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First Annual ‘Oscars for Autism’ raised over $50,000

FREDERICTON– Last weekend, on Saturday November 14th 2009, Autism
Connections Fredericton and TD Waterhouse, Private Investment Advice presented
the first annual ‘Oscars for autism’ fundraising event at the Delta in Fredericton. The
‘Oscars for Autism’ gala and award ceremony raised over $50,000
Attendees enjoyed a champagne reception, dinner, and bid on several silent and live
auction items.
‘I can’t thank enough the Fredericton community for having contributed to the success
of this event. We had an amazing turnout. It was by far the most successful event to
date’, said Kim Gahan, Autism Connections Fredericton Director.
Over 400 people attended the event, including  Keith Ashfield,MP, Hon. Rick Miles,
MLA. The ‘Oscars for Autism’ recognized business individuals, artists, athletes, and
politicians in New Brunswick.  Award recipients included  Premier Shawn Graham,
former Premier Bernard Lord,  Dr. John Richardson, Fredericton Junction Community,
Steve Murphy (CTV News), Bernard Richard (Ombudsmen,Child & Youth Advocate),
Reid Manore (franchisee - Tim Horton's), Mayor Brad Woodside, Dr. H.E.A.(Eddy)
Campbell (President & Vice-Chancellor, UNB), Cathy Hutch (music solo and parent of
autistic child), The LaPointes (music group), Marc Roberts ( East Coast Music Show),
Sheree Fitch (Author), Harold Doherty, (autism parent advocate), and Dr. Paul
McDonnell,Professor Emeritus. Keynote Speaker was Dr. Tara Kennedy,
Development al Paediatrician. The evening was emceed by radio personality Trevor
Doyle.
The awards were developed by Autism Connections Fredericton to recognize great
individuals who have made impressive contribution in our city, our province, and our
country. It was a great opportunity to recognize the outstanding  achievements we
have seen in New Brunswick in the programs and services offered  to families
affected by autism.
“In New Brunswick, over the past 5 years we have achieved a provincial treatment
program that is second to none in Canada. We felt it was necessary to recognize the
achievements made in our province. Thanks to the parents, and thanks to the strong
leadership of our former Premier Bernard Lord and current Premier Shawn Graham,
Families affected by autism in New Brunswick have access to high quality services
they would not get anywhere else.”, said Dr. Paul M. McDonnell Ph.D. Psychologist
and Professor Emeritus (UNB)
“This was the first inaugural year for the awards.  We’ve been really impressed to
witness the strong support of the Fredericton community in this initiative. We felt it was
important for us to recognize all the individuals in New Brunswick who made a strong
contribution to our province,  we also wanted to thank the ones that made the lives of
families affected by autism a little bit easier”, said Brian Jones, Chair of the event.
All proceeds from the event were donated to Autism Connections Fredericton, a not-
for-profit organization offering support and services for families affected by autism in
Fredericton.
“We certainly hope to host this event again next year. We would like to thank all the
volunteers, businesses, and everyone that contributed to this event.   We certainly do
have a wonderful community and we would like to thank our government and the
beautiful city of Fredericton for the services they provide for families living with
autism”, said Neil LaCroix, Autism Connections Fredericton, Chairperson.
Information on the Oscars and the award winners can be found at www.
oscarsforautism.com.
MEDIA CONTACT: Brian Jones, Chair of event, T 506.450.1123, Fax 506.450.1155
Brian.jones@td.com.