues Brothers albums.  Then, I went to the kitchen to get the food ready for dinner and turned on the radio.  I listened to Q107-FM in Washington, DC at the time.

Five minutes later, Dave Thompson, the disc jockey, stopped the music and allowed their news man, Steve Palmer, to come on the air with breaking news.  John Belushi had died in Los Angeles.

I went into shock, screamed "No!" and started crying non-stop for the rest of the evening.

Watching him on the television and at the movies always cheered me up a lot while I was growing during those difficult years, especially after my brother Alfred died.  In fact, Alfred's death was the day before the Blues Brothers movie debuted in the theatres in June 1980.  I saw the movie just a few days after Alfred died, just before his funeral.

Birthday Bound on Friday the 13th

Happy Birthday,

Paul Simon!


Paul Simon on Saturday Night Live with the Beatles' George Harrison

Tower and Virgin: Both Going Out of Business

This week, I went to both Tower Records in Cambridge and Virgin Megastore in Boston.  I wasn't planning on going to these places, but both are going out of business.  It was a few weeks ago when Virgin Megastores announced that everything in their store must go.  Just last week, Tower Records announced that they are closing their entire chain.

Seems like both the Internet and iTunes killed the record store chain stars.

I bought only two DVDs at Tower back on Sunday.  Both of them contained episodes of the Lone Ranger TV show starring Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels.  The CDs and DVDs were at a discount of 10% off the regular price while magazines were 30% off the regular price.  No wonder they're going out of business.

Tonight, I went to the Virgin Megastore after work.  They had apparel at a discount of 75% off while CDs and DVDs were 50% off.  I bought a DVD of Silver Streak starring Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor, a DVD of Absolute Power starring Clint Eastwood, and a Best of Dean Martin CD.  Why are they going out of business?  These were great deals.  That place is closing on November 4.

I was at the opening of the Virgin Megastore in Boston back in February 2002.  Richard Branson himself was there dressed as the Mad Hatter.  It was his "Boston Tea Party."  All the major TV and radio stations were covering the event.  Bradley Jay was there for WBCN do a live on the spot broadcast of the opening.

Before the Virgin Megastore opened at that location (Newbury Street and Mass Avenue) in Boston, it was the home of the Boston Tower Records which opened on December 17, 1987 (my birthday).  I bought the Monkees' Greatest Hits Part II album there as a birthday gift to myself.  In 2001, the landlord made a deal with Richard Branson and evicted the Tower Records store to the Fenway area.  Then, the Boston Tower Records faded away quickly afterwards.  I only visited the Fenway location a couple of times.  It was a very small store.  The Boston Tower Records was supposed to re-open at the newly renovated Kenmore Square, but it never happened.

Happy Birthday, Daryl!

Happy Birthday,

Daryl Hall
of
Hall & Oates

Loved their music back in the 1980s.  I used to play their songs when I was a disc jockey in college.

The Return of Homer the Mascot

Interesting story about the return of a high school's mascot, thanks to a student with Asperger's Syndrome.  It had been 15 years since the mascot was last used.  Nate, the student with Asperger's Syndrome, enjoys wearing the suit.  What a wonderful way to start high school in Burlington, Iowa.

Reseachers Trying to Solve Autism's Mysteries

I found another article that talks about efforts at other labs that are trying to find what causes autism.  One lab is going to use mice.  Families are donating DNA samples with another lab.  Could it be a drug that the baby or mother took during pregnancy?

Lots of questions out there.  It's nice to know that the reseachers and scientists are active in finding what cause autism and Asperger's in people.  Twenty years ago, this wasn't happening.

Better late than never.  It was twenty years ago when I graduated from Emerson College in Boston.  I went out into the working world and had a very difficult time.  Not one person thought that I might have a neurological disorder.  I remember that people treated me as though I was weird or just a rude person.  That wasn't me at all.  I was very confused about people's negative reactions towards me because I had no idea what I did to bring it on.  As far as I knew, I didn't do anything to make the other person uncomfortable.

CADDRE to do a Study on Autism

No birthday wishes or videos here.  CADDRE is the Centers for Autism and Developmental Disabilities Research and Epidemiology Network.  Five centers are going to do a five-year study on the causes of autism and other developmentally delayed disorders.  This multi-site study was give a $5.9 million grant from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. 

The centers will be looking for genetic and enviromental causes.  They will also examine children, fathers and mothers.  They will also look at family medical histories  as well.

For more details:  check out "Multi-State Study on Autism"

Happy Birthday, Jackson Browne (He's Still Alive!)

Happy Birthday,

Jackson Browne!

He's still alive!  The other three major stars stars sharing a birthday today with him (John Lennon, John Entwistle, and Peter Tosh) are deceased. :-( 

Sean Lennon has a new album out, and Sharon Osborne also has a birthday today.  What can I say?  I'm an Asperger person who loves music.

"You're A Friend of Mine" with Clarence Clemons

Happy Birthday, Peter Tosh!

October 9 is a big birthday day.

Happy Birthday,

Peter Tosh!

"Don't Look Back" (with Mick Jagger)

Happy Birthday to the Who's John

Happy Birthday,

John Entwistle of the Who

"Boris The Spider"

Happy Birthday to Beatle John!

Happy Birthday,
John Lennon!
A very much missed Beatle, and Happy Birthday to Sean Lennon too!




Even Presidents can sing John's song too! (Just barely)


Here are The Beatles with a little help from ELO's Jeff Lynne

Happy Birthday, John Mellencamp!

Happy Birthday,

John Mellencamp!

Thank You, Sharon Osborne!

Sharon Osborne, wife of Ozzy, is going to have a teenager come on her show to display her artwork.  Victoria Clinton-Davies, a 19 year old with AS,  has made a portrait of Sharon and her dog Mini that will be shown on her show and then will be sent to the Scream Gallery of the Ronnie Wood Studio.

Thanks, Sharon!

Did Hans Aspeger Have Asperger's Syndrome?

An article called Symptoms Misunderstood says that Hans Asperger, who was born 100 years ago, may have had Asperger's himself because he had poor social skills.  The article goes on to say that other famous thinkers might have had it too like Einstein and Mozart.  There seems to be very often speculation that many famous scientists, phiosophers, mathematicians and other great geniuses in history that had Asperger's Syndrome.

When I see articles mentioning historical people who might have had it, I wonder why employers don't hire us because we can be very beneficial to them and society at large.

Shock It To Me, Tony!

Austrialian clinician Tony Atwood, one of the top Asperger's Syndrome experts, says that more adults will be diagnosed with AS in the next decade.  According to Dr. Atwood, a lot of adults born between the 1930s and 1970s were misdiagnosed and mislabeled as eccentric or mad.

Check out the article: Adult Autism Shock in Store

Ten Years With Sally, the Mustang

Tomorrow is the tenth anniversary of my buying my very first car, which I still have with me (I don't think I'll have time tomorrow to make an entry; so I'll do it today).  Back in 1996, I set up an appointment to meet with someone who would drive me out to Kingston, Massachusetts, to see their car dealership.  I did not know how far away Kingston was until we drove out on Route 3 after work that evening and got stuck in traffic.

The rest of that night I was talking to several people and looking at cars.  When I told them that I was interested in getting a Mustang, the woman who was about the fourth or fifth person I was talking to that night got on the telephone with someone on the car lot.  I was skeptical about getting a Mustang because I didn't see any there.  The car dealership wasn't a Ford dealership.  They sold Nissans.

Then, the woman guided me outside and there was Sally, the Mustang.  They had her in their used car lot.  The car was almost a year and a half old.  It had been a rental car for Enterprise.

After testing driving it and negotiating a price for it, I decided to take it as my car.  It was almost 9 pm that night, just before closing time.  I was very dismayed that it took so long for me to get my car.  Even more so when I saw that the gas tank was almost empty!  They paid for the gas.  One of the dealers gave me directions and drove his car ahead of mine on the way back to Boston.

It was also raining heavily when I left the car dealership driving Sally, the Mustang, back to Boston.  Route 3 was flooded.  I could the car hydroplaning as I drove back into Boston.   The rain was coming down so hard that I couldn't hear the radio.

At least, Sally and I made it back in one piece to my condo.  It wasn't an easy drive for me because I had just gotten my license a couple of weeks before.  Long story short, my older brother Alfred died of a head injury after he ran his car into a tree back in 1980.  I was very afraid to drive because I thought I was going to get killed too.

I have only had two car accidents in the last ten years.  The first one was in December 2001.  The back and neck injuries developed a few months after the accident, and I went to a chiropractor to get relief and heal from those injuries.  The second one was scarier in December 2004 because two cars hit me from behind during a minor snowstorm making Sally skid out of control and run right into a wire fence.  I ended up with more severe injuries to my neck and back.  Also, my right knee was injured.  I don't recall my knee hitting anything in the car, but it was in a lot of pain like my neck and back.

Fortunately, my neck and back are feeling better now because I went back to the same chiropractor.  I'm still having trouble with my right knee, but I'm seeing an orthopedic doctor next week.

Remembering Janis

It's 36 years later and she's still remembered fondly.


One Life To Live's Marcy Walsh (Kathy Brier) pays homage to Janis Joplin a few years back.

Another Famous Person with AS - Dr. Charles Richter

Back in 1985, I worked in the WERS newsroom at Emerson College and wrote an obituary of Dr. Charles Richter, the inventor of the Richter Scale which measures the severity of earthquakes, for our noon news broadcast.  Little did I know that I had something with Dr. Richter: Asperger's Syndrome.

According to the article called "Measure of A Man: Seismologist Charles Richter," it's now believed that he had Asperger's as well.

Policeman's Birthday!

Happy 55th Birthday,

Sting!
(formerly of the Police)

Is BMA DOA?

This recent article about the 19th annual Boston Music Awards described the awards show as a snooze-fest.  Shred, one of my fellow Emerson alumni and a staffer at WBCN, is mentioned that same article.  The whole overall tone of last week's event was no respect.  A lot of the winners didn't even show up for the award.  Even one band member sent someone else out to pick up her award.

How odd!  Is the awards show dead on arrival?

The Return of Little Walter's Time Machine!

Just found out that Little Walter's Time Machine is Back to the Future.  Walter is living in New Hampshire and survived a bout with cancer.  His show is now syndicated.

Congrats, Walter!

I used to listen to him on WODS during the 1990s.  Even met him once back in 1994 after one of WODS's free concerts.  He's a nice guy.  He knows Dion and other legends of Rock'n'Roll.

To find out more about Little Walter's Time Machine: visit http://www.littlewalter.com

To e-mail and say "Hi" to Little Walter: LilWalter@comcast.net

A Trio of Adult With AS Stories

Newjersey.com has a couple of stories about Adults with Asperger's Syndrome today.  One is about a man who got his diagnosis at age 56 in 1995.  Another is about a 26 year old man who is in graduate school.  Both stories are interesting.  I had similar struggles.

The most interesting story is about the struggles that adults with Asperger's Syndrome have because most of the services go to the children with Asperger's Syndrome, but the services end when the child reaches 21 years old.

Check out this article called "Challenges For Adults with Autism."

Would You Believe...A Don Adams Tribute?

It was a year ago this week when Don Adams (Maxwell Smart of "Get Smart") passed away.  I found this tribue while surfing around YouTube this week.  It's very sentimental.

Love - AS Style

This is a wonderful love story of Rishelle Perry and Eric Fedrick.  Rishelle has Asperger's Syndrome.  They are getting married next month.

Conrats, Rishelle and Eric!

Yes, I Saw "House" Last Night

I managed to catch the last half-hour of "House," the Fox-TV drama now in Season 3.  His patient was an autistic child.  I liked the ending where one of the doctors reads the description of Asperger's Syndrome.  I'm relieved that House isn't a person with Asperger's Syndrome.  He'd be a bad representative for Aspies.

Don't get me wrong.  I love watching the show.  The reason I missed the first half-hour was that I had to go to the grocery store for cat food.  Having two hungry cats in my condo is not fun.  I had so many things to do yesterday evening before going to the store.  I had to go to the Weight Watchers meeting last night because I won't be able to attend the Saturday meeting because of the annual Asperger Association Of New England conference in Marlborough, MA.  Btw, I lost 4 pounds.

House is obnoxious, and he knows it.  Whenever I was accused of being obnoxious, I would have no idea of what they were talking about.  Sometimes, I thought they were just kidding.  I thought I was being self-confident at the time, not obnoxious.

Bill Clinton 1, Chris Wallace 0

I just saw the Clinton-Wallace exchange at YouTube.com.  I wrote this letter to Bill Clinton and sent it to his Foundation.

===================================================
Dear Former President Bill Clinton,

I just saw you and Chris Wallace on YouTube.com.  If Chris Wallace is a professional journalist (Yes, I do know that he’s Mike Wallace’s son), he should have known that you were upset over that ABC docudrama that aired last week and shouldn’t have stupidly thrown that question about Osama bin Laden in your face at the beginning of the interview because it would upset you.  I know this because I went to Emerson College, but I’m not a TV journalist right now.  I don’t blame you for getting in his face about that question.

Those Fox News people are always too conservative for me.  I never bothered watching their network, even when I had cable television.  I don’t have cable anymore because it got too expensive.  Those Fox News people don’t like you at all.  I’m not surprised because conservatives don’t like people who are different.  I know because I’ve been around lots of conservative people most of my life.  They were always quick to misjudge me on very little evidence.  Sure, I’m different, but I didn’t have a choice at being different.  It was only for 4 years ago when I was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism.

The real problem with those conservatives, right-wingers and Fox News people is that they don’t want to know the real you or even try to accept you as you are.

I hope you’re feeling better after that interview.  You should get some rest and relaxation after the busy week you’ve had last week.  You’ve had two heart surgeries within the last two years, so you need the rest.  Also, if you’re near a computer, please check out my blog, Outside In, at http://journals.aol.com/yechristian/OutsideIn/ where I write about my having Asperger’s Syndrome. 

Btw, I saw you on the cover of Fortune magazine.  You look great as always, just like you did when I met you at Barnes & Noble in Boston back in July 2004 for the book signing.  My cousin Michael happens to be one of your favorite Secret Service Agents.

Stay well,


Yvonne Christian

Christian Naked in Boston

If you caught the season premiere of "Boston Legal," you saw Christian Clemison who plays Jerry, the lawyer with Asperger's Syndrome, in the nude during the episode.   Christian won an Emmy of guest starring on "Boston Legal" last year.   His character returned in this episode because he gets in trouble again with the law (this time it's over a female dummy he had in his car), and Alan Shore (James Spader) comes to his rescue and introduces him to a sex surrogate.

The enjoyable episode is the start of the third season and included the return of Michael J. Fox as the rich cancer patient and Denny Crane (William Shatner) having a lookalike Shirley Schmidt (Candice Bergen) doll hiding in his closet.

I love this show!

Support From The Church

A very touching story about a woman who is a domestic abuse survivor and her son who has Asperger's Syndrome getting help from her church.  They helped fixed their home so she could put it on the market.  The house sold in four days.  They directed her to other services for help in getting her back on her feet financially and emotionally. 

Their helping her has also helped her son who is now more expressive than before.  Now, that's inspirational and spiritual.  I remember the times that my own church has helped me out with I wasn't able to afford food for myself (and I didn't qualify for food stamps).  I was spending my money making sure that my two cats, Storm and Cap, were fed.  The other expense was my car which was breaking down a lot in 2003.

Happy Birthday, Caped Crusader!

Happy Birthday,

Adam West!
(Batman)

Getting Back In Shape

Already I'm in week two of my two workout classes that I am attending at my job.  The one I go to on Monday is called Pilates.  This is for my abdominal muscles, the core muscles.  Last week was tough because I did not have a mat.

Last night, I drove from Jamaica Plain to Quincy in search of the closest WalMart store because they have a Pilates mat.  The tough part was that the store was located in a part of Quincy that I am not familiar with.  I spent several minutes looking for the roads that lead to the WalMart.  Luckily, I did find it.  My mat has a bright purple color.  I was exhausted when I finally got back to my condo.  I haven't had the chance to do any entries since Friday night.

I showed up in class this afternoon and had a more comfortable workout doing the Pilates stretches this time around.

The other class I take is on Wednesday.  It's called "Hips, Abs, and Thighs."  This also works on the lower part of the body.  My body felt sore after that workout last week, but I feel stronger now.

I need the classes because after having that bad car accident in December 2004.  It has been difficult for me to stay in shape.  I still have problems with my right knee.  I am seeing an orthopedic doctor next week.  Hopefully, he can help me with the pain I still have in that knee.  It's been the primary cause of me going out of shape in the past year and a half.

More Than A Mom Launches Off Next Week!

Next week, Amy Baskin and Heather Fawcett will launch their new book called More Than a Mom: Living a Full and Balanced Life When Your Child has Special Needs.  The books consists of research, personal experience and feedback from 500 mothers.

Thanks for the help, Moms!

Wish Kids CLUB Was Around When I was a Kid

A speech and language-based program called Kids CLUB has been helpful with children with autism and other language disorders.  In small, safe environments, children learn how to socialize better and improve relationships with peers.  It protects them from bullying.

This is something I wish could join if it existed when I was a kid.

Hey Jools! Thanks for the Fundraising!

Jools Holland, a former member of Squeeze and a friend of the late George Harrison of the Beatles, is scheduled to host a fundraising concert for autism in Cambridge, England, this Saturday.

Check out the article, "Jools Jazzes It Up for Charity."

Thanks, Jools!

South Carolina Sets Up Pilot Program for Autism

Officials in South Carolina have developed a pilot program for in-home and community-based services for autism.  An allocation of $3 million has been applied to this program that will help 3 to 10 year olds with autism.  The BabyNet program already takes care of children up to 3 years old.

For details, please read: "Autism Advocates Hail Pilot Program" in the State.

Parents to the Rescue!

The parents of a Hamden Township boy with Asperger's Syndrome is suing the Cumberland Valley School District and four teachers in Pennsylvania for mishandling his special ed plan.   The boy was subjected to abusive teachers and children who were bullies towards him.

The Sentinel has an article about this situation called "Bullying Charged in Special Ed Suit" by Tatiana Zarnowski.

The parents pulled him out of the school and now have him in a private high school.  What I like about this story is that the parents took action against the bad treatment their son was getting.  When I was growing up and getting bullied by my fellow students, my parents would only say to me, "Just ignore it" and "What's the big deal?"  That wasn't helpful to me, and I ended up feeling truamatized by it for years.

Good luck with your lawsuit!

Interesting Autism Letter in the Fond Du Lac Reporter

A father of an autistic child in Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin, named Mark wrote a letter to the Reporter after reading the newspaper's September 1 article about Eric Thompson, who has Asperger's Syndrome.  He mentions that the newspaper should show more local stories about children with autism and raise more awarness.  I agree with that.

Eric's story was featured in this blog on September 1 under the heading "The Unsinkable Eric Thompson."

The direct link to the Eric Thompson article:

http://www.fdlreporter.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060901/FON0101/609010479/1289/FONnews

Happy 40th, Monkees!

Happy 40th Anniversary to the Monkees.  Their TV show debuted on NBC this night in 1966.

Happy 40th Anniversary,

Peter, Davey, Mickey, and Mike!

Remembering 9/11/01

I know I'm a day late writing about this, but it was best to spend yesterday remembering the tragedy that happened five years ago than just writing about.  I remember that day well.  I cried tremendously that day.  Maybe more crying than I did when my brother, Alfred, died back in 1980.

I even thought about John Lennon because I always associated New York City with him because he lived and died there.  I saw so much death that day, and I saw the politicians that night singing, "God Bless America."  I silently wished they sang "Give Peace A Chance."

We're still healing five years later.

The Enterprise Has A Report About Sleep Disorders

Not the Starship Enterprise, folks.  The Brockton Enterprise has a report about sleep disorders titled "Sleep Disorder Patients Seek Possible Dream."  It turns out that about 90% of the people who are treated at the Sleep Clinic in Brighton have Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Boy With AS Had A Summer Job At The Camp Newsletter

A very inspiring article about a boy with AS named Paul who worked for his camp's newsletter.  It is written by the boy's  father, Patrick McNally.  Have fun reading this article called "Disability Doesn't Stop A Boy For All Seasons."

Love of Animals is a Great Thing for a Boy with AS

Michael Clair is a boy with Asperger's Syndrome who started going to school at Green Chimneys in January 2006.  Since then, his grades have improved greatly.  He also gets to work with dogs and horses too.  His world has improved significantly.

Did Dear Old Dad Make Me Autistic?

According to a recent study, fathers over the age of 40 are almost six times more likely to father an autistic child than younger fathers.

When I read this, I wondered if this were true.  When I was born, my father was 40 years old.  His birthday is in November.  He was only 40 for a month before I was born.

While I was growing up, some of the kids I was going to school with were shocked when I told them how old my father is.  It's pretty commonplace now to have an older father in the 21st Century.

3 New Studies Launched

The Space Shuttle Atlantis hasn't been able to launch this week, but the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), part of the National Institute of Health (NIH) have launched three new studies about autism.

The Institute is located in Bethesda, Maryland, which is not too far away from where I grew up in the 1970s and early 1980s.

I wonder what they'll find.  There seems to be so many different types of autism out there.  No one person with autism/Asperger's Syndrome is alike.

A Birthday & An Anniversary Today

Happy Birthday,

Peter Sellers
(September 8, 1925 - July 24, 1980)
(It's rumored that he might have had Asperger's Syndrome)

==============================================

Happy 40th Anniversary,

Star Trek!

Happy 60th, Freddie!

Happy 60th Birthday,

Freddie Mercury!
(September 5, 1946 - November 24, 1991)


If only you were still with us...

The 3rd Type of Sleep Apnea

WebMD says that the Mayo Clinic has discovered a third type of Sleep Apnea that is the combination of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Central Sleep Apnea.  It's called Complex Sleep Apnea.  According to the article, it looks like it only affects men.

So far, I'm using a CPAP machine for sleeping.  My sleep doctor wants me to take 1mg of Melatonin for two weeks so that I can sleep 8 hours.  I took one last night and slept only six hours.  That's my ususal sleep time.  I had to force myself to sleep the extra two hours.

Am I glad that it's a holiday today?  Yes.

Monday's a Holiday!

Happy Labor Day!

Misdiagnosis!

When I saw the title of this article, "Asperger's Frequently Confused with Other Psychiatric Disorders," it made me remember when I met my first therapist and was misdiagnosed with Intermittent Explosive Disorder in 1989.  In 2002, I learned that I really have Asperger's. 

I was surprised because during all those years I spend with my first therapist, I questioned her diagnosis.  I even told her that I wasn't capable of socializing, but she thought otherwise.  I had a lot of difficult years, despite the therapy I got.  It just didn't help me in the long run.  I had incidents of misbehaving badly towards others because I was very upset and frustrated when it came to socializing with others.  I thought others were just being unfair to me.

Colour Me Asperger!

Writer Adam Feinstein assess five different books about autism in his article "All The Colours of the Autism Spectrum."  Adam is currently writing a book of his own about autism.

The Unsinkable Eric Thompson

Eric Thompson, an 8 year old with AS, loves ships like the Titanic, but he loves the company of dogs.  His family is raising money right now so that he can have a service dog.  They are also trying to raise awareness of Asperger's Syndrome.

Check out: "Asperger's Won't Sink 8 Year Old" from the Fond Du Lac Reporter in Wisconsin.