A unique friendship that began in Plainview's JKF High School in 1980 has produced one of the most innovative, research-based medical treatment programs for children with learning disabilities, ADHD and Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

The SIRRI Center on South Oyster Bay Road is dedicated to the evaluation and treatment of people, age 2 and up with developmental disorders such as ADD, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder and Autism, in addition to traditional Internal Medicine for adults.

When Michael Gruttadauria was a sophomore and Reinaldo Gutierrez a freshman, they became friends while playing lacrosse for JFK High School. Both pursued medical careers and eventually came back to reside in POB. Their friendship was renewed in 2000 when Michael became the manager of Jonathan's, Reinaldos' son, Plainview Little League T-ball Team, the Mets.

Now with seven children between them (Michael's wife Michelle will be delivering their fourth soon), the two old friends have developed a professional alliance based on a mutual interest in the treatment of children with developmental disorders.

The community is invited to attend a Grand Opening Celebration with the doctors on Saturday, Oct. 28 from noon - 3 p.m. at The SIRRI Center, 380 South Oyster Bay Road, Hicksville, NY 11801 directly across from the Plainview Shopping Center.