When a Year Is Too Long: NJ Nonprofit Cuts Autism Wait Times

The Uncommon Thread

Across New Jersey, many families wait 9–12 months for an autism diagnostic evaluation, delaying access to therapy during the most critical years of early childhood development. A New Jersey nonprofit, The Uncommon Thread, is working to change that. For nearly 20 years, the organization has supported children with autism and their families. Now it has launched a coordinated 30-Day Pathway designed to move families from initial concern to diagnostic evaluation and evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy in approximately one month whenever possible. This streamlined process supports families, pediatricians, schools, and diagnosing specialists by reducing delays and improving coordination of care. The organization leverages its extensive network of partnering specialists throughout NJ to help secure timely diagnostic evaluations and accelerate access to treatment. The nonprofit is also advancing earlier identification by leveraging EarliPoint, an FDA-cleared eye-tracking diagnostic tool that can detect autism risk as early as 16 months of age with about 90% accuracy. The Uncommon Thread provides early intervention services for children ages 1–5, when therapy can have the greatest impact on language, communication, and long-term developmental outcomes. “The system was never designed to move quickly enough for young children with autism,” said Greg Carr, Founder and Executive Director of The Uncommon Thread. “When families are told to wait six months, nine months, or even a year, that is a time in a child's development they cannot get back. We created the 30-Day Pathway because children cannot afford delays. The earlier we identify and intervene, the greater the opportunity to change the course of a child’s life.” As Autism Awareness Month approaches, the organization hopes to raise awareness about the importance of early identification and timely intervention. For more information contact: earlyanswers@theuncommonthread.org or 908-604-4500.

Union County

New York City Metropolitan Area

New Providence-Berkeley Heights

New Jersey

Across New Jersey, many families wait 9–12 months for an autism diagnostic evaluation, delaying access to therapy during the most critical years of...

Luxury Apartments at Cranford’s Hyatt Hills

Fairways at Cranford

Fairways at Cranford is a newly developed luxury apartment community offering modern one- and two-bedroom residences in one of Union County’s most desirable locations. Set alongside the scenic Hyatt Hills Golf Course, the community offers a rare “living on the green” experience—combining peaceful surroundings with convenient access to everything Cranford has to offer. Each residence features thoughtfully designed layouts with contemporary finishes, in-unit washer and dryer, and high-quality appliances. Residents also enjoy a full suite of amenities, including a fitness center, resident lounge, coworking spaces, and professionally maintained outdoor areas. Located just minutes from downtown Cranford, Fairways provides easy access to restaurants, shopping, and NJ Transit service with direct connections to New York City—making it ideal for commuters and those seeking a balance between suburban comfort and urban accessibility. Professionally managed by Greystar, Fairways at Cranford delivers a refined rental experience in a highly sought-after market. Schedule a tour today to experience elevated living at Fairways at Cranford.

Cranford

Fairways at Cranford is a newly developed luxury apartment community offering modern one- and two-bedroom residences in one of Union County’s most...

kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and whole-home renovations

Home Concepts Construction 

Home Concepts Construction works on kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and whole-home renovations across northern New Jersey. We started this company because too many remodels go off the rails for the same reasons every time: scope wasn’t pinned down, hidden conditions turned into “surprise” change orders, and the homeowner felt left in the dark for weeks at a time.

Home Concepts Construction works on kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and whole-home renovations across northern New Jersey. We started this company...

PSE&G

Public Service Electric &amp; Gas Co. is New Jersey’s oldest and largest gas and electric delivery public utility, as well as one of the nation’s largest utilities. PSE&amp;G has won the ReliabilityOne® Award for superior electric system reliability in the Mid-Atlantic region for 24 consecutive years. In 2025, for the fourth consecutive year, J.D. Power named PSE&amp;G number one in customer satisfaction for residential electric service in the East among large utilities.  PSE&amp;G is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Inc., (PSEG) (NYSE:PEG), a predominantly regulated infrastructure company named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for North America for 17 consecutive years (www.pseg.com).

Somerset County

Alexis Tarrazi

Bridgewater

Public Service Electric & Gas Co. is New Jersey’s oldest and largest gas and electric delivery public utility, as well as one of the nation’s...

Your one stop outdoor company. From grass to pavers.

Lawn-Gevity Landscaping 

Full service lawn care company, in business since 1994.  We do it all lawn care, sprinkler installation and repair, landscape lighting, planting, masonry, pavers, and snow removal.  From design to installation and maintenance.

Scotch Plains-Fanwood

Full service lawn care company, in business since 1994. We do it all lawn care, sprinkler installation and repair, landscape lighting, planting,...

Serving Morris, Somerset, Union, and Essex counties

Picatinny Federal Credit Union

Picatinny Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial partner for individuals and their families who live, work, worship, or learn in Morris, Somerset, Union, and Essex counties. For 85+ years, we’ve been dedicated to helping our members and community thrive. We support members like family and help them navigate financial needs through all stages of life. Since our founding, we’ve reinvested our profits and passed them along to our members, not shareholders. Member-owned and led translates to lower fees, higher savings rates, more conveniences, and better loan terms. Our more than 19,000 members have access to five branch locations, 55,000 fee-free ATMs, and robust 24/7 online banking. Picatinny Federal Credit Union is insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).

Picatinny Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial partner for individuals and their families who live, work, worship, or learn in Morris,...

Transforming New Jersey Backyards Into Private Oases

The Pool Boss

Based in Wayne, New Jersey, The Pool Boss is an award-winning design and construction firm recognized as one of the "world’s greatest" pool companies and a premier builder in New Jersey. Specializing in rapid, high-quality installations and custom backyard transformations, the company offers elite amenities including fire pits, landscaping, hardscaping, water features, and outdoor kitchens. As an owner-operated company, The Pool Boss is led by founder and CEO Christopher Argenziano, whose hands-on approach ensures accountability and precision for every project. Built on the philosophy that a five-star experience is created by people rather than just plans, The Pool Boss provides bespoke designs tailored to the unique vision and needs of every family. 

Basking Ridge

Based in Wayne, New Jersey, The Pool Boss is an award-winning design and construction firm recognized as one of the "world’s greatest" pool...

 Springfield Collectibles

We specialize in selling collectibles, electronics and household items on trusted online marketplaces. With over 8 years of experience, we handle the entire selling process, from listing to delivery, so you don’t have to. Once your items are sold, you get paid. Our goal is to maximize value and get you the best possible return for your items. Turn your items collecting dust into Income with sellers you can trust. 

Summit

We specialize in selling collectibles, electronics and household items on trusted online marketplaces. With over 8 years of experience, we handle...

A patient-centered plastic surgery practice

Somerset Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery

Dr. Matthew Clott’s Somerset Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery (now a member of the prestigious Atlantic Health Partners division of Atlantic Healthcare) is a patient-centered plastic surgery practice that offers a variety of aesthetic enhancements, including Breast Reduction, Breast Augmentation, Breast Lifts, Tummy Tucks, Liposuction and Eyelid Lifts. Dr. Clott is also skilled at reconstructive surgery, including breast reconstruction, excision and reconstruction of skin cancers, traumatic plastic surgery and all hand surgery. His extensive hand surgery experience allows him to comfortably manage complex hand trauma, carpal tunnels, trigger fingers, Dequervaines disease, Dupytrene’s hand contractures and most other hand related issues (bone, nerve, tendon, soft tissue). Dr. Clott pride’s himself on an incredible personal experience and attention to detail, giving each patient the time they need to understand the issue and make a safe and effective plan of care.

Warren

Dr. Matthew Clott’s Somerset Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery (now a member of the prestigious Atlantic Health Partners division of Atlantic...

BERKELEY HEIGHTS, NJ -- Santa Claus and his elves are making a <a href="https://www.tapinto.net/towns/berkeley-heights/articles/santa-arrives-in-berkeley-heights-saturday-dec-1" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">quick stop</a> to Berkeley Heights. According to TAPinto.net Santa will be at Town Hall on Dec. 2 from 10:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. Children are welcomed to come and tell Santa what they want for Christmas.More <a href="https://www.tapinto.net/towns/berkeley-heights/articles/santa-arrives-in-berkeley-heights-saturday-dec-1" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">VIA TAPinto.net</a>

BERKELEY HEIGHTS, NJ -- Santa Claus and his elves are making a <a href="https://www.tapinto.net/towns/berkeley-heights/articles/santa-arrives-in-berkeley-heights-saturday-dec-1" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">quick stop</a> to Berkeley Heights. According to TAPinto.net Santa will be at Town Hall on Dec. 2 from 10:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. Children are welcomed to come and tell Santa what they want for Christmas.

More <a href="https://www.tapinto.net/towns/berkeley-heights/articles/santa-arrives-in-berkeley-heights-saturday-dec-1" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">VIA TAPinto.net</a>

Come out and meet him at Town Hall on Dec. 2

Santa Claus will be coming to Berkeley Heights

Santa Is Coming To Berkeley Heights

Community Corner

Westfield

Springfield

Clark-Garwood

Morris County

Chatham

Essex County

Millburn-Short Hills

Watchung-Green Brook

Maplewood

Hard Rock Cafe

Fall in Love with Rock All Over Again
Inside the legendary Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square, discover an experience where music isn’t just heard… but felt.
Rock Never Dies is a one-of-a-kind immersive theatrical event from American Immersion Theater that is part concert, part love story, and fully a magical journey. This groundbreaking production invites you to dine, drink, and fall headfirst into the soul of rock and roll.
Enjoy a full three-course meal inside the Magical Mystery Museum of Hard Rock, a place where music has power, memories come alive, and one life is changed forever every night. It’s an experience that inspires you to keep dreaming and march to the beat of your own drum.
At the heart of the story is Caroline, a young artist who’s lost hope and heart. As legendary music icons come to life around her, she’s forced to confront love, loss, and the courage to take the stage again. Along the way, you won’t just watch the story, but be part of it.
Created by award-winning, immersive visionary Scott Cramton, often called the Willy Wonka of Immersive Theater, this joyful, high-energy spectacle blends iconic rock anthems with romance, comedy, and electrifying audience interaction.
Whether you're on a date, celebrating something special, or just chasing that feeling music used to give you, this is your night.
All it takes&nbsp;
is one song, one moment, and a second chance
to change everything.

Show Schedule
Fridays 7:30 PM
Saturdays 7:30 PM

Local Event: Rock Never Dies: An Immersive Theatrical Experience at Hard Rock Cafe

New York County

New York City

New York

Rock Never Dies: An Immersive Theatrical...

Fall in Love with Rock All Over Again
Inside the legendary Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square, discover an experience where music...

Rock Never Dies: An Immersive Theatrical Experience at Hard Rock Cafe

Alexander Kasser Theater

Discover Rhapsody in Blue will be The Discovery Orchestra’s 7th public television production. From Bach to Saint-Saëns, our television programs have reached millions of viewers across the United States and around the world—significantly elevating the profile of The Discovery Orchestra and showcasing our signature approach to helping audiences listen more deeply to classical music.
This year, we turn to George Gershwin’s iconic Rhapsody in Blue, a dazzling fusion of classical tradition and jazz energy that captures the heartbeat of 1920s America. Its rhythmic brilliance, sweeping melodies, and unmistakable spirit continue to resonate with audiences. Join Maestro George Marriner Maull and The Discovery Orchestra as they uncover what makes this masterpiece so timeless—and why it continues to thrill us a century after its debut.
We are thrilled to feature special guest pianist <a href="https://claytonstephenson.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Clayton Stephenson</a>, an internationally-acclaimed virtuoso known for his joyful charisma, expressive depth, and fresh, poetic interpretations. His dynamic artistry brings a powerful new voice to Rhapsody, making this performance especially exciting.
We invite you to the stunning Alexander Kasser Theater at Montclair State University as we film this live Discovery Concert. Experience the electricity of a television production unfolding around you—the cameras, the lights, the behind-the-scenes choreography—and feel the excitement of being part of something created for millions to enjoy. Your presence will add energy and authenticity to the program!
Event Details: Sunday, June 14, 2026 3:00 – 4:30pm (must be seated by 2:45pm!) Alexander Kasser Theater at Montclair State University 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07043


PLEASE READ: Important Ticket Information<ul><li>Tickets are free but required for entry. Use this <a href="https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/CARTPerformanceOperations/1631/?eventidlist=1465989" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">link</a>&nbsp;to reserve your tickets and choose your seats from the seat map. (You’ll be redirected to Montclair State University’s ticketing site.)</li><li>After selecting your seat(s), click “Add to Cart” and choose your ticket delivery method. You’ll be asked to enter your email and mailing address.</li><li>On the Billing Information page, you’ll be prompted to create a password—this simply allows you to access your tickets later. No payment or credit card information is required.</li><li>You will see a Donation/Membership page during checkout. No action is needed—just scroll down and click the green “Continue” button.</li><li>Questions? Email us at: info@discoveryorchestra.org.</li></ul>

Local Event: Discover Rhapsody in Blue

Montclair

Discover Rhapsody in Blue

Discover Rhapsody in Blue will be The Discovery Orchestra’s 7th public television production. From Bach to Saint-Saëns, our...

Westfield Residents Voice Data Center Concerns...

Questions about power, water and regional impacts dominated the discussion.

Westfield Residents Voice Data Center Concerns At Town Hall

Politics & Government

Good Behavior Gets Kids Free Pizza in New...

The police department's new "Slices for Safety" initiative partners to reward young young residents for helmet use, road safety etc. 

Good Behavior Gets Kids Free Pizza in New Providence This June

Mercer County

West Windsor

Woman Killed After Driving Through NJ Police...

A crash Friday morning killed the driver who breached the closure set up after an earlier red-light collision left a 22-year-old injured.

Woman Killed After Driving Through NJ Police Barricade; 2 Injured

Crime & Safety

Burlington County

Moorestown

Support Surges For NJ Boy Gravely Injured By...

Support Surges For NJ Boy Gravely Injured By Baseball To The Head 

🌱 Patch AM: New Providence Police Department...

And on the New Providence Patch calendar - Rock Never Dies: An Immersive Theatrical Experience at Hard Rock Cafe

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Santa Is Coming To Berkeley Heights

Santa Claus will be coming to Berkeley Heights

Katharine Friedman, Patch Staff

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Katharine Friedman, Patch Staff<img alt="Verified Patch Staff Badge" class="styles_Badge__np_hU" src="https://patch.com/img/cdn/assets/layout/badges/verified-patch-staff.svg"/>

Katharine Friedman, Patch Staff