You can "Act Early" to help if a baby you know may be having problems with delayed development.

We meet from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every month during the school year beginning in September for the "lunch bunch." This is an informal brown bag luncheon to network and share.

Autism Awareness Ribbon magnets are available locally for $5. Proceeds will benefit the work of the Shenandoah Valley Autism Partnership. We will be selling the magnets at our meetings. Sally Chappel (JMU T/TAC) and the staff at The Arc of Harrisonburg and Rockingham have agreed to keep a supply on hand if you are not able to attend our meetings. Please contact Sally at 540-568-8095 or chappesl@jmu.edu or The Arc at 540-437-9214 or arc@hrarc.org to arrange for pickup.

The puzzle pattern of this ribbon reflects the mystery and complexity of autism. The different colors and shapes represent the diversity of the people and families living with this disorder. The brightness of the ribbon signals hope -- hope through research and increasing awareness in people like you.

Parents: consider listing your son or daughter with the Virginia Autism Registry. Here are the details.

Autism E-News is a quarterly electronic newsletter focusing on educational topics for students with autism. It also includes announcements on local workshops and conferences about autism. Click here to subscribe to Autism E-News or you may also check out past issues.