NCTRC Exam Preparation Webinar

From Jean E. Folkerth, Re.D., CTRS, via the ATRAnet Listserv:

Greetings hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! For people who are preparing to take the NCTRC certification exam in January we have something else you can be thankful for....ATRA is pleased to provide you with a webinar on Preparing to Take the NCTRC Exam. It will be presented on Wednesday December 7 at 7:00 p.m. EST by Dr. Norma Stumbo.

Here is a description:
This session will address the specifics of the NCTRC exam and how best to prepare for taking it. It will cover details such as the number and kinds of items included, the computerized format and experience, and how best to prepare to increase your chances for success. Strategies and resources will be covered. The session will be repeated three times (December 7, 2011; April 11, 2012; September 12, 2011). This session will not cover information about the sitting requirements and other standards of NCTRC (See Certification 101 webinar for those details).

It will be offered at the low rate of $25 per person or college/university just like last year's Certification 101 which will be offered again in February. Please go to the ATRA website to sign up. If the time is not convenient for you, you can get it on replay for the 2 weeks following the original presentation. However, you must be signed up for the webinar!

Hope to see you on the webinar!

ATRA Midyear in Baltimore in February

From Lisa Morgan via the ATRAnet Listserv:

Calling On All Recreational Therapists...

For An Opportunity To Take Charge of Your Profession

February 26-28, 2012

Please save these dates!

We need as many CTRS' to participate in this year's ATRA 2012 Midyear Conference in Baltimore, MD.

Be a part of making a difference for our future!!! More details coming soon...

Thanks to Professor Frank Basile

Professor Frank Basile, Ph.D., CTRS, assumed the leadership for the newly created National Academy of Recreational Therapists (NART) when he was voted NART President earlier this year. In Septmeber, Frank conducted the initial NART meeting at LaRue Carter Memorial Hospital in Indianapolis.

It is great to have an academy for recreational therapy and Frank is to be congratulated and thanked for his leadership role within NART.

Music Therapy Gains Recognition

I was pleased to see an USA Today article (page 12B)this morning titled "Music Can Heal Mind, Body, Soul." The article explained how music therapy is used in the treatment of a variety of physical problems. The article contained information about the use of music therapy in the recovery of Congresswoman Giffords.

An accompanying piece listed ways music can help rewire the brain after a traumatic injury. These included: trigger memories; promote learning; elicit emotions; provide motivation; improve coordination; adn reduce stress and pain.

As I read the list of therapeutic benefits, I could not help but think that RT can provide the same benefits. Go MT and RT!

World AIDS Day is Thursday

World AIDS Day takes place on December 1st. The event has been held annually since 1998. It is a day for people across the world to unite against AIDS, be supportive of those with AIDS, and commemorate those who have died from AIDS.

New York Examining RT Licensure

Robin Waxler, of New York State, directed me to the following:

As many of you know, licensure for Recreation Therapy has been granted in three states: Utah, North Carolina and New Hampshire. Other states are presently exploring the viability of licensure in their respective states. Professions such as social work and the creative arts therapies have been granted licensure in recent years. The legal regulation of Recreation Therapy protects the consumer as well as the future of our profession. Keeping these reasons in mind, a committee has been formed to examine licensure in New York State. Members of the committee are Lynn Anderson, Eileen Andreassie, Ray Archer, Vincent Bonadies, Linda Dianto, Mimi Fierle, Kristin Impicciatore, Anthony Martino, Mary Beth Pozzuto, Rose Rothe, Loretta Sinnott, Isabel Tiffen, Daryl Willenbrink, Felicia T. Zeigler.

Lessons Learned Review by an MD

Joav Merrick, MD, reviewed An Open Letter to Recreational Therapy Students and Practitioners published by Sagamore Publishing. Here is the review as it appeared on Amazon.com

David R Austin is professor emeritus from Indiana University with many years of experience as a practitioner and academic and in this book inspired by Irvin Yalom (The gift of therapy: An open letter to a new generation of therapists and their patients) he is giving his core beliefs on recreational therapy.

In 69 short lessons (chapters) he is able to make an all round picture of recreational therapy for both people starting their work in this field and also for practitioners already working in the field. It is a short and readable introduction to recreational therapy where you feel the "fire and enthusiasm" from a professional with many years of experience.

Professor Joav Merrick, MD, MMedSci, DMSc
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Office of the Medical Director, Health Services, Division for Mental Retardation, Ministry of Social Affairs, Jerusalem and Kentucky Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine

Are We Demanding Enough of RT Students?

I sent the message below out on ATRAnet last night. It has already drawn 3 lenghly responses -- so I thought I'd share it on the RT Blog. Here it is:

Hi RT Colleague,

Are we challenging RT students today? Arum and Roksa (2011) wrote in their book, Academically Adrift: Limited Learning on College Campuses:

“In a typical semester…32% of the students did not take a single course with more than 40 pages of reading per week, and 50% did not take any course requiring more than 20 pages of writing over the semester. The average student spent only 12 to 13 hours per week studying – about half the time a full-time college student in 1960 spent studying…” (p. 70).

They also stated: “…37 percent of students reported spending less than five hours per week preparing for their courses” (p. 69). (That is 5 hours per week for all their courses!)

Reading this makes me wonder just how much RT professors are demanding of their students. If you are a professor and are assigning less than 40 pages per week in your course, and not assigning regular writing assignments, I hope you will reevaluate what you are expecting of your students.

Think about it. As a professor, do you not owe it to your students and to the profession to hold high expectations for your students?

A Big Retail Therapy Day

Lots of retail therapy on Black Friday!
(It is called "Black Friday" because retailers move out of the red into the black.)

Happy Thanksgiving to all RTs!

Lessons Learned Review Reposted

In case you missed it, here is an earlier post on Lessons Learned:

Weeks ago I promised to share information from the positive reviews of my new book titled Lessons Learned: An Open Letter to Recreational Therapy Students and Practitioners. One review appeared in the American Journal of Recreation Therapy. The other was written by Dr. Terry Long and appeared in Therapeutic Recreation Journal (TRJ).

The quote below is from Terry Long’s review of Lessons Learned that was in TRJ:

“Current practitioners (including educators) can benefit from reviewing this text as it is a quick reminder of many important elements of recreational therapy. The book is certainly useful as a tool for facilitating clinical supervision, professional issues discussions, and a review of the presented lessons definitely suggests possible topics for future continuing education opportunities. Finally, there are personal applications of the lessons as well. For example, lessons regarding values, self-awareness, burnout, and active listening skills, and aggression can have both personal and professional relevance to readers.”

Lessons Learned was published by Sagamore Publishing in 2011 and may be obtained by going to the Sagamore Publishing website. Lessons Learned is also available as an e-book from Amazon.com

University Department Head Position

WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY KINESIOLOGY, RECREATION, AND SPORT
DEPARTMENT HEAD

Western Kentucky University, Department of Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport (KRS), is seeking applicants for the position of Department Head. The Department Head of the KRS is a twelve-month, tenured administrative/teaching position. The department head provides leadership for a diverse department of 20 full-time faculty. The Department offers undergraduate and graduate programs in exercise science, physical education, recreation administration, and sport management. KRS is one of seven academic units in the College of Health and Human Services. CHHS is the largest college at Western Kentucky University with atotal enrollment of 4,646 students.

Required qualifications: To be considered the candidate must hold an earned doctorate in a discipline in Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport Administration, or a related area, and meet requirements for the rank of Associate or Full Professor. Undergraduate and graduate teaching experience is also required in a KRS discipline.

Strong leadership/management skills and previous administrative experience will enhance the candidate’s application, as well as the ability to work with a diverse population.

Responsibilities include: providing leadership for achieving departmental, college, and university goals, managing budget and human resources, developing departmental staffing plans, evaluating faculty and staff performance, interacting with internal and external constituents, teaching, conducting research and scholarly activities, providing university/community service, serving on the CHHS administrative team, recruitment activities, and development activities as appropriate. The ideal candidate should also be open to promoting alternative modes of instructional delivery that may include web-based courses, ITV, and offering courses at off-campus sites.

Salary is competitive andcommensurable with experience. Nominations and expressions of interest, which will include a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and names of five professional references with e- mail and telephone numbers included, should be sent electronically to the attention of KRS search at the following email address: chhs-searchcomm@wku.edu

Applications and letters of application will be reviewed starting January 15, 2012 and will remain open until filled.

WKU and Bowling Green, KY: Western Kentucky University (WKU) is a well-respected, comprehensive university committed to the promotion of stewardship and student engagement. Current enrollment is approximately 20,100 undergraduate and graduate students. WKU is located in Bowling Green, KY with a population of68,000 and is conveniently located 50 miles north of Nashville, TN, and approximately 100 miles South of Louisville, KY.

Offers ofemployment are contingent upon educational credential verification and satisfactory criminal background check.

Western Kentucky University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, or marital status in admission to career and technical education programs and/or activities, or employment practices in accordance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Revised 1992, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Persons with disabilities, who need reasonable accommodations to participate in the application and/or selection process, should notify The Office of Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/University ADA Services at (270) 745- 5121, a minimum of five working days in advance.

Faculty Opening at York College

Assistant/Associate Professor @ York College of Pennsylvania

The Department of Behavioral Sciences at York College of Pennsylvania invites applications for a full time tenure-track Assistant/Associate Professor to start in August 2012.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching core recreation courses such as an introduction to recreation and leisure and leadership and group dynamics in recreation as well as other courses in his/her specialty area. The course load may include classes from the Therapeutic Recreation and/or the Community Recreation emphasis areas. The candidate will also be responsible for the development and supervision of additional experiential learning and community service opportunities. Additional responsibilities include development of new courses, advising students, engaging in scholarly activity, and providing service to the department, the college, and the York community. An anticipated development of a new department of Hospitality, Recreation and Sport Management may create new teaching opportunities, so related expertise would also be welcome.

QUALIFICATIONS: A Ph.D. in recreation and leisure, therapeutic recreation, community recreation, commercial recreation, outdoor recreation, or other related field is preferred (ABDs may apply with evidence of degree award by August 2012). A record of excellence in teaching and advising, scholarly promise, and a strong commitment to service is expected.

The Recreation and Leisure Administration program is accredited by COAPRT and currently has over 100 majors. York College of Pennsylvania http://www.ycp.edu is a private-sector, independent institution of higher education offering over 50 baccalaureate majors in the arts and sciences and in professional fields as well as master’s programs in business, education, and nursing and a doctoral program in nursing. The College has an enrollment of 4700 full time and 700 part time undergraduate students and 325 graduate students from some 30 states and 15 foreign countries. The campus is located in South-Central Pennsylvania (50 miles north of Baltimore, MD, 30 miles south of Harrisburg, and 90 miles north of Washington D.C.) and offers competitive salaries and fringe benefits.

Interested candidates should electronically submit the following: a letter of application, a statement of teaching philosophy and research interests, curriculum vita, graduate transcripts, teaching evaluations, three letters of recommendation, and contact information for three references to employment@ycp.edu. Applications must be received no later than November 18, 2011.

York College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For a copy of York College’s Annual Security Report, you may contact the Office of Campus Safety or the Web at http://www.ycp.edu/offices-and-services/campus-safety/department-publications/annual-security-report/#d.en.4278

Assistant Professor at Brockport State

Assistant Professor @ State University of New York

My colleagues and I in the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies at The College at Brockport (State University of New York) are excited to announce our search for a tenure-track Assistant Professor. Candidates must have the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential or the ability to acquire certification within six months of hire. Other required and preferred qualifications, as well as a description of duties, are specified in the attached vacancy announcement.

To apply for the position, visit http://www.brockportrecruit.org

Best consideration date: November 1, 2011.

Dr. Holly Bosley Perry
Assistant Professor
Dept. of Recreation and Leisure Studies
The College at Brockport
350 New Campus Drive
Brockport, NY 14420
Phone: (585) 395-5478

Clinical Faculty Position Opening at FIU

Via the ATRAnet listserv comes this announcement from Dr. Alexis McKenney, CTRS:

The Department of Leadership and Professional Studies, College of Education at Florida International University (FIU) invites applications for a nine-month full-time, non-tenure-track clinical assistant professor faculty position in Recreational Therapy beginning August 2012.

Responsibilities: Teaching undergraduate and graduate courses and advising in the Recreational Therapy program; assisting with the coordination of the internship program, planning and supervising field experience placements; serving on departmental, college, and university committees, conducting scholarly presentations at professional conferences; assisting with RT program accreditation tasks.

For information, requirements, and to apply on-line, visit our website at http://www.fiujobs.org and reference Pos. 34949.
Please submit (attach) a letter of application that clearly establishes position qualifications, vitae, names and contact information for three professional references, three examples of recent publications, and a copy of graduate transcript(s).

Desired Qualifications Terminal degree with educational preparation and a minimum of three years of teaching in an institute of higher learning and/or equivalent professional experience in Recreational Therapy/Therapeutic Recreation is required. CTRS credential is required.

Review of completed applications will commence immediately. Position will remain open until filled.

FIU is a member of the State University System of Florida and is an Equal Opportunity, Equal Access Affirmative Action Employer. Minimum Qualifications Desired Qualifications Terminal degree with educational preparation and a minimum of three years of teaching in an institute of higher learning and/or equivalent professional experience in Recreational Therapy/Therapeutic Recreation is required. CTRS credential is required.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Contact information can be found below.

Dr. Alexis McKenney, CTRS
Florida International University
Interim Department Chair
Leadership and Professional Studies
Associate Professor
Recreational Therapy Program Coordinator Florida International University Modesto A. Maidique Campus, ZEB 313A Miami, FL 33199 http://www.fiu.edu/~rt http://www.IAmARecreationalTherapist.com
mckenney@fiu.edu
Phone: (305) 348-3905

Web-based Courses by UNC Greensboro

Via the ATRAnet Listserv comes this announcement from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro:

The Department of Community and Therapeutic Recreation is pleased to offer 2 web-based Spring 2012 courses in advanced geriatric practice:

RPM 631-Geriatric Assessment for Recreational Therapists, 3 credit hours (CRN 12381)
RPM 632-Evidence-based Practice in Geriatric Recreational Therapy, 3 credit hours (CRN 14530)

These courses, which are offered to ALL MAJORS, are a part of the online Geriatric Recreational Therapist certificate program, and give insight into older adults, the fastest growing segment of the US population. (Students are not required to enroll in the certficiate program.)

For more information, please contact the department at CTR@uncg.edu

********************
Amy Chandler
Administrative Assistant
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Department of Community and Therapeutic Recreation
420-J Health and Human Performance Building, PO Box 26170
Greensboro, NC 27412
Office (336) 334-5327

Position Opening in Bloomington, IN

From Susi Callahan Turner via the Recreation Therapists of Indiana:

I am the director of recreational therapy at Bell Trace Health & Living Center in Bloomington IN. We have a recreational therapy / activities director position that just opened at our facility. The position is approximately 32 hours per week - Tuesday through Saturday. All applicants must be a CTRS or be a certified activities director. If you are interested or have questions, please email me at scallahan@cardon.us. Thank you!! Susi Turner CTRS

Position Opening

From Rebecca Odom comes this announcement:

Hello, my name is Rebecca Odom and I am a CTRS and the Recreation Director at Newburgh Healthcare, a privately owned long-term care facility in Newburgh, IN(outside of Evansville).We currently have a position open for the Assistand Director to Activities.This is a full time job, Monday - Friday. At this time we are fortunate to have a weekend Activity Assistant, however some weekends may be required on occasion. As it stands right now, we rarely work weekends or holidays.
Applicants must be a Certified Activity Director or have a BA in Recreation Therapy.
Please send a resume to:

Rebecca Odom, Recreation Director
Newburgh Healthcare
10466 Pollack Ave
Newburgh, IN 47630
(812) 853-2931
email: rodom@newburghhealthcare.com

Recreational Therapy Social

Who: YOU & other CTRS’s you work with at your organization/facility.
You will be meeting a group of RT students who are in their Junior/Senior year(s) and curious about internships & employment.

What: Join fellow CTRS’s from the region, as well as future CTRS students from Indiana University, for a casual meet, greet and share!
Pizza and pop/soda/water will be provided.

When: Friday, December 9th, 2011 3:30pm-7pm
Come by, say ‘hi’, talk & go, or stay the whole time!

Where: Nick’s English Hut on Kirkwood
423 East Kirkwood Avenue Bloomington, IN 47408

Why: Experience and expertise can be shared to enhance the academic preparations of students in the Recreational Therapy field. Networking and collaborating with professionals in the field will help support them with the knowledge, confidence, ethics and standards from which they will base their professional work in the (near) future.

What to bring:
• • Information about your organization/facility
• • Experiences and “lessons learned” to share with students or other professionals
• • Questions for students or professionals
• • Opportunities for CTRS hours/volunteering/internship
• • Resources to share with students and professionals

*Please RSVP to Cara Gray, MS CTRS at
812-856-3683 or cngray@indiana.edu
by Monday, December 5th at 5pm.

Reminder: RTV Videos Available for Free

There are 23 RT videos available at no cost from the Indiana University Library. Titles of Recreation Therapy Videos are:

1. Adaptive equipment
2. Case studies
3. Clinical supervision
4. Computer use in therapeutic recreation
5. Documentation and behavioral observation
6. Effective listening
7. Feedback in learning and performance situations
8. History of therapeutic recreation parts I, II, III
9. Individual program planning
10. Interactions with people who have disabilities
11. Models of practice : health protection/health promotion model
12. Models of practice : leisure ability model
13. Nonverbal communication
14. Portraits of pioneers in therapeutic recreation
15. Professional ethics
16. Professionalism in therapeutic recreation
17. Quality of life
18. Safe transportation : safely transporting clients
19. Therapeutic communication
20. Therapeutic recreation history : the formative years
21. Therapeutic recreation history: the modern era
22. To serve a purpose
23. Transfer techniques

To access the free videos go to:
https://scholarworks.iu.edu/dspace/handle/2022/3378

GT on Hourse Floor recorded on YouTube.com

GT Thompson, 5th District Representative from Pennsylvania, congratulated Professor John Shank, Ph.D., CTRS, on the House floor on his retirement from Temple. The congratulations may be seen on YouTube.com

Both John and Temple have made positive impacts on RT over many years. It is good to see such an acknowledgement made from the House floor and recorded on YouTube.

Thanks for all you have done for our profession, John, and happy retirement!

Thanks Sagamore Publishing!

Sagamore Publishing had a booth at the Recreation Therapists of Indiana Conference last week where they featured my Lessons Learned book. Thanks Sagamore!

I Enjoyed the RTI Conference

The ole Hoosier RT (aka David Austin) had a great time today speaking at the Recreation Therapists of Indiana Conference held in Bloomington. Marieke Van Puymbroeck, RTI President, did a wonderful job of organizing and conducting RTI's 2011 annual conference. Vicki Scott, M.S. CTRS, ATRA President and fellow Hoosier, gave the other morning general session. Vicki sure is on top of the world of health care. Very impressive knowledge of the topic.

It was a treat for me to get to see many IU alums at the RTI Conference. Several did educational sessions, including Don Rogers, Ph.D., CTRS (from Indiana State University) and Bob Krider, M.S., CTRS (from Cincinnati).

It made me feel good to interact with so many rec therapy practitioners, students (from both IU and ISU), and faculty (again from both IU and ISU). We have a fine group of RTs here in Indiana. I'm glad to have had the opportunity to interact with them today.

Call for Speakers for 2012 "Conference at Sea"

Allyson Dedic, CTRS, has issued a call for speakers via the ATRAnet Listserv:

CALL FOR SPEAKERS for the June 16-23rd "Conference at Sea" leaving out of Miami, FL going to Cayman Islands, Bahamas, Isla Roatan, and Belize. Conference details will be posted soon, but we wanted to get a head start on our speakers! Please complete as soon as possible if you are interested!

** Discounted conference fees for all speakers! **
_______________________________________________
Allyson Dedic, CTRS
Director of Therapeutic Recreation
Whitehall Boca Raton
7300 Del Prado Circle South
Boca Raton, FL 33433
(561) 237-3818 direct
adedic@WHITEHALLBOCA.COM

(A speakers form was provided with Allyson's message, which I haven't included. But I'm pretty sure she'll be glad to send you one if you contact her.)

334 Now on ATRAnet Listserv

Having just posted on the ATRAnet listserv, I discovered there are now 334 individuals on ATRAnet. This is a nice jump in the numbers.

It seems to me that I recall Tim Passmore recently encourged RTs to join ATRAnet. It must have had some effect. Good going Tim!

Aerobic Exercise Good for Asthma Patients

According to an article in MedPage Today, physical training programs involving aerobic exercise have a range of benefits for patients with asthma. The article suggests staff should encourage patients with stable asthma to participate in regular physical activity.

World Diabetes Day.

Today is World Diabetes Day.

Tri-State RT Conference in Huntington, WV

From Danny Pettry, MS, CTRS, via the ATRAnet Listserv:

You’re invited to attend a one day Rec. Therapy Conference in Huntington, West Virginia at River Park Hospital on January 27, 2012.

This conference is being provided for the Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia Tri-State area. Anyone can attend.

Five (5) clock hours of continuing education.
Cost is only $25. Lunch included.

Go here for more information and registration:
http://dannypettry.blogspot.com/2011/11/tri-state-rec-therapy-conference.html

Getrecreationaltherapyjobs.com

I learned today that I am one of 317 Facebook users that are receiving announcements from Getrecreationaltherapyjobs.com

While it doesn't appear to me that Getrecreationaltherapyjobs.com lists many RT positions, it is one more way to know what is out there in terms of jobs. At least 317 Facebook users think it is useful to get announcements from Getrecreationaltherapyjobs.com

Promised Lessons Learned Review

Weeks ago I promised to share information from the positive reviews of my new book titled Lessons Learned: An Open Letter to Recreational Therapy Students and Practitioners. One review appeared in the American Journal of Recreation Therapy. The other was written by Dr. Terry Long and appeared in Therapeutic Recreation Journal (TRJ).

The quote below is from Terry Long’s review of Lessons Learned that was in TRJ:

“Current practitioners (including educators) can benefit from reviewing this text as it is a quick reminder of many important elements of recreational therapy. The book is certainly useful as a tool for facilitating clinical supervision, professional issues discussions, and a review of the presented lessons definitely suggests possible topics for future continuing education opportunities. Finally, there are personal applications of the lessons as well. For example, lessons regarding values, self-awareness, burnout, and active listening skills, and aggression can have both personal and professional relevance to readers.”

Lessons Learned was published by Sagamore Publishing in 2011 and may be obtained by going to the Sagamore Publishing website. Lessons Learned is also available as an e-book from Amazon.com

ATRA Newsletter Items Due Tomorrow

ATRA Newsletter Items Due November 15th

This announcement from Jean Folkerth via the ATRAnet Listserv:

Just wanted to remind everyone that articles for the ATRA Winter 2011 Newsletter are due on November 15. If you have problems with this date, please contact me directly at jfolkerth@hotmail.com

Jean Folkerth, Re.D., CTRS
ATRA Newsletter Editor

CTRA Call for Presentations

Jerome F. Singleton,PhD,CTRS,has put out a reminder that the Canadian Therapeutic Recreation Association (CTRA) has issued a call for presentations. I'm sure Jerry would welcome inquiries about making a presentation. His contact information is below.

The theme of the Securing CTRA 16th Annual Conference is "Our Future in Health and Wellness." The conference will be June 13-15, 2012 in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Canadian RTs are a great group of people and Halifax is a wonderful city. So I would urge American RTs to attend and to make presentations.

Jerome F. Singleton,PhD,CTRS
Doctorate Certificate on Aging (University of Maryland) Fellow, World Demographic Association Therapeutic Recreation Professional of the Year 2007 CTRA Dr. Gonzaga Da Gama Memorial Award 2011 CTRA Distinguished Alumni Recreation and Leisure Studies University of Waterloo 2008 Professor Leisure Studies School of Health and Human Performance Cross-appointed to School of Nursing Sociology and Anthropology
1459 Oxford Street
Dalhousie University
Halifax, Nova Scotia
B3H4R2
Jerome@dal.ca
902-494-1166

National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month

November is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month & National Family Caregivers Month

It is Veterans Day

The RT Blog says thanks to those in uniform!

American Diabetes Month

November is American Diabetes Month.

Book by Witman & Ligon

Reflection Recognition Reaffirmation: An Engaging Frame of Reference for Leisure Education, 2nd Edition
By Jeff Witman and Mary Ligon
Published by Idyll Arbor
Publication date: 2011
ISBN: 9781882883738

Reflection Recognition Reaffirmation: An Engaging Frame of Reference for Leisure Education (2nd Edition) is a practical handbook for implementing leisure education programs with a variety of populations in varied settings. Each chapter provides numerous clearly defined activities that can be easily incorporated into programming.

The notion of a sequential approach (Reflection Recognition Reaffirmation) represents a process in which program participants move from contemplation to action in creating more positive lifestyles. First, participants are engaged in experiences that encourage them to consider leisure as something with unique meanings to them (Reflection). Next, they’re involved in activities that allow for some clarification of the role of leisure in their lives (Recognition). Finally, participants are asked to consider where they want to go with what they’ve learned about themselves (Reaffirmation).

Benedict College Faculty Opening

The School of Education at Benedict College seeks faculty in Recreation and Leisure Services. The Department is interested in candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic program through their teaching, research, and service. We currently have 179 Recreation and Leisure Services majors. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include college retirement, medical and life insurance plans. Applicants must be available to begin spring semester, January 3, 2012.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
* Full time tenure track position to teach core courses in the area of Recreation and Leisure Services;
* Provide academic advising to undergraduate students in Recreation and Leisure Services;
* Maintain a program of research and scholarship; and
* Engage in service activities.

ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate will possess the following qualifications:
* Doctoral Degree (Masters Degree considered) with at least one graduate degree in Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services;
* Demonstrated excellence in teaching;
* Evidence of ability to develop an active research program, which may include a record of publications, professional presentations and grant writing;
* Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with students, recreation managers, and the general public;
* Demonstrated knowledge of NRPA accreditation requirements; and
* Active participation in professional organizations.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

A complete application will include the following: Cover letter, curriculum vitae, three letters of reference, 0fficial transcripts of earned degrees, and a completed Benedict College application which can be downloaded from Benedict College website.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Dr. Allen Coles, Dean
School of Education
Bacoats Hall 204
1600 Harden Street
Benedict College, Columbia, SC 29204
colesa@benedict.edu
(803) 705-4945

Dean, School of Health Sciences & Human Performance

Ithaca College seeks applications and nominations for the position of Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Human Performance (HSHP). This is a compelling opportunity for an experienced and innovative leader. Located in Ithaca, New York, Ithaca College is a private, comprehensive, residential college with an enrollment of 6,400 undergraduate and 400 graduate students, a faculty of 461 full-time and 241 part-time, and a staff of nearly 1,000. More specifically, HSHP currently enrolls over 1,300 full-time students in 18 undergraduate degree programs and nine graduate programs, including a clinical doctorate in physical therapy.

Learn more about the nomination and application process by visiting:

http://www.ithaca.edu/hr/hrfiles/pdf/hshp_dean_search_prospectus.pdf

--
Margaret L. Arnold, Ph.D.
Interim Associate Dean
School of Health Sciences and Human Performance Smiddy Hall 318 Ithaca College Ithaca, New York 14850
Tele: 607.274.1736

Full-time Tenure Track Faculty Position

Institution: St. Joseph’s College, Patchogue, LI., NY CampusDepartment: Recreation and Leisure Studies

Application due: Open until filled- Review of applications will begin February 1, 2012

The Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies at St. Joseph’s College invites applications for a Tenure Track position in Therapeutic Recreation and Leisure Services Management beginning August 2012. The Department is interested in candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic program through their teaching, research, and service. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include college retirement, medical and life insurance plans.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
*Full time tenure track position to teach courses in the area of Therapeutic Recreation and Leisure Services Management;
*Provide academic advising to undergraduate students in Recreation and Leisure Studies
*Assist in the coordination and build upon the current internship program
*Moderate the Recreation Club
*Participate in department and campus-wide service activities

ACADMENIC AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
*Doctoral degree (ABD & Masters considered) with at least one graduate degree in Recreation and Leisure Studies
*Must possess current CTRS certification and be eligible for renewal
*Demonstrated excellence in teaching
*Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively with students, faculty, staff, and professional practitioners
*Demonstrated knowledge of COAPRT-NRPA accreditation requirements; and
*Active participation in professional societies

APPLICATION INFORMATION
A complete application will include the following: Cover Letter, Resume/Curriculum Vitae, Three letters of reference, Official transcripts of earned degrees, and a completed St. Joseph’s College application, which can be downloaded from St. Joseph’s College website.

Contact & ApplicationInformation: KarenCahill

St. Joseph’s College

155 W. Roe Blvd.

Patchogue, NY 11772

kcahill@sjcny.edu

RT Student Opportunity in Costa Rica

From Dr. Dan Ferguson, CTRS, via the ATRAnet Listserv:

I wanted to let you know that again this year I will be taking a group of students to Costa Rica for a study abroad experience. The program dates are May 13 to May 31 (19 days). We will be in a small mountain town where we will spend our weekdays working in a Casa de Ancianos (assisted living center) and at the Center for Persons with Disabilities with mostly intellectually impaired adults but some with physical disabilities as well.

At both of these facilities we provide a variety of recreation programs. Neither facility has a recreation or activity program. So for two weeks we are the program. Students will have plenty of opportunity to test their skills in a way that is very safe and enjoyable. Students do not have to speak Spanish, but of course any language ability at all it will be extremely useful.

We will live with Costa Rican families and learn a lot about the culture of Costa Rica. On weekends we travel to great places like Manuel Antonio National Park where we take a rain forest hike to see monkeys, sloths, snakes, lizards and other amazing critters before making our way to a great beach for the rest of the day. We visit a cloud forest where we take a night hike to see nocturnal creatures and take a canopy tour that includes a half mile long zip line and other adventures.

All majors are invited to participate in this trip but most students are majors in therapeutic recreation, rec. administration, phys ed. or Spanish minor but I have also taken students in special ed, gerontology, social work, psychology, nursing, international studies and business, and even broadcasting. I have had Freshman through Graduate Students. If you have a student or two who might be interested in this amazing experience, please pass this information to them and they can contact me for more specific information at ferguson@pittstate.edu

Dr. Dan Ferguson, CTRS
Dept of Health, Human Performance and Recreation
Pittsburg State University

Faculty Position in Rehabilitation Sciences at Temple

From Catherine Coyle, Ph.D, CTRS, via the ATRAnet Listserv:

Tenure-Track Faculty Position in Rehabilitation Sciences at Temple University

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences in the College of Health Professions and Social Work at Temple University in the vibrant city of Philadelphia invites applicants for a full-time (9-month) tenure-track faculty position at the assistant or associate professor rank. This groundbreaking Department is uniquely focused on conducting cutting edge academic research and providing education that promotes occupation, community participation, and active living of individuals with disabilities or at-risk for long-term disabilities.

The ideal candidate for this position is an experienced investigator with a defined program of research that contributes to the knowledge base in the promotion of occupation, health, leisure, and community participation of individuals with disabilities or at-risk for long-term disabilities. Populations of interest include children, adolescents, and older adults with physical, sensory, psychiatric and/or developmental disabilities. We are specifically seeking individuals with expertise in the following areas or populations: 1) The influence of occupation, leisure engagement, or participation on neurocognitive functioning and health in persons with disabilities; 2) Aging with a disability; 3) Transitions to adulthood among persons with disabilities; 4) health promotion and the prevention of secondary health conditions among persons with disabilities, including obesity, through recreational or occupational therapy approaches; 5) influence of environment on occupation, leisure activity, or participation; and 6) development of evidence-based occupational and/or leisure interventions.

In addition to establishing a fundable program of research, the successful candidate will advise graduate students at both the master and doctoral level, and contribute to innovative curricular advances and teaching excellence at all degree levels. This first of its kind interdisciplinary Department includes nationally recognized programs in occupational therapy (M.O.T. and D.O.T. degrees) and therapeutic recreation (B.S. and M.S.). The Department also has a new health ecology Ph.D. program. Successful candidates can be in occupational or recreation therapy, as well as other relevant disciplines, including psychology, sociology, rehabilitation, social work, public health, special education, disability studies, and nursing. Preference will be given to candidates with backgrounds in the respective academic units within the Department.

Rank, salary, and tenure status will be commensurate with experience and credentials. The search committee will review applications in strict confidence beginning immediately, and will continue to do so until the position is filled. Candidates should forward a cover letter, CV, sample publications, and personal statements summarizing: 1) two-page research background and interests that explicitly states which population they work with and the specific area of expertise they believe their work falls into out of the six that are listed in this announcement, and 2) teaching philosophy and interests, electronically to mark.salzer@temple.edu.

Temple University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer dedicated to excellence through diversity.

Catherine Coyle, Ph.D, CTRS
Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences
College of Health Professions & Social Work
1700 N. Broad St., Suite 304
Philadelphia, PA 19122
215.204.6731 (office)
215.204.1386 (fax)

ATRA Newsletter Items Due November 15th

This announcement from Jean Folkerth via the ATRAnet Listserv:

Just wanted to remind everyone that articles for the ATRA Winter 2011 Newsletter are due on November 15. If you have problems with this date, please contact me directly at jfolkerth@hotmail.com

Jean Folkerth, Re.D., CTRS
ATRA Newsletter Editor

2012 Conference at Sea

I understand that Allyson Dedic, CTRS,Director of Therapeutic Recreation,Whitehall Boca Raton, is planning a "Conference at Sea" for 2012. I'll plan to post information as it comes available.

RT Position in Indy

"Get Recreational Therapy Jobs" has listed an RT position with Kindred Healthcare Inc. in Indianapolis at Trans Care & Rehab in Castelton.

I just saw the position listed by "Get Recreational Therapy Jobs" so I have no first-hand information on the position.

National Epilepsy Awareness Month

This is National Epilepsy Awareness Month.

RT Solutions, Inc. is seeking CTRS's

From Heather Sedletzeck:
Job title: Home Based Recreational Therapist (CTRS)
Part time - (1) Serving Vigo, Clay, Parke and Vermillion Counties & (2) Serving Hamilton and Northern Marion Counties
Salary: commensurate upon experience (range $18-$22 hour to start)
Facility: RT Solutions, Inc. – Home and community based services (location – throughout the state of Indiana)
Qualifications: All applicants must possess CTRS credential from the National Council on Therapeutic Recreation Certification. Experience is preferred but not required. Also must possess a valid driver’s license with reliable transportation, auto insurance and professional liability insurance.
Population: We serve clients throughout the lifespan who have an identified developmental disability.
Starting Date: negotiable
Description of position: We have been providing Recreational Therapy services since 2003 throughout the state of Indiana. RT Solutions, Inc. is seeking self-directed, organized individuals who have a passion for what they do and desire to make a difference in others lives! These positions offer flexible schedules and the opportunity to utilize your skills by providing one to one treatment that is truly person centered! Therapists must be able to effectively communicate with other professionals on the Interdisciplinary team as well as the client and their families. They must be able to complete assessments, program plan, document and evaluate treatment in narrative form, attend client meetings (quarterly and annually) and attend company meetings. RT Solutions, Inc. offers competitive wages & continuing education stipend. We market to individuals in the target geographic area, complete intake information for referrals and build caseloads for our therapists. All billing is completed in the main office which allows our therapists to focus on providing the highest quality of treatments possible!

Contact: E-mail your resume and references to Heather Sedletzeck at heatherctrs@bizma.rr.com, Attention: Recreational Therapy Position

RT Director Opening in Rockville, Maryland

From "GetRecreationalTherapyJobs.com" comes this announcement:
Recreational Therapy Director and Resident Activities
Location: Rockville, MD

Charles E. Smith Life Community, a premier provider of comprehensive geriatric care services, is seeking an experienced and dynamic professional to lead a comprehensive Recreation Therapy & Activity department. Responsibilities include planning, organizing, developing and directing recreation therapy and activity operations for CESLC's residential services - the Hebrew Home, a multi-building long term care facility, Ring House an independent living Retirement Community, and Landow House, an assisted living community. The Hebrew Home offers an attractive compensation and benefit package in a work environment that values teamwork and professional development.

For immediate consideration, please forward resume and cover letter with salary expectations:Hebrew Home of Greater WashingtonChris Stamps, Human Resources6121 Montrose RoadRockville, MD 20852Fax (301) 770-8511stamps@hebrew-home.orgwww.smithlifecommunities.org

Successful candidates will have 5 year's progressive experience, including supervisory and department management, as well as experience working with residents with dementia. A Bachelors Degree in therapy or related field and a CTRS is required.

More Research Supports Yoga for Back Problems

Yesterday I reported on U.S. research on how yoga helped participants with chronic back pain. A second study by British researchers also has found positive benefits for yoga partcipants with back pain. The study appeared in the November 1 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Oregon State Hospital Forum May 11, 2012

Oregon State Hospital's ANNUAL SPRING TR FORUM will be held May 11, 2012, from 8:00AM TO 5:00PM in the State Employment Building Auditorium, Salem, Oregon.

PLEASE CONTACT WITH QUESTIONS & INTEREST IN PRESENTING:
Shannon Wesson, CTRS (503) 945-9974
Shannon.WESSON@dhs.oregon.gov

RT Mentioned in Article on Best Jobs

In an eHow article by Joseph Walker titled "The Best Jobs for a Bachelor's Degree," recreational therapy is mentioned. The article cites Bureau of Labor Statistics data that indicates a 15% job growth rate for recreational therapists. It lists a salary of $41,270.00 for RTs, stating the salary is lower than for some other health care workers "but the job is ideal for someone who enjoys staying active and engaging patients with therapeutic play."

Research on Yoga for Chronic Back Pain

MedPage Today published an article titled "Yoga Bests Usual Care for Back Function." In the article it is reported that researchers yoga had "proven superior to routine care for improving function in patients with chronic low back pain..."

The study was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, in 2011,Vol. 15, pages 569-578 under the title "Yoga for chronic low back pain."

ADA Standards Published

The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design are out at http://t.co/77YdpPCO

RT Opening in North Carolina

From Anja Chillemi posted in North Carolina Recreational Therapy Association:

*Job Opportunity*
Life Enrichment Leader (RT) position in the Skilled Nursing Facility at Summit Hills Retirement Community. The LEL position requires creating monthly calendars, planning and implementing activities, and completing the MDS assessments. If interested please email or call Tricia Fisher at pfisher@summit-hills.com or 864-978-9792. Look us up on the web at www.summit-hills.com

Summit Hills | Independent Living Senior Retirement in Spartanburg, South Carolina
www.summit-hills.com