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www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Thursday, April 17, 2014 | 4 Project Autism hosts second annual variety show by Nathan Howes Special to the Beaver Karishma Singh, left, entertains guests at the second annual Autism Awareness Variety Show at OE Banquet & Conference Centre. At centre, Stephanie Beatson, who is known as Amber, performs her song Yes, I Can. At right, 10-year-old artist Aiden Lee presents one of his paintings to Mayor Rob Burton. | photos by Michael Ivanin - special to the Beaver The Halton community came together Sunday, April 6, for a good time and to support children with autism. The second annual Autism Awareness Variety Show, held at the OE Banquet and Conference Centre in Oakville, was organized by locallybased Project Autism -- a grassroots initiative focused on changing perceptions and improving the lives of those affected by all disabilities. The show featured performances from a number of dancers and musicians, including Burlington singer/songwriter Amber (Stephanie Beatson) -- who recently launched a song and video for Yes, I Can -- Jimere Bryan, Sean Harvey, Brydan Smith, The Fox and the Moon, Justin Idems and Whiskey Epiphany. "Events like this really do help to get the word out. A lot of times, people don't know there are people out there looking for help with services," said Project Autism founder Patrick Lee. "Like-minded parents come together to create this community for our kids to be themselves so other people understand a little more about autism." April 2 was declared World Autism Awareness Day by the United Nations General Assembly to highlight a need to improve the lives of children and adults with autism. see Show on p.12 Voted the Best in Oakville We Invite you to find out why! Call today for your personal tour. We'd love to have you join us! Retirement Living 380 Sherin Drive, Oakville, Ontario (905) 847-1413 www.vistamere.ca At Its Best