The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce hosted its Business Development Kickoff Luncheon recently at Spartan Manor, located at 6121 Massachusetts Ave, New Port Richey. The past 2 years have been challenging to most businesses and entrepreneurs, but can you imagine the journey it was for an Autistic young man with Asperger's Syndrome who wanted to be an author?

Chris Angilella, a student from Marchman Technical School didn't let the world or his personal challenges prevent him from realizing his dream to become an author! Angilella, 24, was the featured speaker and he told everyone about his inspiring story of his journey at the Business Development Week Kick Off Lunch. Chris is a first-time author who has Asperger's Syndrome. He has worked hard to fit into a world that often doesn't understand who he is.

His interest in drawing and creating stories began in childhood as a way to be in a world that was safe for him. He wrote Dotty's Freckles to inspire people who have a disability and wants to send a message that they are exceptional. He believes that it is important to be who you are and not allow others to treat you differently from anyone else. Chris is continuing to create stories that utilize original characters who understand what it means to be exceptional to create his ABLE Universe. Books were available for $10 and Chris autographed them after the presentation.