feature story / 23 labor market – in the next decade. But young adults with autism are less likely than individuals with other disabili- ties to be employed, research shows. As Kearon notes, “As many as 80 to 90 percent of adults with autism are unemployed or badly underemployed below their capabilities.” But like Miller and Kattouf, more and more parents are starting busi- nesses that employ their children, and others, with autism. Examples include Maplewood’s own Words Bookstore; Rising Tide Car Wash in Parkland, Florida; SMILE Biscotti in Phoe- nix, Arizona; Green Bridge Growers in South Bend, Indiana; and Girl Again in White Plains, New York. Says Kearon, “Beyond the economic impact, of course, these businesses are providing so much more to these talented individuals – a real opportunity to be accepted and embraced as a fully contributing member of society.” As for Justin and John, they are just two happy boys making soaps with their beloved moms. For more information, visit belovedbath.com, @belovedbathcom- pany on Facebook or @belovedbath on Instagram. Malia Rulon Herman is a freelance edu- cation and healthcare reporter based in Maplewood. Her favorite Beloved Bath scent is “fresh linen,” but she can’t wait to get her hands on a “bacon bar.” n “May your thirst for life never run dry” Authentic Irish Cuisine, Irish Coffee, Fine Wines and Irish Whiskey worthy of Celtic Kings Experience the best of Ireland’s Pub traditions Family Friendly • Good Cheer Raw Bar on Fridays 4–7 p.m. ST. JAMES’S GATE APPAREL AND GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE WEBSITE: www.stjamesgatepublickhouse.com Join us fireside for lunch and dinner 167 Maplewood Avenue Maplewood Village 973-378-2222 Check our website for upcoming events LOOK FOR OUR: Fall Brews! Fall Menu Items! Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Celebration! Mark your calendars: ROBERT J. MILLER OYSTERFEST SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 1 pm to 9 pm at The Woodland featuring Oysters, Bands, Melanoma Screenings, Food Vendors, Beer Garden For tickets, visit bobmilleroysterfest.com Mickey Fried Preschool of Oheb Shalom Congregation LEARN. CREATE. PLAY. For 2-5 Year Olds World Arts Program Enrichment Program Children will explore music, visual arts, dancing, photography and writing from around the world. Junior Scientists, Cooking, Art Masters, Kids Yoga, and My Gym. Register Today! MickeyFriedPreschool.org facebook.com/MickeyFriedPreschool 170 Scotland Road, South Orange, NJ (973) 762-7069 The community is warm, the teachers are caring and professional, and the general vibe is perfect for our family. “ “ Extended Day Contact Sloane Goldstein, Director, at nurserydir@ohebshalom.org for more information or to schedule a tour. Flexible childcare options from 8 am to 6 pm daily. Perfect for working families!