The University of Central Florida's CARD Center assists thousands of families affected by autism. In 1998 the center assisted 230 families, and assisted the families with finding speech and behavioral therapists. Now there are roughly 4,700 families that rely on the center for assistance. Unfortunately the Florida Legislature cut the budget this by 10%.

Recently making national news, Celexa has been proven to be ineffective at treating symptoms of autism such as repetitive behaviors such as spinning, head banging, and twirling. In many instances those taking Celexa were twice as likely to develop repetitive behaviors than those on a placebo. Many also suffered side effects such as nightmares.

The locking mechanism that allows neurons to form synapses was recently discovered by researchers giving them further insight into the passing of information in the brain.

Making the front page CNN.com this morning is the report that is naming the shortcomings in the public schools system with regard to the handling of special education students. Featured in this CNN video host Roland Martin speaks to Barbara Trader, Executive Director of TASH speaks about the report, the school system, and the congressional hearings that will be taking place because of it.

10-20%. That's the number that psychology professor Deborah Fein of the University of Connecticut believes can recover from autism. In research she presented at an autism conference in Chicago last week, she outlined the cases of 20 children on the spectrum that no longer met the autism criteria. The study is also going as far as comparing brain imaging scans in formerly autistic children to analyze if their normal behavior is a result of normal brain activity.

Many have been relieved to see that Autism is getting some attention in the new Presidential Administration this year. What many hope to see implemented soon universal screenings for infants and rescreening children at 2 years of age.