The OPEN FORUM of the Finger Lakes Chapter of the American Dowser's Association is a non profit group looking to further the education of everyone interested in energy and healing and sponsors speakers from all walks of life. The OPEN FORUM has amazing education events and classes. Celebrate Today's Children is excited to share with you that Jamie Burke will be speaking at the next OPEN FORUM event in Central New York. Please join us at this wonderful event.

When you see the word, "autism" what do you assume? Do you think "tuned out" and "lost" individuals, or, do you assume those who have autism are gifted in a closer identity to the spiritual life? Do you think of them as individuals with the possibility of leading full lives, even those who are unable to communicate through verbal speech? What do you really know? Jamie Burke is a 21 year-old young man who was diagnosed with autism at age 3, and introduced to a method of typed communication when he was 4 years old. He began to speak at age 12. Assisted by his mother, Sheree Burke, he will share his views on his 'gift'.

Jamie Burke

He is currently a 21 year-old junior at Syracuse University in the College of Human Ecology. Jamie has used facilitated communication since age five, and has progressed from supported typing to independent typing, and typing with two hands. In recent years, he has become able to read his typing out loud as well as unfamiliar text. Jamie has been able to begin to develop useful and reliable speech. He is frequent presenter at Syracuse University School of Education and is a presenter at conferences throughout the United States. He has traveled to England, Wales, and Germany, speaking about inclusion, and what it has meant to his life.

August 21,2008 Thursday 6pm – 8pm
Hazard Library, 1620 W Genesee St, Syracuse, NY

Please contact Wil Alaura with any questions by email or phone at 315-696-6497