Hudes Marks Autism Awareness Day in Levittown

Hempstead Town Councilman Gary Hudes showed his support for World Autism Awareness during visits to Levittown’s MacArthur High School on April 2 and the ELIJA School on April 3, as the schools focused on educating the public about autism.  

“With a growing number of children now being affected by autism, it is important that we continue to educate people,” said Hudes. “I would like to thank MacArthur High School and the ELIJA School for helping to bring awareness to this important issue.”  

Students were actively involved in spreading the message – selling t-shirts, creating showcases and decorating the schools’ hallways.  

According to Autism Speaks – an organization helping to educate people worldwide – autism is a fast-growing developmental disability in the United States, now affecting 1 in 88 children.   

"Together, we can help increase autism awareness," Hudes concluded. 

Photo Caption 1:  Hempstead Town Councilman Gary Hudes (third right) presented an official town Certificate of Recognition to MacArthur High School in Levittown on April 2, 2013 for the school’s work on World Autism Awareness Day. Councilman Hudes was joined by Principal Kathleen Valentino; Dean of Students Vinny Causeman; and students Theresa Damato, Pat Newins, Ryan O’Connor, Kyle Brophy, Justin Perez, Heather VanPatten and Luke McGuire.

Photo Caption 2: Gary Hudes (second right) presented an official town Certificate of Recognition to the ELIJA School in Levittown on April 3, 2013 for the school’s work on World Autism Day. Councilman Hudes was joined by Debora Thivierge, Executive Director of the ELIJA School; students Anthony, Dustin and Yitzy; and Jay McInerney, Honorary Board Member of the ELIJA School.