From Media Matters:
Savage on autism: "A fraud, a racket. ... In 99 percent of the cases, it's a brat who hasn't been told to cut the act out"
Summary: On his nationally syndicated radio show, Michael Savage claimed that autism is "[a] fraud, a racket. ... I'll tell you what autism is. In 99 percent of the cases, it's a brat who hasn't been told to cut the act out. That's what autism is. What do you mean they scream and they're silent? They don't have a father around to tell them, 'Don't act like a moron. You'll get nowhere in life. Stop acting like a putz. Straighten up. Act like a man. Don't sit there crying and screaming, idiot.' "
On the July 16 edition of his nationally syndicated radio show, Michael Savage claimed that autism is "[a] fraud, a racket." Savage went on to say, "I'll tell you what autism is. In 99 percent of the cases, it's a brat who hasn't been told to cut the act out. That's what autism is. What do you mean they scream and they're silent? They don't have a father around to tell them, 'Don't act like a moron. You'll get nowhere in life. Stop acting like a putz. Straighten up. Act like a man. Don't sit there crying and screaming, idiot.' " Savage concluded, "[I]f I behaved like a fool, my father called me a fool. And he said to me, 'Don't behave like a fool.' The worst thing he said -- 'Don't behave like a fool. Don't be anybody's dummy. Don't sound like an idiot. Don't act like a girl. Don't cry.' That's what I was raised with. That's what you should raise your children with. Stop with the sensitivity training. You're turning your son into a girl, and you're turning your nation into a nation of losers and beaten men. That's why we have the politicians we have."
Savage also stated: "[W]hy was there an asthma epidemic amongst minority children? Because I'll tell you why: The children got extra welfare if they were disabled, and they got extra help in school. It was a money racket. Everyone went in and was told [fake cough], 'When the nurse looks at you, you go [fake cough], "I don't know, the dust got me." ' See, everyone had asthma from the minority community."
Talk Radio Network, which syndicates The Savage Nation, claims that Savage is heard on more than 350 radio stations. The Savage Nation reaches at least 8.25 million listeners each week, according to Talkers Magazine, making it one of the most listened-to talk radio shows in the nation, behind only The Rush Limbaugh Show and The Sean Hannity Show.
From the July 16 edition of Talk Radio Network's The Savage Nation:
SAVAGE: Now, you want me to tell you my opinion on autism, since I'm not talking about autism? A fraud, a racket. For a long while, we were hearing that every minority child had asthma. Why did they sudden -- why was there an asthma epidemic amongst minority children? Because I'll tell you why: The children got extra welfare if they were disabled, and they got extra help in school. It was a money racket. Everyone went in and was told [fake cough], "When the nurse looks at you, you go [fake cough], 'I don't know, the dust got me.' " See, everyone had asthma from the minority community. That was number one.
Now, the illness du jour is autism. You know what autism is? I'll tell you what autism is. In 99 percent of the cases, it's a brat who hasn't been told to cut the act out. That's what autism is.
What do you mean they scream and they're silent? They don't have a father around to tell them, "Don't act like a moron. You'll get nowhere in life. Stop acting like a putz. Straighten up. Act like a man. Don't sit there crying and screaming, idiot."
Autism -- everybody has an illness. If I behaved like a fool, my father called me a fool. And he said to me, "Don't behave like a fool." The worst thing he said -- "Don't behave like a fool. Don't be anybody's dummy. Don't sound like an idiot. Don't act like a girl. Don't cry." That's what I was raised with. That's what you should raise your children with. Stop with the sensitivity training. You're turning your son into a girl, and you're turning your nation into a nation of losers and beaten men. That's why we have the politicians we have.
—Z.A.
Zachary Aronow is an intern at Media Matters for America.
To Send Your Comments to Michael Savage:Contact information:
Michael Savage
michaelsavage@paulreveresociety.com
Talk Radio Network
P.O. Box 3755
Central Point, Oregon 97502
Phone: 541-664-8827
Fax: 541-664-6250
The Savage Nation
The Paul Revere Society
150 Shoreline Hwy, Bldge E
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Fax: 415-339-9383
Friday, July 18, 2008
What Will Matter??
Ready or not, some day it will all come to an end.
There will be no more sunrises, no minutes, hours, or days.
All the things you collected, whether treasured or forgotten, will pass to someone else.
Your wealth, fame, and temporal power will shrivel to irrelevance.
It will not matter what you owned or what you were owed.
Your grudges, resentments, frustrations, and jealousies will finally disappear.
So too your hopes, ambitions, plans, and to-do lists will expire.
The wins and losses that once seemed so important will fade away.
It won't matter where you came from or what side of the tracks you lived on at the end.
It won't matter whether you were beautiful or brilliant.
Even your gender and skin color will be irrelevant.
So what will matter? How will the value of your days be measured?
What will matter is not what you bought, but what you built. Not what you got, but what you gave.
What will matter is not your success, but your significance.
What will matter is not what you learned, but what you taught.
What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage, or sacrifice that enriched, empowered, or encouraged others to emulate your example.
What will matter is not your competence, but your character.
What will matter is not how many people you knew, but how many will feel a lasting loss when you're gone.
What will matter is not your memories, but the memories that live in those who loved you.
What will matter is how long you will be remembered, by whom, and for what.
Living a life that matters doesn't happen by accident.
It's not a matter of circumstance but of choice.
Choose to live a life that matters.
http://charactercounts.org/michael/2008/07/what_will_matter_5741.html
There will be no more sunrises, no minutes, hours, or days.
All the things you collected, whether treasured or forgotten, will pass to someone else.
Your wealth, fame, and temporal power will shrivel to irrelevance.
It will not matter what you owned or what you were owed.
Your grudges, resentments, frustrations, and jealousies will finally disappear.
So too your hopes, ambitions, plans, and to-do lists will expire.
The wins and losses that once seemed so important will fade away.
It won't matter where you came from or what side of the tracks you lived on at the end.
It won't matter whether you were beautiful or brilliant.
Even your gender and skin color will be irrelevant.
So what will matter? How will the value of your days be measured?
What will matter is not what you bought, but what you built. Not what you got, but what you gave.
What will matter is not your success, but your significance.
What will matter is not what you learned, but what you taught.
What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage, or sacrifice that enriched, empowered, or encouraged others to emulate your example.
What will matter is not your competence, but your character.
What will matter is not how many people you knew, but how many will feel a lasting loss when you're gone.
What will matter is not your memories, but the memories that live in those who loved you.
What will matter is how long you will be remembered, by whom, and for what.
Living a life that matters doesn't happen by accident.
It's not a matter of circumstance but of choice.
Choose to live a life that matters.
http://charactercounts.org/michael/2008/07/what_will_matter_5741.html
Monday, July 14, 2008
In response to the recent legislation "Disability and Awareness Instruction"
I have been following the recent legislation "Disability and Awareness Instruction" (1003.4205, Florida Statutes) as it was signed into law and became effective July 1, 2008. I'm happy that the state of Florida felt that this was something that needed to be taught to our children, it is so important. And to those that fought tirelessly to make this a law, Thank You. As a mother of a child with what you would consider "profound" disabilities and as an advocate that has worked in the "disability" profession for all of my adult life, until moving to Florida. I've worked in several areas, including schools specializing in special education, group homes, and with adults with developmental disabilities, to help them integrate into the community. I was an aide, lead program assistant, and a supervisor. I have many years experience and have come to learn that in the end, people with disabilities are the largest minority population and the only one that any one of us can become a part of. I've studied the "history" and for years I believed that it began at Willowbrook. Obviously, that was not the case.
I'm concerned about the curriculum. It is my understanding that the districts are free to interpret the history and structure the curriculum for themselves. My concern is that there are several districts in this state that are considered very "disability friendly" but regrettably most are not, including my own. If the GOALS of this legislation are to include "better treatment of individuals with disabilities in society (especially youth in school) and increased attention to preventing the bullying or harassment of students with disabilities; (2) encouragement to individuals with disabilities to develop self-esteem, resulting in more individuals with disabilities gaining pride, obtaining postsecondary education, entering the workforce, and contributing to their communities; and, (3) reaffirmation of commitment to the full inclusion of and equal opportunity for all individuals with disabilities" in the classrooms across the state, in grades K-12, I can tell you today that MINE is in violation and so is Florida Department of Education. You see, the terminology used in our school system to refer to children with disabilities in the school system are antiquated and demeaning. Several states have enacted legislation to stop using the words "retarded" and that is to be commended. But here in the state of Florida, we are still referring to these children as: "trainable", "educable", and "profound". This terminology starts the children on a course within our school system that will forever hold them to the standard of their "label" and not count them as individuals. Despite IDEIA's intent that all children receive an "individualized" education. For my child, the more you do for him, the less he'll do for himself and if you expect that he won't, he doesn't. My child is almost 15 years old and I'm always told "he's not ready for that", that he is functioning on a "pre-readiness" level. Well, if you aren't exposing him to it, how will he get there?
The terminology isn't the only problem, one other major issue is that children with disabilities are shuffled into ESE classrooms in the back of the school, separate from the rest of the population, mostly "for their own safety" or for "convenience". This is probably one of the worst ways to help individuals with disabilities to develop self esteem and to expect that they'll get "better treatment" in society. If our children in our schools are learning the terminology used by the Florida Department of Education and our local school districts and they are seeing the children with disabilities kept separated and not fully included in our school system, when they see kids with disabilities shuttled to schools miles away from home, despite there being a school down the road, because of their disability, what exactly are we teaching our children? Do as I say and not as I do??? Wrong! In order to make this LAW effective, we must START by taking simple steps to do away with how we are treating children with disabilities in this state.
I would recommend that each of you read the book "Raymond's Room", written by Dale DiLeo, a Florida resident, living in St. Augustine. His website is: http://www.raymondsroom.com/
Please for the sake of our children, ALL our children reconsider how WE treat those with disabilities and not just what we want our children to learn. Thank you. Please feel free to contact me at any time.
--
Jacqui Hawkins, President
Celebrating Abilities Inc
4309 SW 19th Avenue
Cape Coral, FL 33914
239-471-7334
www.celebratingabilitiesinc.org
http://celebratingabilities.blogspot.com/
http://thelifeandtimesofastressedoutmom.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Southwest Florida Walk Now for Autism Events and News
Southwest Florida Walk Now for Autism
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Estero Community Park, Estero, FL
Sign up to walk!
Registration is now open for the 2008 Southwest Florida Walk Now for Autism! We have 37 teams signed up already and over $11,000 in donations! Invite your friends, family, and coworkers to join your team, register as an individual, or start their own Walk Now for Autism team! It is easy- just click the link above and select the "Register" tab to get started. Once you have registered, you will receive a "Walker Welcome Packet" in the mail that will include materials and instructions to begin fundraising. Please feel free to call 866-441-6227 for support with the registration process.
Supporter Spotlight
Pam Cabrera & Tracey Sain
You could not have missed the Summit Church volunteers and walkers at last year's walk. Summit had over 400 participants at our walk and they raised nearly $30,000. Their participation was led by two energetic and enthusiastic women, Tracey Sain and Pam Cabrera. Tracey and Pam are both mothers of two. Pam's son Max, was recently diagnosed with autism. Pam and Tracey are our Faith-Based Outreach Chairs this year.
Pam and Tracey are contacting local churches and faith-based organizations to encourage their participation in our walk and to tell them about some upcoming free training to educate church volunteers about working with children with disabilities. They are also providing information to churches about how to include and support families of children with disabilities. If you would like your church or organization to be contacted, or if you would like more information, please contact us.
Upcoming Events
Summit Golf Tournament to Benefit Autism Speaks – August 23 – Old Corkscrew Golf Club. Call or email us for more information.
Southwest Florida Walk Now for Autism Kickoffs – Lee and Collier Counties – September 6, Charlotte County – September 13
Autism Speaks Night at the Everblades October 18
We have a great night planned that includes the Autism Speaks logo on the player jerseys and a jersey auction benefiting Autism Speaks at the end of the game. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details.
July Committee Meeting
Join us for our next committee meeting on Wednesday, July 16th from 6:30 - 8pm at Courtyard by Marriott I-75 and Gulf Coast Town Center 10050 Gulf Center Drive Fort Myers, FL 339913 239-332-4747. If you can't join us in person, you can call in via our conference line. For more information contact swflorida@autismspeaks.org or call (866) 441-6227.
Event Recaps
· Autism Speaks Night at Miracle Baseball. Thanks to all who joined us for a fun night at the Miracle on June 27. Thanks to the Miracle for the player meet and greet and all of the announcements and VIP treatment throughout the game.
· Dinosaur Playground "A Playdate for Autism!" On Saturday, June 28 Dinosaur Playground held a fun, family event that benefitted Autism Speaks and Revolution Autism. Thanks to Jessica and Ray for all their hard work and support. For a story and photos of the event go to: http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2008/jun/28/fundraiser-autistic-children-brings-families-toget/
· Beef O'Brady's Dining Nights to Benefit Autism Speaks. Thanks to all who supported our Beef O'Brady's nights in June! We are waiting for a total, but expecting over $1,500 in donations from the event. We appreciate everyone at Beef O'Brady's and their support of our families and Autism Speaks.
Sponsorship deadline is nearing
We have already received commitments from many local businesses that will support our 2008 walk. Do you have a business or know someone that is interested in getting exposure at our event? We expect over 3,000 attendees this year and have multi-media support from local newspapers, magazines, television and radio stations. If you are interested in finding out more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Krista Rosado at 866-441-6227 or swflorida@autismspeaks.org.
Volunteer Opportunities
Open Volunteer Position: Local Science Ambassador
Local Science Ambassadors play an integral part in disseminating information to a wider audience by communicating Autism Speaks’ Science Mission to the general public:
Roles and Responsibilities:
Communicate AS science clinical programs, research resources, grants & initiatives effectively and passionately without personal bias or professional agenda.
Ensure that Autism Speaks Science programs are represented at local walks, conferences, and other events.
Stay up to date on Autism Speaks science news
Review the AS website for the latest science updates bimonthly
Requirements:
* Successful completion of Science Ambassador training provided by Autism Speaks
* Review the AS website twice a month for the latest science updates
* Subscribe to and review e-Speaks for latest science updates
* Must have access to internet
* Able to carry up to 40 pounds of materials
Please contact Krista Rosado at 866-441-6227 or krosado@autismspeaks.org for additional information.
Walk Day Volunteers Needed
Interested in joining our committee or volunteering for our walk? If you have even a few hours, you can make a difference. Please contact Krista Rosado at 866-441-6227 or swflorida@autismspeaks.org.
Thank you for your support!
Sincerely,
Dawn Itzkowitz and Elly Hagen Memoli
Southwest Florida Walk Now for Autism Co-Chairs
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Estero Community Park, Estero, FL
Sign up to walk!
Registration is now open for the 2008 Southwest Florida Walk Now for Autism! We have 37 teams signed up already and over $11,000 in donations! Invite your friends, family, and coworkers to join your team, register as an individual, or start their own Walk Now for Autism team! It is easy- just click the link above and select the "Register" tab to get started. Once you have registered, you will receive a "Walker Welcome Packet" in the mail that will include materials and instructions to begin fundraising. Please feel free to call 866-441-6227 for support with the registration process.
Supporter Spotlight
Pam Cabrera & Tracey Sain
You could not have missed the Summit Church volunteers and walkers at last year's walk. Summit had over 400 participants at our walk and they raised nearly $30,000. Their participation was led by two energetic and enthusiastic women, Tracey Sain and Pam Cabrera. Tracey and Pam are both mothers of two. Pam's son Max, was recently diagnosed with autism. Pam and Tracey are our Faith-Based Outreach Chairs this year.
Pam and Tracey are contacting local churches and faith-based organizations to encourage their participation in our walk and to tell them about some upcoming free training to educate church volunteers about working with children with disabilities. They are also providing information to churches about how to include and support families of children with disabilities. If you would like your church or organization to be contacted, or if you would like more information, please contact us.
Upcoming Events
Summit Golf Tournament to Benefit Autism Speaks – August 23 – Old Corkscrew Golf Club. Call or email us for more information.
Southwest Florida Walk Now for Autism Kickoffs – Lee and Collier Counties – September 6, Charlotte County – September 13
Autism Speaks Night at the Everblades October 18
We have a great night planned that includes the Autism Speaks logo on the player jerseys and a jersey auction benefiting Autism Speaks at the end of the game. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details.
July Committee Meeting
Join us for our next committee meeting on Wednesday, July 16th from 6:30 - 8pm at Courtyard by Marriott I-75 and Gulf Coast Town Center 10050 Gulf Center Drive Fort Myers, FL 339913 239-332-4747. If you can't join us in person, you can call in via our conference line. For more information contact swflorida@autismspeaks.org or call (866) 441-6227.
Event Recaps
· Autism Speaks Night at Miracle Baseball. Thanks to all who joined us for a fun night at the Miracle on June 27. Thanks to the Miracle for the player meet and greet and all of the announcements and VIP treatment throughout the game.
· Dinosaur Playground "A Playdate for Autism!" On Saturday, June 28 Dinosaur Playground held a fun, family event that benefitted Autism Speaks and Revolution Autism. Thanks to Jessica and Ray for all their hard work and support. For a story and photos of the event go to: http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2008/jun/28/fundraiser-autistic-children-brings-families-toget/
· Beef O'Brady's Dining Nights to Benefit Autism Speaks. Thanks to all who supported our Beef O'Brady's nights in June! We are waiting for a total, but expecting over $1,500 in donations from the event. We appreciate everyone at Beef O'Brady's and their support of our families and Autism Speaks.
Sponsorship deadline is nearing
We have already received commitments from many local businesses that will support our 2008 walk. Do you have a business or know someone that is interested in getting exposure at our event? We expect over 3,000 attendees this year and have multi-media support from local newspapers, magazines, television and radio stations. If you are interested in finding out more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Krista Rosado at 866-441-6227 or swflorida@autismspeaks.org.
Volunteer Opportunities
Open Volunteer Position: Local Science Ambassador
Local Science Ambassadors play an integral part in disseminating information to a wider audience by communicating Autism Speaks’ Science Mission to the general public:
Roles and Responsibilities:
Communicate AS science clinical programs, research resources, grants & initiatives effectively and passionately without personal bias or professional agenda.
Ensure that Autism Speaks Science programs are represented at local walks, conferences, and other events.
Stay up to date on Autism Speaks science news
Review the AS website for the latest science updates bimonthly
Requirements:
* Successful completion of Science Ambassador training provided by Autism Speaks
* Review the AS website twice a month for the latest science updates
* Subscribe to and review e-Speaks for latest science updates
* Must have access to internet
* Able to carry up to 40 pounds of materials
Please contact Krista Rosado at 866-441-6227 or krosado@autismspeaks.org for additional information.
Walk Day Volunteers Needed
Interested in joining our committee or volunteering for our walk? If you have even a few hours, you can make a difference. Please contact Krista Rosado at 866-441-6227 or swflorida@autismspeaks.org.
Thank you for your support!
Sincerely,
Dawn Itzkowitz and Elly Hagen Memoli
Southwest Florida Walk Now for Autism Co-Chairs
David Militello - America's Got Talent 2008
Boy with Autism wins the hearts of America on America's Got Talent!
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