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WHEREAS, nearly 1.5 million Americans live with an autism spectrum disorder, and autism occurs in 1 in 88 births today; and
WHEREAS, children who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at a young age and receive effective early intervention can see significant improvement throughout their lifetimes; and
WHEREAS, the Joey Travolta Film Camp invites adolescents and young adults with autism to join with their peers and gain valuable social, functional, and vocational skills; and
WHEREAS, campers work with industry professionals to study the art of filmmaking, learning together as a team as they create a short film; and
WHEREAS, on January 19 at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater, the camp will host "An Evening of Arts for Autism," featuring dance, illusion, and film, and showcasing many of Pittsburgh's most talented performance artists; and
WHEREAS, the evening, which raises money for the Joey Travolta Scholarship Fund, will also include the world premiere of campers' films.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize Joey Travolta Film Camp for raising awareness of autism spectrum disorder and providing valuable skill-building opportunities to Pittsburgh's youth; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare January 19, 2013 to be "Joey Travolta Film Camp Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.