Autism Society Of Michigan

Auto Pilot returns to stage for autism benefit

The folks at Guitar Center's Roseville store have started something pretty cool. They've organized a series of benefit shows, and each one will support a cause that touches an employee at the store. Next up: A batch of local bands will rock for autism on Saturday at the Hayloft in Mt. Clemens.

The store employees held their first benefit show in March with proceeds benefitting the MS Society of Michigan. "I want to get the store out to the community in more than just the sales way," says Doug Reaves, the general manager. "We actually care about things in our community."

Autism hits close to home for Reaves. His 7-year-old-year nephew is autistic.

All the bands on Saturday's bill -- Auto Pilot, Telecollision, Ace & the Exit Wounds, A.D.D. and Dark Avenger -- have ties to Guitar Center's Roseville location or have been directly affected by autism.

Reaves will play bass with hip-hop band Ace & the Exit Wounds. Dark Avenger is a west-side metal band led by guitarists Ryan Goldsworthy and Josh Wizinsky. Both guitarists are autistic and exceptionally talented.

Erik Ledendorph -- guitarist for rock band Telecollision -- is a former teacher-coach for autistic kids. Hip-hop band A.D.D. and progressive rockers Auto Pilot both have members that work at the Roseville Guitar Center.

Auto Pilot will headline at Saturday's benefit. It's the group's first show since it disbanded five years ago.

At the urging of Reaves, all original members have regrouped and rehearsals have been going well. "It's retouched what we loved to do for so long," says keyboardist Alan Gadzinski. "This is my heart and soul."

Saturday's performance will serve as an official relaunch. "We're going to write a new album," says Gadzinski. "It's going to be another concept album with more bluesy-rock tones, but we'll still have the old heartbeat of Auto Pilot."

Before disbanding in 2006, the group released four albums. Saturday's set list will pull heavily from its last record, "House of Sleep," but the group will play material from all of its releases.

Doors at 7 p.m., music at 8 p.m. Saturday, the Hayloft, 140 N. Main, Mt. Clemens. 586-468-1010. Admission is a minimum $7 donation. Proceeds to Autism Speaks, which researches autism causes, prevention, treatments and raises autism awareness.

Cool music on the airwaves: Dig this!

Autism Society of Michigan and other recommendations

Right now we just have Pam's list and a few other recommendations scattered in the comments.  In the future, I will create a separate page on this blog for a master list of lists.  My impulse as a librarian is to get as many options out there as possible, and then let the individual choose what is right for her or his needs.  Might be a good idea to pass along a clipboard during meetings to get everyone's favorite web sites and book titles. I'm kind of keen on a book I'm reading right now:  Getting the Best for Your Child with Autism by Bryna Siegel, 2008 Guilford Press.  I like the way the author breaks down all the different things different ASD kids need help with and how different therapy approaches and can address those different needs.  I got this title off of the list of titles Dr. Nidiffer recommended in our follow-up from my daughter's spin through the Developmental Clinic at MGH.  I'll contact him about publishing his entire list. Another list I'd like to get going on this site is favorite things to do/places to take kids on the spectrum.  One we like is " Kids' Climb " (scroll down) Friday nights at NMU's PEIF.  They use harnesses that are tethered to a spotter so my daughter can climb as high as she wants without giving her poor old mother a heart attack.  It's free for kids five and under.  Send me a line if you have thoughts on the following for upcoming events. Since I work one Saturday a month and Saturdays in the summer are precious to me, I was thinking of waiting till after Labor Day when the library is open on Sundays to have our next meeting. I work that first Sunday, so how about Sunday September 18, 1:00 for the next meeting. In the meantime, we could have another picnic on Sunday August 15, if people are game. Last one was at Harlow Park, any suggestions for the next one? Drop me a note in the guest book.

The ABC's of autism

Parent survival manual, a guide to crisis resolution in autism and related developmental disorders

The Complete Directory for People with Chronic Illness

Super Skills, A Social Skills Group Program For Children With Asperger Syndrome, High-functioning Autism And Related Disorders

Subject Directory of Special Libraries, Health Sciences