By Kristin Molstre
A group of young professionals want their neighbors in Mt. Lebanon to put on their dancing shoes for a good cause this weekend.
Experience LEBO — Lifestyles Enriched by Opportunity — will shut down part of Washington Road to stage its second annual ULTRAparty from 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday.
Organizers hope to showcase the local business district.
“There were a few of us who thought there was a need to make sure that people understood that Mt. Lebanon was a fun, friendly community to live, work and play,” said Dorene Ciletti, an Experience LEBO board member. “A lot of social activities, great restaurants and shops, a reason for people to be here.”
All proceeds from the event support The Autism Center of Pittsburgh, which offers speech therapy, occupational therapy, psychological evaluations and parent support.
“It’s partying for a good cause,” Ciletti said.
With the help of $22,000 raised by ULTRAparty last year, The Autism Center opened a new office in January on Washington Road. According to Cindy Waeltermann, founder and director of the center, it has served about 450 families in the past year, diagnosing about six new cases of autism a week.
“I have to say that of all the places that we have offices, the South Hills office is my favorite because the community has been so accepting and the people there are so wonderful,” Waeltermann said.
The Autism Center will use the money donated from this weekend’s party to cover operational expenses and provide activities and support for parents of newly diagnosed children.
“Without the ULTRAparty, I’m not sure we would make it through the year,” said Waeltermann. “It’s very tough to get grants in this economic climate.”
Mt. Lebanon officials agreed to close Washington Road to vehicles between Cedar and Castle Shannon boulevards. Uptown garages and lots will be available for parking.
Registration tables will be set up on each end of Washington Road to check ID’s and sell wristbands, which are required to purchase alcohol. There is a suggested admission donation to The Autism Center of $5.
Many local businesses and restaurants are offering specials and extending hours to encourage attendance. Food and drink vendors will be available on both sides of street.
The ’80s cover band Velveeta will return as the entertainment for the evening.
(c) 2008 Tribune-Review/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.
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