International recording star Justin Hines and Boston College and Baltimore Colts great Dan Sullivan joined WBZ Radio NightSide Host Dan Rea for the second annual "All Aboard The Arc" fundraising and awareness rally yesterday, Sunday, April 29 at John Hancock Hall in Boston. Comcast Business Class was the statewide sponsor of the event. Nearly 1,000 joined the event thru a caravan of busses from across the state via nine send-off sites: Greenfield, Hyannis, Haverhill, Southbridge, Brockton, Fitchburg, Taunton, Westwood and Waltham.  Still time to donate-- you can do that here.
Click here to view pictures from the events.

As reported earlier, the House Ways and Means budget was positive for our constituents. However there are two high priority amendments that will be taken up in House debate begining on April 23rd: Human Services Salary Reserve of $28 Million and Turning 22 for $8 Million.  To read more and this week's notes from The Arc go here.  Our budget page is here. 

Chair Brian Dempsey and the House Ways/Means Committee showed their strong support for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities with the release of their budget blueprint.  $10 Million more in the Family Support compared to the Gov's budget.  $1 Million more for Turning 22.  Best budget plan in 31/2 years.Go here to see the 2013 page.  Photo: Chair Dempsey flanked by Committee members.

To read today's Notes from The Arc, please go here.   A busy day today with Sen. Fred Berry receiving what will be the future Sen. Fred Berry award from the Mass. Early Intervention Consortium(MEIC).  AFAM held "Autism Awareness Day".  Gov. Patrick present at AFAM's event to receive award.