FLAME, a group from upstate New York made up of 10 people with developmental/physical disabilities, including autism, Down’s syndrome, and blindness, is capturing the world’s attention but their message remains the same. The band from Lexington Center, Fulton County Chapter, NYSARC, Inc., wants to change the world through music. They are a phenomenon that inspires people and changes the way the general public view people with disabilities. People of all ages and backgrounds connect with this special rock band, especially those who have a disability. Parents are often overcome with emotion watching FLAME, seeing that it’s possible to have their child achieve great things and, even more importantly, have a fun, fulfilling life. FLAME began in 2003 from a recreation program at Lexington Center, Johnstown, NY. The plan was to have the band play at the agency and around town. However the profound effect they have on their audiences made it impossible to keep FLAME within the confines of Fulton County. Word spread and requests for hire began pouring in and FLAME now averages over 70 paid performances per year, including concerts in 15 different states (NY, NJ, PA, CO, DC, ID, MA, ME, VT, RI, IN, CT, TX, OH) and in Europe. They perform for national and statewide conventions, corporate conferences, civic events, school functions, dances, and private parties. Their song list contains over 100 classic hit rock, country and blues songs from the past five decades. FLAME is now an international touring band in high demand. They have released 3 CDs, travel on a custom tour bus, and working on releasing a 4th CD on May 11, 2011 at Lexington Center, 127 East State Street, Gloversville, NY. Recent events has catapulted Flame into the national spotlight. Performances at Manhattan's Gracie Mansion for NYC Mayor Bloomberg, being in "People" magazine and being featured on ABC TV's "Good Morning America" has positioned Flame to greatly expand their scope of influence.