CNA

You can Google Timothy Treadwell, actual name Timothy Dexter. He didn't interact with Grizzly bears but Alaskan Browns. Not a very admirable person, I'm afraid. --Brant Well, Brant, I am familiar and heard about this incident. You are most correct that both were not the most admirable and not the brightest of people. Wow, I did not know that the people that were lost wasn't because of a freak accident and being in the wrong place at the wrong time but that they lost their lives because they were doing some really stupid stuff. I'm not surprised at all that they lost their lives. I'm also not surprised to read that given all the bad decisions they continued to push the envelope by abandoning all measures that would ultimately save their lives in the end. Yikes. I can't help but equate this to another person that lost his life by constantly pushing the boundaries of complete and utter stupidity and that was that Australian guy -- his name escapes me now. Oi. Well, you would never catch me setting up camp on bear trails, setting up camp along game trails, going out there with absolutely no protection at all, going up to wild bears and attempting to talk to them and touching them. OMG. Wow. You know, I thought the people you lost in your life and your brother's life was because of a freakish type accident and being out there such as hiking, etc., and they stumbled upon a bear but obviously not. I may very well offend you by what I am about to say but they ultimately got what they deserved by doing stupid shit such as what they were doing, especially abandoning all means of protection such as no pepper spray, no guns or rifles, shot guns. Hell, my ass would be carrying a .30-06 which is some serious fire power and scary rifle (Adam should know about this rifle), shot guns, hell, perhaps even a metal cage for a tent. Angie Angie: Lol. I own a 30.06 1943 came right out of the armory packed in grease. Beautiful weapon - good to excellent stopping power. Extremely accurate. 5 shot clip sniper sight bolt action ...I even have armor piercing rounds. Brant: My condolences. It is sad that their risk behavior leads to a really bad image of these magnificently dangerous beasts. A nice looking couple. "For 13 summers Timothy Treadwell fled California for the wilds of Alaska, where he set his camp among some of the largest and most numerous brown bears left in North America. Treadwell gained national celebrity status after his appearance February 20, 2001 on CBS's David Letterman Show, promoting his 1997 book "Among Grizzlies: Living With Wild Bears in Alaska", along with his close-up photographs and video footage, often showing him within arms reach of large brown bears or creeping on all fours towards a sow and her three cubs, talking in a soft, child like, sing song voice." http://www.yellowstone-bearman.com/Tim_Treadwell.html Adam I read that as well and I also read the investigation and autopsy report. I also got much insight into his personality before making the decision to escape to Alaska. Aside from the booze, numerous drugs, mainly heroin and the mislead life...Wow is all I can say. The first time I ever shot that rifle it literally knocked me on my butt and had a bruise on my shoulder for quite a number of days after. It's a serious rifle. Angie

You can Google Timothy Treadwell, actual name Timothy Dexter. He didn't interact with Grizzly bears but Alaskan Browns. Not a very admirable person, I'm afraid. --Brant Well, Brant, I am familiar and heard about this incident. You are most correct that both were not the most admirable and not the brightest of people. Wow, I did not know that the people that were lost wasn't because of a freak accident and being in the wrong place at the wrong time but that they lost their lives because they were doing some really stupid stuff. I'm not surprised at all that they lost their lives. I'm also not surprised to read that given all the bad decisions they continued to push the envelope by abandoning all measures that would ultimately save their lives in the end. Yikes. I can't help but equate this to another person that lost his life by constantly pushing the boundaries of complete and utter stupidity and that was that Australian guy -- his name escapes me now. Oi. Well, you would never catch me setting up camp on bear trails, setting up camp along game trails, going out there with absolutely no protection at all, going up to wild bears and attempting to talk to them and touching them. OMG. Wow. You know, I thought the people you lost in your life and your brother's life was because of a freakish type accident and being out there such as hiking, etc., and they stumbled upon a bear but obviously not. I may very well offend you by what I am about to say but they ultimately got what they deserved by doing stupid shit such as what they were doing, especially abandoning all means of protection such as no pepper spray, no guns or rifles, shot guns. Hell, my ass would be carrying a .30-06 which is some serious fire power and scary rifle (Adam should know about this rifle), shot guns, hell, perhaps even a metal cage for a tent. Angie

We haven't yet ran into a pack of wild dogs or wolves thankfully, although have heard them running through the camp sites late at night. For the most part, they typically stay well away from us and we hear them howling way in the distance. Most definitely it is worth every second and experiences like no other, especially when you get the joy of seeing them in the wild but always dangerous no doubt. Wildlife photography is something I enjoy tremendously. There's a few areas down close to me that's a hot spot for birding and photography but I just don't like to frequent those places at all. I'm not one for birding unless I can find a bald eagle, etc., but these are few and far between. I truly do miss it a lot but other circumstances intervened and just haven't had a lot of time to go out "shooting" if you will but that's okay, soon enough. This year is looking a lot better for us but still will be a tough road but no where near as tough as last year. As for our case, lot of crap going on there. Some pretty amazing stuff. The nightmare of what it was quadrupled in a short amount of time. I contacted another attorney and had a 5 hour consul. He is well respected in California in this area of law. Long story short, contacted a few other attorneys. Ultimately fired my previous attorney and advocate, withdrew the first lawsuit. Signed the assessment form in turn rendering their lawsuit moot and requested dismissal which was done. We are now at step one. I've been in contact with the new attorney and we're working on the retainer agreement, time line, etc. All our claims are still in tact with the exception of a 1 to 2 month loss on the statute of limitations so we're doing a lot better now. Tired as hell but doing better considering. A lot of drama over these last few weeks but drama that helped out tremendously in the end. Angie Angie: I am assuming that this is in Federal District Court or are you still within the State Court system or perish the though the State Department of Education in some administrative nightmare. You have my e-mail jgalt44@yahoo.com if you do not want to put any "clues" here which from, what I was able to glean when I first joined, would seem wise to eliminate any openings. Also, I was truly enjoying your photography when I joined as there were a couple of threads on spiders and I was awed by some of your close up stuff. I have your white bird in full wing as one of my screen saver slide show pictures. Adam No, not in federal court yet or superior court as of yet. We are still wrangling on the administrative level thankfully. What happened and was caught before ANY hearings went forward and both suits proceeding any further. Some issues came to light which prompted me to seek out this other attorney and consult. He confirmed my concerns and also shedded light on other issues I wasn't privy of up to that point. I sat on what was discussed during our 5 hour consult for two weeks and thinking, taking also into account what the ALJ stated at their first mediation, took into account other aspects, the potential new attorney called on the morning of the 4th of this year as I was working on contacting Sacramento, drafting 8 mediation proposals, fired my previous attorney, contacting opposing counsel and so forth, it went into full swing from there. I am thankful all this shit was caught now before any of the cases proceeded further and was caught on the administrative level and the case will be in more capable hands at this point because it is a huge case. I won't post any of my pictures here on this site for very good reason as you are aware I am sure. I do have a site but it's not complete and I haven't uploaded anything in a long while, has some wildlife shots but not many. The shots span over several years and my growth if you will in the area of photography. I still have your email and don't mind sending you the link to the site if you'd like to see what's up there. Also as for discussion of all the BS going on with the case and my prior legal representation, I do not feel comfortable talking about it "out in the open" with the exception of what I've stated so far. For now, this is an area I am very protective of for good reason. I don't want something brought out that can be used in any way shape or form at a detriment to my son and if someone from that side stumbles upon this site and are given insight as to what my intentions are or any potential attorney/client privileged information. Once we get out of the administrative level and the judge rules, I don't mind talking about that specific narrowed issue and case and this also holds true for any federal district court issues, etc. I know you are a mediator and familiar with this aspect and don't mind talking about it behind the scenes and all the bullshit up to this point but hesitant on divulging all information such as what school district it is and so forth but don't have a problem talking about it behind the scenes. Angie

We haven't yet ran into a pack of wild dogs or wolves thankfully, although have heard them running through the camp sites late at night. For the most part, they typically stay well away from us and we hear them howling way in the distance. Most definitely it is worth every second and experiences like no other, especially when you get the joy of seeing them in the wild but always dangerous no doubt. Wildlife photography is something I enjoy tremendously. There's a few areas down close to me that's a hot spot for birding and photography but I just don't like to frequent those places at all. I'm not one for birding unless I can find a bald eagle, etc., but these are few and far between. I truly do miss it a lot but other circumstances intervened and just haven't had a lot of time to go out "shooting" if you will but that's okay, soon enough. This year is looking a lot better for us but still will be a tough road but no where near as tough as last year. As for our case, lot of crap going on there. Some pretty amazing stuff. The nightmare of what it was quadrupled in a short amount of time. I contacted another attorney and had a 5 hour consul. He is well respected in California in this area of law. Long story short, contacted a few other attorneys. Ultimately fired my previous attorney and advocate, withdrew the first lawsuit. Signed the assessment form in turn rendering their lawsuit moot and requested dismissal which was done. We are now at step one. I've been in contact with the new attorney and we're working on the retainer agreement, time line, etc. All our claims are still in tact with the exception of a 1 to 2 month loss on the statute of limitations so we're doing a lot better now. Tired as hell but doing better considering. A lot of drama over these last few weeks but drama that helped out tremendously in the end. Angie

Thank you, Adam, for the info. One of the people that goes with us always carries a 357, although guns are not allowed in Yellowstone. Just depends on where you are where they do allow campers and hikers to carry guns. I am no expert but I have shot more than my share of guns and rifles. I'm not into hunting and never have been. My aim can also be shaky. With such a large animal being so close, it's a huge target. Plus with others around and traveling in a group when camping is always a must. They should never travel alone or even with only 2 people especially if one or all of them don't know what they're doing or well prepared for it. For us, it's always a minimum of 3 people. If one or two get into trouble, the third is there to help if necessary. Second, it is a .35 caliber pistol and as such the shots must be placed on the game very carefully. A lot of those who take to the field these days are not experts either in hunting or shooting. In the field a person must know when and when not to take a shot... or as the movie line goes, "A man has to know his own limitations." Unfortunately many do not and if they read that so-and-so used "this" or "that" to bag his trophy they figure they can too.

LMAO, nice sense of humor and did get a laugh out of it but it rings very true and good advice. Being a photographer and hiking and camping in the back country with grizzlies around quite often to get to those beautiful sights that most never see, those little bells as well as singing and/or constantly talking will make a world of difference and keeping them away from you. The pepper spray they make note of is some serious shit too. It's some heavy duty artillery if you will and no need to be too close and within striking distance. The pepper spray cans for grizzlies have some serious distance to them. Of course, sneaking a gun in, depending on where you're at, is a must as well. We've run into a few but mostly at night around the camp sight looking for scraps of food, etc. But do have to say can be pretty unsettling especially if you're driving out there and stop for a quick picnic on the side of the road and you see a one of those huge metal trash bins that are all dented to hell and deep grizzly bear scratches in the metal or being out in the middle of nowhere knowing you're in grizzly bear country and you get that unsettling "feeling" of being watched. Have more than my share of freaky but sometimes funny stories. Although funny, it's truly good advice. My brother's best friend and girl friend were eaten by a grizzly in Alaska in 2003. They had no pepper spray--at least any they used--and certainly no guns. Big mistake was sticking around too long (September) when the bears really get the hots for food for hibernation. (See, "Grizzly Man" DVD.) --Brant .44 magnum Wow, Brant, that is horrifying and my deepest condolences. I know what it is like to be around grizzly bears and too close for comfort but never had an incident of a charge, etc., thankfully. The closest I ever got and being too close for comfort was camping in the back country of Yellowstone eating dinner and it was about 8:30, 9:00 at night. Everyone was in the tent with the exception of myself. I was sitting in a chair eating and close to the campfire and heard a roar that was unmistakable and was very close to me. I woofed down the food as quickly as I could to get rid of the smell of food and grabbed a flashlight to see if I could find him around me as I backed towards the tent. He was definitely too close. I got in the tent and we all stayed quiet and listening. Fortunately he went on his way. We all cleaned up the area and early early the next day we packed up the rest of our stuff and left to another camp site. It's no doubt unsettling. Our biggest mistake at that point although unbeknownst to us at the time but found it later the next day is that we set up camp relatively close to a stream which was a mistake because grizzlies prowl around streams, game trails, etc. Of course with a stream being nearby and seeing deer, moose, etc., is very common, this is an area you want to stay clear of especially when setting up camp. That's like putting yourself on the dinner menu. Always go in there being aware of any bear sightings, signs posted, being aware of the dos and don'ts, always carry pepper spray, a gun if possible, never bring anything that has perfume in it such as deodorants, etc., because it attracts them, bring lots of plastic bags, don't leave food out longer than necessary to make food and then get rid of evidence as quickly as possible, don't camp near streams, etc. Although we know we what are doing out there, I can't deny that when we do go camping out in the back country it always has you on edge to a degree with apprehension. I'm truly sorry to hear about the unfortunate circumstances with your brother's friend and his girlfriend. Seeing these bears up close in the wild, it's horrifying to think and imagine what that must have been like for them. I'm truly sorry. Angie

LMAO, nice sense of humor and did get a laugh out of it but it rings very true and good advice. Being a photographer and hiking and camping in the back country with grizzlies around quite often to get to those beautiful sights that most never see, those little bells as well as singing and/or constantly talking will make a world of difference and keeping them away from you. The pepper spray they make note of is some serious shit too. It's some heavy duty artillery if you will and no need to be too close and within striking distance. The pepper spray cans for grizzlies have some serious distance to them. Of course, sneaking a gun in, depending on where you're at, is a must as well. We've run into a few but mostly at night around the camp sight looking for scraps of food, etc. But do have to say can be pretty unsettling especially if you're driving out there and stop for a quick picnic on the side of the road and you see a one of those huge metal trash bins that are all dented to hell and deep grizzly bear scratches in the metal or being out in the middle of nowhere knowing you're in grizzly bear country and you get that unsettling "feeling" of being watched. Have more than my share of freaky but sometimes funny stories. Although funny, it's truly good advice.

I'm not going to Death Valley (yet). Though I want to visit Los Angeles this summer. And is that picture on the internet? I hope you have a blast out in Vegas and would be most interested in your impressions of it when you get back. It can be quite impressive for a newbie. It's truly a city that never sleeps and almost as active during the wee hours of the morning as it is in mid day. As for that specific picture, no, it's not up on the internet. But I do have a site that I won't post in public here for very good reason. The site still needs a lot of tweaking, organizing, etc., and I haven't uploaded anything to it in a long while. The shots on the site vary in time periods from when I first started taking pictures until maybe 7 or 8 months ago and this is the last time I uploaded anything to it. I had the intentions of starting it with selling my work, networking, and so forth BUT that was sidetracked unfortunately and I haven't been able to get around to it since. Although there aren't many pictures on the site, maybe 250 pictures, there are some pictures of Death Valley that were taken a few years ago I think. I'll be more than happy to give you the link through private message but I won't post the link here in public view. I hope you have a blast in Vegas!! Angie

Hi Mike, Thank you for the well wishing. I thought of you the other day and wondering how you were doing. It's great to hear that things are going so well for you!! Although I rarely come to OL or any other forum for that matter, I still think of you guys sometimes and hoping everyone is doing good. I've thought about attending a few select groups where I am but just haven't gotten around to it. What I mean by select groups is that those that are attending are authentic so to speak in the way of independent thinkers and coming to the same conclusions that Ayn has based on their own thought processes, firsthand knowledge, experiences, etc., rather than a bunch of robots such that run rampant on other O'ist sites and groups that just adopt it. Hmmm..preferably a smaller group of individuals as well as I'm not one for crowds. At any rate, I'm glad to hear that you and yours had a great holiday season!! Angie Angie & Mike; Both of you have a great year. Mike; Give us a report on the conference. Thank you, Chris!! Things are looking much better now for us!! I also hope you and yours have a great new year!!!

Hi Brant, Thank you!! This upcoming year is looking much better than the last!! I hope you and yours also have a wonderful new year!! Angie

Hi Mike, Thank you for the well wishing. I thought of you the other day and wondering how you were doing. It's great to hear that things are going so well for you!! Although I rarely come to OL or any other forum for that matter, I still think of you guys sometimes and hoping everyone is doing good. I've thought about attending a few select groups where I am but just haven't gotten around to it. What I mean by select groups is that those that are attending are authentic so to speak in the way of independent thinkers and coming to the same conclusions that Ayn has based on their own thought processes, firsthand knowledge, experiences, etc., rather than a bunch of robots such that run rampant on other O'ist sites and groups that just adopt it. Hmmm..preferably a smaller group of individuals as well as I'm not one for crowds. At any rate, I'm glad to hear that you and yours had a great holiday season!! Angie

I was checking out the online list and saw someone looking at this thread so started to read it again to get some laughs and the exchanges that went on here in this thread but skipping over some most important aspects that most here as well as myself don't want to rehash up. Can be easy to fall for someone that you think is who they are but in reality turns out that there was many other people's words encompassed into what you believe to be one person and then later find out that the person you've fallen for is actually not the person you knew but that of a few other people from their lifted works, not only caught here on OL but also caught through numerous personal emails as well. But hey, we all learn and radars are always up. Finding a good man is not easy, no doubt, and still always on the look out but not actively pursuing it and definitely not in a position to even consider it at this point. Although do know of two but always so far away that would be suitable so always obstacles. Have thought about checking out some of the O'ist meet up groups in my area but I also am a bit weary and wondering are they Randroids or true independent thinkers that have successfully integrated the philosophy into their own lives. ARI is relatively close to me but man, not sure about the die hards that recite word for word what Ayn or others have said that sometimes attend those meetings and it may be like playing Russian Roulette. Yikes. But always many other avenues to pursue and look into. As for internet and being an avenue to meet someone, yes, most definitely and hopefully their being honest with you from the get go and can base a good foundation of getting to know the person and creating the foundations for falling in love. BUT most important is to meet the person relatively soon to verify that what the person conveys to you through emails and that sort is truly how the person is in their daily lives. Despite what someone tells you through emails, considering they are being honest with you, your observations of their daily behaviors and their actions will either confirm that they are truly who they are making themselves out to be or that they don't live the values they claim to uphold through internet forums, personal emails, and such, and how you met them. Although I do know many people that have met their partners, some who are now married, through the internet and are very happy. So I do not doubt this one bit and being able to fall in love through the net. BUT most definitely meeting them soon after you met them through the internet in person is of utmost importance rather than allowing months and months and months to pass by because seeing them in person is where a tremendous amount of information can be verified, their values, behaviors, and the like. Actions speak louder than words sometimes, especially if they are contradictory to each other. Just wanted to add my two cents so to speak and my own experiences with it. I hope everyone here that is actively looking or beginning to fall in love through internet communications truly finds the one they are hoping to find!!! Angie

Oh, my, Brant, great suggestion but a ways away from Vegas, 2 hour drive perhaps but can go through Pahrump and try to short cut it a bit. But Yeah, DV is absolutely stunning and is one of my favorite photography places and a passion of mine. Have made more than my share of driving the 5 hours out there to capture the sunrise at the Dunes staying until sunset and then the drive back the same day. Well worth it for a photographer. Have captured some absolutely beautiful scenes, the play of light and the lines of the Sand Dunes at certain times of the day, sunrise and sunset are perfect for capturing this, the Race Track is also interesting, especially with spectacular storm clouds in the background over the mountain range. Perfect time to go is winter, not too hot but very cold at night. Not meaning to toot my own horn, but Oh, my, I have one image that I was able to capture that ultimately went international and got a lot of recognition for and is still to this day one of the better shots and a unique shot at that and couldn't believe it when I saw it, perfect lines, lights and shadows, the immensity of the landscape and the angle I was at and capturing 2 sole photographers capturing the setting sun up above me but the setting sun wasn't in my shot because I was at the base of dune. I was focussed in on capturing them at that angle, the lighting, the comp. Bryce, if you are interested in going to Death Valley, let me know, and I'll tell you where to go and the highlights of DV. It's truly a unique location and one of my faves. If you're taking a cam or are a photographer and have never been, let me know and I can help guide you on where to go. Angie

Mike, I apologize but can you please check your private message I just sent. very important please

I also have to smile and chuckle A lot to it but always the strange terms used and how they equate it to that. Maybe one day, not sure if soon, can discuss this even more and gaining further understanding. But will say, how I understand Rand, she wouldn't be extreme, same as me more than likely but then again she may very well have been??!! If it floats your boat but I can't imagine Rand of all people would make such a choice as that but may very well could have. To be continued: What surprised me about the particular D/s aspects of this non-V "life style" was several fold. First, the plethora of male and female submissives in relation to the total population. Second, "real" versus "wanna be internet Dom or submissive" who developed the knowledge and skill to actualize the behavior. Dommes and Doms are in very short supply. Finally, the amount of high powered men and women in the "real" world who craved the act of surrendering or transferring power to a completely trustworthy person to achieve a state of pleasure or fulfill a fantasy. Good luck with the mock mediation. As a professional mediator that Tuesday dog and pony show flat out angers me, but I understand the "stratics and tatergies" as Pete Seeger, old marxist folk singer, explained at a concert one time. Adam Yes. It's interesting but a great majority of sexual encounters to slight to the more extreme carry aspects of D/s in it. They just haven't identified it as such or they wouldn't consider it D/s because it doesn't fit into their own definition of it. I think, not all, but a lot of people when they think of BDSM, SM, D/s, they automatically think the more extreme aspects of it such as a woman fully bound or a man being very dominant, etc. But yes, to be continued eventually. I apologize if my earlier statement of the mediation greatly upset you. It's not easy to summarize it briefly here. But this district lied to the OAH and to the judge when they filed. We have given the OAH and the ALJ proof that they knew full well within 2 months of coming into the school that he had other disabilities but they did nothing and this is documented in their school files. They have numerous incidents documented in his file but claim only 2 have occurred. They continue to file papers, etc., that are again filled with misrepresentations of fact, law, etc., anything to get the upperhand. Their tactics have been despicable and parasitic. They have no intention of working with us. I had the intention of working with them but once they attempted a SARB on us in retaliation for putting him into the hospital and sicking the police department on us for his going into the hospital which is absolutley absurd and the meeting was called off as soon as the hospital contacted the school. And then when we filed our PHC statement showing even more evidence of wrongdoing, they then reported us to the DA for criminal prosecution on a moot SARB referral that was ultimately dismissed in May of this year. After all this has happened, I have no intention of working with them at all. But the OAH got on our butts both the district and my side for not attending a mediation. The first one they cancelled. I'm not happy at all at how this district has dealt with the issues up to this point and they have no intention of acting in good faith. Anyway, enough of this aspect. To be continued on the previous topic but just not sure when.

Adam wrote: I also have to smile and chuckle A lot to it but always the strange terms used and how they equate it to that. Maybe one day, not sure if soon, can discuss this even more and gaining further understanding. But will say, how I understand Rand, she wouldn't be extreme, same as me more than likely but then again she may very well have been??!! If it floats your boat but I can't imagine Rand of all people would make such a choice as that but may very well could have.

Hehehehe...this floored me, not that of Rand's sexuality but that of Vanilla. ;) OMG !!! I'm floored that you got that in there. Honestly, I'll never forget this. When I saw the beginnings of your post in my email, I had to come over and read. Well done. *sighing* Gotta go though. Always busy for both me and you. I feel a bit like Happy after Snow White has patted him on the head and given him a radiant smile! I'll share my vanilla ice cream with you some day dear. I hope your case is moving along well. It's almost like an inside joke kinda sorta now...only for those that actually got and understood that statement you made. Case is the case. It's stalled once again but still a mad dash because of so much having to be done. Time is running out. I'm tired and wanting it done and over with. It all starts back up this Monday. Then Tues is an attempt at mediation which we're not settling but is being done on our side to show good faith and showing how this district has shown bad faith all along, tactics, etc. In order to do mediation and wanting to settle, both parties have to be acting in good faith. Well, this is not the case as they don't want to act in good faith because they know if they do it it is going against their goal and what they are trying to achieve which is undermining our case against them on the OAH level. This aspect will hopefully be over with in the next 4 or 5 weeks but I'll see.

Absolutely wonderful post, Charles. Hehehehe...this floored me, not that of Rand's sexuality but that of Vanilla. ;) OMG !!! I'm floored that you got that in there. Honestly, I'll never forget this. When I saw the beginnings of your post in my email, I had to come over and read. Well done. *sighing* Gotta go though. Always busy for both me and you.

Great idea. I've thought of some other places to go and to make it a worthwhile trip for Bryce, especially his first time, because there is so much to see. In addition to what Las Vegas said, if you have access to a rental, take a trip to Hoover Dam which is just right outside of Vegas and not that far http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoover_Dam The fountains at Bellagio gives some great photo opps as well if you're bringing a camera. http://www.whatsonwhen.com/sisp/index.htm?fx=destination&loc_id=133259&sub_section=Highlights Treasure Island Pirate deal is kinda cool but for me once was enough but you might like it. It's usually packed though out in front on the strip and great to see at night http://www.my-photo-blog.com/treasure-island-pirate-show Have fun !!!

Wow, first time in Vegas? Stratosphere and if you're balsy enough and not afraid of heights, try the Big Shot http://www.stratospherehotel.com/thrills/big_shot.cfm I'm a roller coaster buff. Well, as I'm aging, not so much but it's a freaky but exhilarating ride. I suggest doing it at night. Also the sunsets up there are pretty amazing as well. There's other coasters up there but not into being dangled over the side of the building that high up in the air. Vegas is okay. I don't gamble but some of the casinos are pretty amazing inside, the white tigers. Check out some of the shows -- http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/cirque-du-soleil.htm The last time I was there, yikes, make sure not to touch too much because everything has this grimy greasy feel to it. It's a pretty nasty and dirty place. It's changed drastically over the years. Have fun though for being the first time !!!

Well, hell, can't get rid of the duplicative post up above. Been here so long and still a complete newbie at this whole thing. Oi. The second posting regarding the letter is the one that I wanted posted and there have been a few changes made between the two postings. Adam, Exactly right. That's one of the means on how we nailed them with ours and my persistence. I'm glad I had enough foresight and making sure everything was documented through emails from day one and starting from Jan 22, 2009. The paper trail we have is immense, not to mention their own records of a lot of wrong doing that they didn't take out of his school file before handing copies of his school records over to us. They screwed themselves royally there. But most definitely, always leave a paper trail. If not, it then becomes a he said, she said deal. If you copy numerous people in the school in your emails, one can't say, well, I never received it. If necessary, forward those emails to other school district personnel. It is going to be highly unlikely that ALL recipients in that email didn't receive it and claim, well, the 8 people that that email was sent to was never received by any of them. Whatever. Also, anything that you have written to the school, even just to the teacher, under IDEA laws is to be kept in his school files. When you make the records request and if these emails are missing or letters are missing, it now becomes a compliance complaint issue with the State Department of Education.

I have been in preparation for our upcoming case, and waiting for 2 motions of ours to be ruled on, as I am doing more and more research, pulling all the evidence together that we have, I ran across this and am quickly cutting and pasting areas that would be of possible importance for anyone that has a disabled child. I know there are a few here on this forum that have autistic kids. I am posting this in the utmost importance. I have posted in other areas of the forum about the dangers of restraint and seclusion that they allow in public school systems. BUT you can prevent this to an extent. And if it is done, not only is it a violation of law, but it is also a breach of contract. Unfortunately this form of punishment is used quite often in our school systems...not only is it used on special needs kids but on the general education population as well unfortunately. In the sample letter below, also make sure someone from the school or district signs it so there is acknowledgement that they have received (always leave a paper trail), and potentially have another witness sign as well that is involved with your child's education and ensure that this is included in their school file as well as a copy for you. Hell, bring it to the IEP and present it to everyone there and have it signed there. Also, if your child has asthma, include this as well, and state that such restraints, especially a prone containment/restraint and supine containment/restraint, poses a serious risk of death to your child and that it is forbidden. Also you can outline what needs to be done before the very thought of restraining your child can be done if there is an emergency; such as, the school staff immediately calling the parent(s) to come to the school before such a method is utilized. Also, if the child is acting in such a way that his behavior is extreme to the point they may use a restraint, obviously the child is not in the appropriate environment and is not being offered an FAPE. I have altered to an extent the format of this letter to also include containment. Containment and restraint are two different forms of restraint, neither should be used. I also added a signature line at the bottom for school personnel to sign. You don't want them to come back and say, well, we never recieved this. If they attempt that BS line which is typical, you can quickly fire back with, well, I have a copy here and it has 3 school staff members' names, signatures, and dates, one being the director of special education services, one of the teacher and one of the aide or what have you. I would also suggest renewing and presenting this form every year to your child's school and throughout their educational career. Although changes have been made, I'll also provide the link of the sample letter below. And it is just to give you an idea. You can create any type of letter you wish that fits your child's unique needs. You can find the original here: http://www.bridges4kids.org/IEP/NoRestraintLetter.html#top NO RESTRAINT LETTER Drafted by Calvin and Tricia Luker of the Respect ABILITY Law Center (248) 544-7223 PARENTS NAME ADDRESS CITY, STATE ZIP CODE TELEPHONE NUMBER Date (Name of Special Education Director) (Name of School District) (Address of School) Re: child’s name and birth date (DOB 8-11-75) Dear (Name of Special Education Director): My child, [insert child’s name], is a ________ grade student at ______ school. [insert child’s name] has autism and has been receiving special education services since s/he started school. We are concerned that [insert child’s name] behavior challenges now are being or might be addressed in part through the use of physical management and containment/restraint. I have NOT authorized and WILL NOT consent to any activity that involves physically or mechanically containing/restraining my child while at school or going to and from school. I know that special education law requires the use of functional assessments of behavior and positive behavior support plans to address behavior challenges. If the school feels [insert child’s name] behavior is such that physical management or containments/restraints are being considered or used, it is obvious to me that we need to follow the law, do the assessment and develop a positive behavior support plan. I am sure you are aware of the number of news reports in recent years highlighting the death of children with autism during or after having been physically managed or contained/restrained. Given that special education law requires the development of behavior plans, and given the known risks to children – and to [insert child’s name] – of the use of containment/restraint, I need for you to be clear that I will weigh all legal options if containment/restraint activities will be used or have been used against [insert child’s name] are not terminated immediately. You may consider this letter a request to convene a behavior support team meeting to discuss [insert child’s name] behavior and possible approaches to address his/her particular needs. You also may consider this letter my request and consent for the performance of a functional assessment of behavior across environments and across time, provided that I am informed in advance and my consent is given and that the functional assessment of behavior is going to be conducted and I am permitted to participate in the development and implementation of the assessment. I want to work with you and with [insert child’s name] teachers and professionals at _____ school to be sure that [insert child’s name] learns to develop positive behavioral skills in an environment that is safe for him/her, for his/her peers and for school personnel. I am certain that you also share my concern for student safety where physical intervention has the potential to result in the student’s death. I, like you, want my child’s school to be a safe and secure environment where all students can learn. I want to work with you to help create that environment for [insert child’s name.] Sincerely, (Your name) (Your address) (Your telephone number) _____________________________ ________________________ Signature Date Title/Position _____________________________ _________________________ Signature Date Title/Position _____________________________ _________________________ Signature Date Title/Position cc: [insert child's name] special education file and cumme file cc: (insert names of school personnel who are receiving copies)

I have been in preparation for our upcoming case, and waiting for 2 motions of ours to be ruled on, as I am doing more and more research, pulling all the evidence together that we have, I ran across this and am quickly cutting and pasting areas that would be of possible importance for anyone that has a disabled child. I know there are a few here on this forum that have autistic kids. I am posting this because this aspect is very important. I have posted in other areas of the forum about the dangers of restraint and seclusion that they allow in public school systems. BUT you can prevent this to an extent and putting everyone that is involved in your child's education on notice. After this letter is submitted to them, and if the school does it, not only is it a violation of law, but it is also a breach of contract. Unfortunately this form of punishment is used quite often in our school systems...not only is it used on special needs kids but on the general education population as well unfortunately. In the sample letter below, also make sure someone from the school or district signs it so there is acknowledgement that they have received it (always leave a paper trail), and potentially have another witness sign as well that is involved with your child's education and ensure that this is included in their school files as well as a copy for you. Hell, bring it to the IEP and present it to everyone there and have it signed there. Also, if your child has asthma, include this as well, and state that such restraints, especially a prone containment/restraint and/or supine containment/restraint, poses a very very serious risk of death to your child and that this type of restraint, etc., is forbidden. Outline any conditions the child may have, medically, etc. Also you can outline what needs to be done before the very thought of restraining your child can be done if there is an emergency as can be done in some school's without the parents consent behforehand; such as, the school staff immediately calling the parent(s) to come to the school before such a method is utilized. Also, if the child is acting in such a way that his behavior is extreme to the point they may use a restraint, obviously the child is not in the appropriate environment and is not being offered an FAPE. I have altered to an extent the format of this letter to also include containment. Containment and restraint are two different forms of this method, neither should be used. I also added a signature line at the bottom for school personnel to sign. You don't want them to come back and say, well, we never recieved this. If they attempt that BS line which is typical, you can quickly fire back with, well, I have a copy right here and it has 3 school staff members' names, signatures, and dates; such as, one being the director of special education services, one of the teacher and one of the aide or what have you. I would also suggest renewing and presenting this form every year to your child's school and throughout their educational career. Although changes have been made, I'll also provide the link of the sample letter below. There are many samples out there but it is just to give you an idea. You can create any type of letter you wish that fits your child's unique needs. You can find the original here: http://www.bridges4kids.org/IEP/NoRestraintLetter.html#top NO RESTRAINT LETTER Drafted by Calvin and Tricia Luker of the Respect ABILITY Law Center (248) 544-7223 PARENTS NAME ADDRESS CITY, STATE ZIP CODE TELEPHONE NUMBER Date (Name of Special Education Director) (Name of School District) (Address of School) Re: child’s name and birth date (DOB 8-11-75) Dear (Name of Special Education Director): My child, [insert child’s name], is a ________ grade student at ______ school. [insert child’s name] has autism and has been receiving special education services since s/he started school. We are concerned that [insert child’s name] behavior challenges now are being or might be addressed in part through the use of physical management and containment/restraint. I have NOT authorized and WILL NOT consent to any activity that involves physically or mechanically containing/restraining my child while at school or going to and from school. I know that special education law requires the use of functional assessments of behavior and positive behavior support plans to address behavior challenges. If the school feels [insert child’s name] behavior is such that physical management or containments/restraints are being considered or used, it is obvious to me that we need to follow the law, do the assessment and develop a positive behavior support plan. I am sure you are aware of the number of news reports in recent years highlighting the death of children with autism during or after having been physically managed or contained/restrained. Given that special education law requires the development of behavior plans, and given the known risks to children – and to [insert child’s name] – of the use of containment/restraint, I need for you to be clear that I will weigh all legal options if containment/restraint activities will be used or have been used against [insert child’s name] are not terminated immediately. You may consider this letter a request to convene a behavior support team meeting to discuss [insert child’s name] behavior and possible approaches to address his/her particular needs. You also may consider this letter my request and consent for the performance of a functional assessment of behavior across environments and across time, provided that I am informed in advance and my consent is given and that the functional assessment of behavior is going to be conducted and I am permitted to participate in the development and implementation of the assessment. I want to work with you and with [insert child’s name] teachers and professionals at _____ school to be sure that [insert child’s name] learns to develop positive behavioral skills in an environment that is safe for him/her, for his/her peers and for school personnel. I am certain that you also share my concern for student safety where physical intervention has the potential to result in the student’s death. I, like you, want my child’s school to be a safe and secure environment where all students can learn. I want to work with you to help create that environment for [insert child’s name.] Sincerely, (Your name) (Your address) (Your telephone number) ___________________________ __________________________ ___________________________ Signature Date Signature Date Signature Date cc: [insert child's name] special education file and cumme file cc: (insert names of school personnel who are receiving copies)

Wrightslaw online newsletter subscription page -- it is free. http://www.wrightslaw.com/subscribe.htm They will send you very useful information regarding the IDEA laws, recent court decisions, changes in law, resources, and so forth.

Since I started this thread on Parental Advocacy for kids in our school system and how to advocate successfully for them, I'm going to continue to add posts with information that may be helpful. A lot of the links I provide will be based on children receiving special education as these kids have more rights and control of their education, how it is implemented, what classrooms they are put in, choosing who their teachers are, and so forth, as compared to their nondisabled peers in general education. Although it is more difficult to advocate and fight for your kids in the general education arena, there are always ways around this and attempting to resolve disputes, issues, and so forth when it comes to your kids' education. As we know, our educational system is corrupt on so many levels and what they do to these children and difficult to fight such a govermental agency but there are always ways to minimize the damage inflicted upon your kids. If you don't have the opportunity to home school your kids due to your having to work or whatever reason, this thread may prove beneficial for you to whatever degree in how to fight and advocate for them. The SERR manual below is for California and Code Sections to the IDEA, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, in regards to the education law in California. You can download the entire manual in a searchable PDF file. The manual is rather lengthy, over 500 pages, so the search feature is very beneficial and bringing up specific words that you may be looking for and so forth. Special Education Rights and Responsibilities (SERR) http://www.disabilityrightsca.org/PUBS/504001SpecEdIndex.htm'>http://www.disabilityrightsca.org/PUBS/504001SpecEdIndex.htm Disability Rights California http://www.disabilityrightsca.org/ IDEA, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act http://www.fape.org/idea/index.htm In your state and if you are attending IEP, Individualized Education Program http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Individualized_Education_Program meetings for your child, by federal law, the school is required to give you a pamphlet of your rights as a parent. Always read this pamphlet to familiarize yourself with the rights that you do have that are outlined under the IDEA laws. If you question the handout they have given to you, go to the IDEA law website and search there. Sometimes the individual school, although required by law to give you the pamphlet of your rights, they sometimes will conveniently to their benefit leave out portions of your rights or will reword it in such a way that is deceptive. One key factor is always, always, always, record the IEP meetings if at all possible. Notice of your intent to record the IEP meeting must be made aware to the District within 24 hours before the IEP meeting is to commence. To my understanding, there is no specific IDEA law regarding the parents' right to record the IEP meeting but typically it is outlined in your state laws as to whether or not it is allowed. This can be used as what is called the Best Evidence Rule in a Due Process hearing, as well as any potential appeals into the federal district court or civil arena and usually is the most damning against the School District of any potential wrongdoings because most people will completely forget that the meeting is being recorded and will say some of the most idiotic crap highlighting their incompetence or sometimes admitting to their own wrongdoing and the denial of an FAPE for the child. "Many states have language in their special ed regulations about their policy on audio- and videotaping. Check your state’s regulation about recording. Schools cannot record meetings while prohibiting parents from recording." Wrightslaw "The OSEP memo cites cases where courts have held that parents have a right to tape record their child’s IEP meeting." Wrightslaw The link provided below is a blog entry on Wrightslaw website regarding tape recording the IEP meetings, inclusive of the excerpts above, and additional information and links provided therein. If your state regulations allow for tape recordings which shouldn't be a problem because federal courts have ruled that the parents' have the right, and if the school denies you your ability to tape record or will wholeheartedly object to it and will not proceed forward with any IEP meeting because of their fear, yes, their fear, and tries to state to you that it is forbidden, look through your rights, the policies and regulations in your state where it specifically states that the IEP meetings can be recorded and bring this to the School District's attention. They won't have a leg to stand on at this point and will have to allow for the recording. Schools are notorious for misrepresenting the law and facts to parents in order to prevent the parent from advocating for their child's rights. If you do tape record the IEP, this can be used in the lower court's jurisdiction as Best Evidence as well as in other legal arenas. But if possible, actual transcription of that IEP meeting will assist the Judge in making his ruling, although just handing them the tape will suffice. http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/?p=1654'>http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/?p=1654 Wrightslaw Special Education http://www.wrightslaw.com/