Category Archives: Uncategorized

Celebrate the Christmas Season with Gratitude

Christmas. Each of us has memories of Christmas that we hold special. As a youngster, I recall going to the Barber family home every Christmas afternoon; relatives everywhere, aroma of scrumptious food coming from the kitchen, and the much-anticipated visit … Continue reading

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“Let It Go” by Jeanne Downey

I asked Jeanne Downey, friend, colleague, parent, and ARC of PA President if she would be a guest blogger. I’ve known Jeanne since we were both young professionals beginning in our fields of human service. Since then, Mary and Ryan … Continue reading

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In Memory of Sandy Hook Elementary

On Dec. 14, 2012, tragedy struck Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT. Two years later, my thoughts and prayers go out to all the families and friends that were affected by this horrible event. For all the “Little Angels” … Continue reading

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2014 Holiday Showcase

What do Charlie Brown, some hard-working elves, and an adorable Bichon Frise have in common? All were featured in this year’s holiday program performed by students at the Elizabeth Lee Black School. This morning, students from 21 classrooms ranging from … Continue reading

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In Memory of Dr. Layden

I had the privilege of attending the funeral service for Paul W. Layden, Sr., M.D. this past Saturday. Dr. Layden was a volunteer at the Barber National Institute for 51 years. When Dr. Layden began, physicians were truly not interested … Continue reading

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International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Did you know that yesterday, December 3rd, was the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD)? 22 years ago, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution to observe this day as a means to promote the understanding of disability issues … Continue reading

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Ryan’s 21st Birthday!

Is it possible? Ryan is turning 21 today! This is one of those special days where I love to take a moment to reflect on my journey with Ryan. I enjoy looking at his pictures that remind me of some … Continue reading

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Shop with Compassion This Holiday

Yes, Black Friday is only 3 days away. I’m sure that many of you are checking the stores now to see what items will be on sale and what time the stores open. Wouldn’t it be great to avoid the … Continue reading

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Vatican To Hold Premiere Autism Conference This Week

The Vatican’s first ever conference on autism, “The Person with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Animating Hope,” is being held this week. Pope Francis has established the conference in the hopes of ending the stigma of autism and the isolation of those … Continue reading

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Operation Warm Coat Came to Erie

Brrr … it’s 14 degrees in Erie with a -2 wind chill. Three feet of snow is predicted, but the storm has stayed over the lake.  Thanks to the generosity of PNC Grow Up Great, sixty BNI preschoolers have winter … Continue reading

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