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Here is the latest information on how to support The Voyage for Autism Awareness and the Philadelphia Fire Department's Autism Fire Safety Campaign:

DC - Baltimore - Philly – NYC

April 16-30, 2011

Philadelphia Fire Captain Neil Calore will row/sail his 17’ home-built wooden dory 425+ miles to raise awareness for Autism, stopping at Fire Boat Stations in Washington DC, Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York. NBC News is covering the event in all four cities.

Donations go directly to Autism Speaks, the nation’s largest science and advocacy group, and can be made through the following web link:

http://events.autismspeaks.org/tu/voyage   

Support Boat Operations: Lt. Bill Drennen / 215-370-6579 / wfd27@comcast.net

                         Logistics: FF. Bill Mattox / 215-435-1311 / wmattox710@gmail.com

In conjunction, the Philadelphia Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Division will release a Regional Autism Fire Safety Campaign which will address issues concerning Autism and how families affected can effectively prepare Fire Escape Plans, and prepare for the arrival of First Responders in emergency situations. Contact PIO Lt. Mike Grant 215-686-1382 for more information.

Help fund the Regional Autism Fire Safety Campaign and The Voyage for Autism Awareness through The Fireman’s Hall Museum, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

The Fireman’s Hall Museum Store donation link: http://www.firemanshallstore.com/

Or mail checks to:The Philadelphia Fire Department 

                               Historical Corporation

                               147 N. 2^nd St.

                               Philadelphia, PA 19106-2010

                               Attn: Autism Campaign

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LESS THAN 3 WEEKS TO GO!!!

'SPRAY' got wet today for the first time since last December and underwent a rigorous shake-down. It was cold, wet and blustery, but she passed with flying colors. 

Unfortunately, I did not have my camera with me. So the only picture I got was this one, taken with my cheap cell phone . . .

More from those we are trying to help . . .

I read the article about your voyage for Autism Awareness.... Thank you so much. I get teary eyed just thinking about your effort. My son has Asperger's Syndrome. I noticed something was different at the age of 2.. He wasnt talking... His dr told me I was overreacting... After much pushing, he was tested... Early Intervention has helped so much.

                        ~Mary Ann Rota

My son, his brother, and his mom and dad thank you so much for giving a voice to so many. when the days get tough seeing someone like you drys some of the tears and even brings a smile thank you!

                             ~Jody Brown

Firefighting runs in our family, and our little guy's daddy is a firefighter. Can you please give us more ideas on how to organize the safety campaign specifically for those with autism and special needs, or is there one in place we can find? Does IAFF (International Association of Fire Fighters) Union know about this safety campaign?

                           ~Rachell Reilly
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Thank you from a mother of 2 on the spectrum: a 19-year-old son and a 7-year-old daughter. Its people like you who make all the difference in the world!

                           ~Carrie Thompson Porder
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Thank you soo much God Speed and God bless!! My 5 yr old son was diagnosed Autism just yesterday!!!!!!

                           ~Yvette Pavia Pavlock 
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