On June 15, South Miami/Coral Gables Lodge held the second of four quarterly events for autism awareness. This event is funded by an Elks National Foundation Impact Grant. The event was a bingo game, hosted by the lodge in association with the University of Miami and the Nova Southeastern University CARD program (Center for Autism & Related Disabilities). The 85 attendees enjoyed two hours of bingo. Member Marty Furgang called the games and was assisted by volunteer Mike Chavez. Approximately 13 members volunteered to help at the event. Barry Wake, PDD, Esquire, arranged for his daughter, Nikki, a Miami-Dade police officer, to deliver the police autism awareness vehicle, which was displayed at the lodge entrance. After the game, everyone received complimentary pizza and soft drinks and was invited to the lounge for the third TOTS night (Talent of the Spectrum). As part of the Impact Grant, every third Saturday, the lodge holds an open mic talent show for CARD members, family members, caregivers and Elks. It gives CARD clients an opportunity to showcase their talents and to interact with Elks members. This also gives Elks a better understanding of autism and helps CARD members socialize.

Pictured are Marty Furgang and the Miami-Dade autism awareness police car.