Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto recently announced that the Town will host an Autism Walk to benefit the Fay J. Lindner Center for Autism. The event will be held on Sunday, September 7 at John J. Burns Town Park, Merrick Road in Massapequa. Check-in begins at 8:00 a.m. and the walk will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by a tailgate party.

"Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. Today, one in 150 individuals is diagnosed with autism, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined," Supervisor Venditto said. "There is no known cause or cure for autism. Many treatments and therapies have surfaced since the disorder has grown more visible in the mainstream press, but reputable doctors have yet to agree on any that will reverse the diagnosis. The answer lies in additional research."

To help spread the word about autism and help those inflicted with the condition, the Town of Oyster Bay is hosting its first "Walk for Autism" on September 7 to benefit the Fay J. Lindner Center for Autism, located in Bethpage, a dedicated satellite facility to North Shore LIJ-Hospital devoted to helping families obtain comprehensive assessments, family support and information on the latest research.

"The event will be held rain or shine," Supervisor Venditto said. "Registration is $10 for individual walkers or $25 for a family (three or more walkers). Each registered walker will receive a T-shirt and admission to the tailgate party."

To sign up for the walk, download a registration flier from the Town's Web site at www.oysterbaytown.com, or call the Town of Oyster Bay's Parks Department Recreation Office at 797-4126 to receive one by mail. Registration can also be done in person at the Town of Oyster Bay Parks Department, Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road in Massapequa.

"I hope our residents will join us to take part in this charitable cause," Supervisor Venditto stated. "This event promises to be a day filled with fun for participants, but more importantly a day to help spread awareness and assist in the fight against autism."