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LEGISLATIVE BIRTHDAY CALENDAR “REAL JOBS FOR REAL PAY!” EDITION 1 General Assembly

The 2012 Session of the Maryland Assembly convenes on These numbers will connect you with the Maryland General Assembly January 11, 2012 through midnight April 9, 2012. To keep switchboard operator who will forward your call to your Senator or Delegate’s office. The Governor’s office is 410-974-3901. up-to-date through out the Legislative Session, go to Senate www.mlis.state.md.us for bill hearings, committee Budget & Taxation schedules, to contact your legislator or to track legislation. 3 West, Miller Senate Building (410) 841-3960 / 301-858-3960

You can also go to www.thearcmd.org and click onto Take

Action for action alerts and updates on key disability issues. Education, Health & Environmental Affairs 2 West, Miller Senate Building (410) 841-3661 / 301-858-3661 To contact your legislator call: Finance 410-946-5400 (/Annapolis Area) 3 West, Miller Senate Building (410) 841-3677 / 301-858-3677 301-970-5400 (Washington Metro Area) House 800-492-7122 (Elsewhere in Maryland) Appropriations Environmental Matters 121 House Office Building 251 House Office Building (410) 841-3407 /301-858-3407 (410) 841-3488 /301-858-3488

Health & Government Opera- Judiciary tions 101 House Office Building 241 House Office Building (410) 841-3488 /301-858-3488 (410) 841-3770 /301-858-3770 Ways & Means Economic Matters 131 House Office Building 231 House Office Building (410) 841-3469 /301-858-3469 (410) 841-3990 /301-858-3990

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About The Arc Maryland

2012 Top Policy Priorities of The Arc: The Arc Maryland has been working to improve the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental Preserve Civil Rights: At the heart of all we do at The Arc is to ensure equal rights and opportunities for individuals with disabilities since 1950. From modest beginnings as a small group of intellectual and developmental disabilities. We advocate for self -determination, inclusion, and the right to communicate. Lack concerned parents to the largest and strongest organization of support for these basic human rights decrease opportunities assisting persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities in education, housing, employment, personal relationships, and present barriers to fully contributing to society. We must in Maryland. The Arc has led the way in promoting new program continue to explain that civil rights apply equally to all individuals, including those with the most significant methodology and utilizing state of the art technology to benefit disabilities. individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and End the Wait: Continue to support the Waiting List Initiatives to their families. The Arc Maryland is a volunteer grassroots meet the needs of individuals who are a) enrolled in the DD waiver and require additional services as a legal right b) on the organization comprised of people with disabilities, parents and DDA waiting list and c) on the Autism Waiver registry. Obtain other family members, educators and professionals working in the full funding for Transitioning Youth Program. Advocate that all the waiting lists are accurate and updated and that the state field of developmental disabilities and interested persons from the has accurate and timely information about and data on the needs of individuals. general public. Along with its 10 local affiliates, The Arc Maryland belongs to a nationwide, non-profit, voluntary movement boasting Fund Community Programs: Continue to seek funding to ensure a quality system of Community Programs including funding for over 140,000 members and more than 700 state and local chapters inflationary increases and the costs of mandated regulations and across the nation. competitive wages for direct support staff. Community Programs include residential, employment, vocational, and individual and family supports. The Arc Maryland works to create a world where children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have Close Institutions: Unjustified segregation is a violation of and enjoy equal rights and opportunities individual rights. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the legal right to inclusive lives in the community, with appropriate quality supports. Oppose Steve Pyles, President Phone: 410-571-9320 expansion of state residential centers and new admissions, Kate Fialkowski, Executive Director Fax: 410-974-6021 including capital and operating funds. 49 Old Solomon’s Island Rd # 205 Web: www.thearcmd.org Annapolis, MD 21401 Real Jobs for Real Pay: Advocate for people with disabilities in competitive jobs to be paid market wages and benefits.

3 Real Jobs For Real Pay

Edward Willard, End The Wait Now! Statewide Campaign Coordinator, explains that people with disabilities are becoming a part of the competitive employment world; this in some cases includes positions of leadership. Working twenty-six years in the disability field, Edward has been in management four times. This includes working for a national organization for people with disabilities rights (TASH), The Maryland Department of Disabilities, and currently with The Arc Maryland, as the statewide program manager for The End the Wait Now Campaign. Edward says that “As a person with a significant disability and significant skills, I take pride in supporting, teaching, and being the “go to” person for helping other people to do their jobs and encouraging people to get jobs.”

“I was at a crossroad in my career and The Arc Maryland was seeking a manager for The End the Wait campaign. I interviewed for the position and am pleased to have received the opportunity. It was a natural and wonderful new opportunity for me to take. People have asked me “What does it take to get here?” As with people without disabilities, my experience and working up the ladder has earned me my leadership role. I do not support the concept of people with disabilities being token leaders. “My advice for employers? I encourage you to see all people for their capabilities and competencies.” For more information on End the Wait Now, check out the website: www.endthewaitnow.com

The Arc Maryland is pleased to lead off this year’s Legislative Calendar, Employment Edition. The Arc Maryland has a long history of employing individuals with developmental disabilities. In addition to individuals, currently in our employ, we also want to recognize all the Ask Me! interviewers — many of whom worked with on Ask Me! for many years. For more information on programs at The Arc Maryland, contact Shaneka Harris ([email protected]).

Edward Willard, End The Wait Now! Statewide Campaign Coordinator, explains that people with disabilities are becoming a part of the competitive employment world.

4 JANUARY 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Jan 1 New Years Day Jan 2 Delegate Kelly M. Schulz 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Jan 2 Delegate Steve J. DeBoy, Sr. Jan 2 Delegate Ann Healey Jan 4 Delegate Michael E. Busch Jan 4 Delegate Frank M. Conaway, Jr. Jan 9 Delegate Sam Arora 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Jan 10 Congressman Jan 11 Delegate Norman H. Conway Jan 11 Delegate Ana Sol Guitierrez Jan 11 Legislative Session Convenes Jan 12 Delegate Jon S. Cardin 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Jan 13 Delegate John F. Wood, Jr. Jan 16 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Jan 17 Delegate Wendell R. Beitzel Jan 17 Lt. Governor Anthony Brown Jan 18 Senator James N. Robey 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Jan 18 Congressman Elijah Cummings Jan 18 Governor Martin O’Malley Jan 24 Delegate Jan 25 Congressman Andrew P. Harris Jan 26 Delegate Nicholaus R. Kipke 29 30 31 Jan 27 Delegate Luiz R.S. Simmons Jan 28 Delegate Jay A. Jacobs Jan 30 Delegate Jan 31 Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger

This month is sponsored by The Arc Maryland

Steve Pyles, President Phone: 410-571-9320 Kate Fialkowski, Executive Director Fax: 410-974-6021 49 Old Solomon’s Island Rd # 205 Web: www.thearcmd.org Annapolis, MD 21401

5 Best Buy Finds a Good Match

Randi Penenburgh is deep in thought, carefully studying the prices on video games to make sure they match the ones on the Columbia Best Buy store’s display shelves. She enjoys her job she says. But the video games? Randi is much more interested in real life competition on the ski slopes, the bocces court or the gym, where she lifts weights. Last summer, she won the gold medal in power lifting at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens. “She's a jock.,” her father, Joel Penenburgh, says.

Like workers everywhere, Randi has a variety of interests when she’s not on the job and uses her days off to train and pursue her love of sports and competition. But what sets her apart from most workers is a developmental disability. Years ago, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities were separated into “sheltered workshops.” But that all changed when The Arc Howard County began its Employment Program more than 20 years ago. Now, with support from The Arc and often their coworkers, The Arc clients like Randi are valuable members of the local workforce.

More than 120 individuals receive employment services from The Arc. They have jobs in local stores, manufacturing facilities and warehouses. The people supported by The Arc have worked in animal care, childcare, food demonstration, packaging and landscaping. Some have even started their own businesses. In the workforce, according to The Arc Director of Employment Services Bonnie Cronin, people with disabilities represent a “wide range of backgrounds, experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities.”

When hiring people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, she says, “employers are tapping into an underutilized pool of workers who are talent-qualified and capable individuals. They’re competent, and they’re enthusiastic and loyal.” Randi works as a sales associate in the Randi Penenburgh’s job coach, Charlie Lewis, thinks Randi and Best Buy are a good match. electronic games department at Best Buy on Mondays and Tuesdays. On Thursdays and Fridays, she “She loves the work,” he says. volunteers at the Evergreens Senior Adult Day Care Facility on Guilford Road in Columbia. She receives employment services and transportation support from The Arc. In addition to having employees who are competent, reliable and loyal, Cronin sees another benefit to hiring people who are disabled. “Companies that hire individuals with disabilities or remove architectural or other barriers may be eligible for tax incentives,” she says.

To learn more about federal tax incentives for hiring individuals with disabilities, contact the Mid- Atlantic Americans with Disabilities Act Center at 1-800-949-4232. For more information about The Arc Howard County’s Employment Program, contact Bonnie Cronin at 410-730-0638, extension 247 or [email protected]. 6 FEBRUARY 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS

Feb 1 Delegate Mary Dulany-James Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Feb 1 Delegate Tawanna P. Gaines 1 2 3 4 Date — Describe an upcoming event in detail here. You may want to include the time and location or give a special Febphone 2 number whereGroundhog readers can reach a contact person forDay more information. Date — Describe an upcoming event in detail here. You may want to include the time and location or give a special Feb phone3 number whereCongressman readers can reach a contact person for more John information. Sarbanes Date — Describe an upcoming event in detail here. You may want to include the time and location or give a special phone number where readers can reach a contact person for more information. Feb Date4 — Describe Delegate an upcoming event in detail here. Brian You may want toJ. include Feldmanthe time and location or give a special phone number where readers can reach a contact person for more information. Date — Describe an upcoming event in detail here. You may want to include the time and location or give a special Feb phone4 number whereDelegate readers can reach a contact Williamperson for more information. J. Frank Date — Describe an upcoming event in detail here. You may want to include the time and location or give a special Feb phone7 number whereDelegate readers can reach a contact Veronicaperson for more information. Turner 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Feb 9 Delegate Galen R. Clagett Feb 9 Senator Richard F. Colburn Feb 9 Delegate Sheila E. Hixson Feb 10 Delegate Anne R. Kaiser Feb 11 Delegate Donald H. Dwyer, Jr. 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Feb 11 Delegate Hattie N. Harrison Feb 14 Valentines Day Feb 15 Together Were Better Reception Feb 15 Delegate Charles J. Otto Feb 15 Delegate Keith E. Haynes 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Feb 15 Delegate Patrick N. Hogan Feb 20 Presidents Day Feb 21 Developmental Disabilities Day Feb 21 Delegate Mary Ann Love Feb 22 Ash Wednesday 26 27 28 29 Feb 22 Senator James Brochin Feb 22 Senator Kathy Klausmeier Feb 24 Delegate Donna Stifler Feb 28 Delegate Stephen W. Lafferty This month is sponsored by The Arc Howard County

Douglas Erdman, President Phone: 410-730-0638 Carol Beatty, Executive Director Fax: 410-730-0730 11735 Homewood Road Web: www.archoward.org Ellicott City, MD 21042

7 Career Commitment

He buzzes around the empty restaurant like a man on a mission, working with crisp efficiency to fill the ice bins for the soda fountain machines and stock the french fry freezer before the doors open for the day, and before he has to leave for one of his other jobs.

Chuck Fox is a very busy man. He has worked at the Wendy’s restaurant in Westminster for 17 years now, ever since coming to The Arc Carroll County in 1994. He works about two hours a day Monday through Friday maintaining the parking lot, keeping the ice bins full and french fry freezer stocked, maintaining the dining room and washing windows among other things. He follows his routine under the watchful eye of job coach Don Lotz, who keeps him on task any time he tries to take short cuts.

Chuck is one of three people with an intellectual or developmental disability employed at this restaurant. His tenure at the restaurant is impressive. Over the years Chuck has seen many changes in his staff support, family structure and at the restaurant itself, and has adapted to the changes.

After he leaves the restaurant each day, Chuck goes to one of his other three jobs. Two days a week he works in the cafeteria at Carroll Hospital Center maintaining the dining room. Three days a week he maintains the Westminster City parking garage on Green Street, and helps with general cleaning and other duties at Avenue Tailor in Westminster.

Chuck Fox says he “enjoys the work at all of his jobs, but likes the most that “it’s a Chuck says he enjoys the work at all of his jobs, but likes the most that “it’s a paying job.” When paying job.” he’s not working Chuck enjoys watching DVDs, reading the TV Guide, going to the YMCA and shopping. One day, he says, he’d like to own his own home. At 37, there’s still plenty of time for Chuck to work toward achieving any goal he sets his mind to. In keeping with the DDA’s Employment First initiative The Arc Carroll County has implemented an Employment First Strategic Change Plan to encourage supportive employment opportunities and indi- vidualized services. This plan will match job seekers with person-centered customized employment. The Arc Carroll County has initiated cross functional core work teams who meet on a monthly basis to assist with forming individualized employment support plans; outcomes are reviewed frequently. The team assists the job seeker with each phase of the employment process, including: discovery, preparation and exploration, job development, employment and on-going supports. In addition, some employment seekers have opted to utilize a microenterprise model. Currently three entrepreneurs have their own vending machine businesses and a fourth individual is exploring a recycling opportuni- ty. The Arc Carroll County’s Employment Services is guided by an innovative employment process and is successfully supporting individualized employment solutions for job seekers.

8 MARCH 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Mar National Developmental Disabilities Month 1 2 3 Mar 4 Delegate Joseph F. Vallario, Jr. Mar 5 Delegate Benjamin F. Kramer Mar 5 Delegate Geraldine Valentino-Smith Mar 5 Senator Paul G. Pinsky 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mar 7 Delegate Anthony J. O’Donnell Mar 9 Delegate Andrew A. Serafini Mar 10 Senator Catherine E. Pugh Mar 11 Daylight Savings Time Begins Mar 11 Senator Joanne C. Benson 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Mar 14 Delegate Shane Pendergrass Mar 15 Delegate Melvin Stukes Mar 16 Delegate Joseph J. Minnick Mar 17 St. Patrick’s Day Mar 19 Delegate Doyle L. Niemann 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Mar 20 First Day of Spring Mar 23 Delegate Craig J. Zucker Mar 24 Senator Barry Glassman Mar 24 Delegate Bonnie L. Cullison 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Mar 27 Delegate Mar 27 Senator J.B. Jennings Mar 27 State School Superintendent Bernard J. Sadusky, ED.D. Mar 30 Delegate Ben Barnes Mar 31 Senator John C. Astle This month is sponsored by The Arc Carroll County

Lynn Davis, President Phone: 410-848-4124 Don Rowe, Executive Director Fax: 410-876-5317 180 Kriders Church Road Web: www.arccarroll.com Westminster, MD 21158

9 Supported Employment at The Arc

The Supported Employment Program at The Arc of Washington County offers training opportunities and support in finding and sustaining meaningful employment for people with developmental disabilities.

The Arc’s extensive on-site Recycling Center employs three and provides training for individuals from the Day Program. In addition to numerous pickup spots in Hagerstown, all cardboard dropped at the Washington County landfill is processed at The Arc. This recycling program has recycled over 8.5 million pounds of plastics, paper, cardboard, and aluminum.

Supported Employment helps individuals obtain jobs with local employers such as YMCA Hagerstown, Eastern Elementary School, Motel 6, Chuck E. Cheese’s, T.G.I. Friday’s, and Martin’s Food. Job Developers locate positions best suited to the interests and abilities of the individual, and help with the application, interview skills, transportation, and job coaching. Nineteen people are currently employed, and Jim Hurley, Supported Employment Program Manager, states, “Seeing the The pride Scott Ashworth takes in his business is evident. He says excitement on an individual’s face when told they have been hired, along with the the best part of owning his own business is “meeting lots of feeling they receive as a contributing citizen in the workforce, is most rewarding.” people,” and his sage advice to others is simply, “Don’t give up.” Self Employment/Business Support works with individuals aspiring to own an income-generating business. Participants must develop a viable small business plan in order to obtain financing. The Arc’s staff assists in preparing the plan, seeking financing approval, and completing other start-up tasks. Currently, three individuals operate successful vending businesses, two own document shredding businesses, and two are in landscaping/hauling.

Scott Ashworth has operated his own vending machines for five years. “I made a lot of mistakes at first,” he said. “I filled my first machine entirely with peanut M&M’s.” While Scott quickly learned the value of stocking his machines with a variety of snacks, his growing business acumen and guidance from The Arc’s staff enabled him to expand to two snack machines and three soda machines. For a while, Scott counted his money by hand, but growth required the purchase of an electronic money counter – just the sort of problem any small business owner would like to have!

The pride Scott takes in his business is evident. He says the best part of owning his own business is “meeting lots of people,” and his sage advice to others is simply, “Don’t give up.” The Arc’s population is a testament to this advice, and with the help of the Supported Employment Program, many are making the dream of meaningful employment a reality.

10 APRIL 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS

Apr National Autism Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Awareness Month Apr 1 April Fool’s Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Apr 3 Delegate Susan K. McComas Apr 5 Senator Joan Carter Conway Apr 6 Good Friday Apr 7 Passover 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Apr 8 Easter Apr 9 Senator George C. Edwards Apr 9 Delegate John W.E. Cluster, Jr. Apr 9 Delegate Apr 14 Senator Joseph M. Getty 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Apr 15 Delegate Justin D. Ready Apr 15 Senator William C. Ferguson, IV Apr 17 Senator C. Anthony Muse Apr 18 Delegate Justin D. Ross Apr 20 Delegate James W. Hubbard 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Apr 22 Delegate Tiffany T. Alston Apr 24 Senator Robert A. Zirkin Apr 25 Administrative Professionals Day Apr 26 Senator Roger Manno 29 30 Apr 30 Delegate Jeannie Haddaway

This month is sponsored by The Arc of Washington County

Gary Rohrer, President Phone:301-733-3550 Phyllis Landry, Executive Director Fax: 301-745-5573 820 Florida Avenue Web: www.arcwc-md.org Hagerstown, MD 21740

11 Amanda Sperber ~ A Great Match

About five years ago, when Amanda Sperber graduated from Seneca Valley High School, she selected The Arc Montgomery County to be her vocational services provider. Together with her new job coach, Amanda set out to find work she would enjoy. About the same time, CHF International contacted The Arc about hiring someone to work part-time at their Silver Spring headquarters. Amanda applied for the position, and it’s been a great match.

CHF International is a nonprofit organization which helps low and moderate income communities around the globe improve their social, economic and environmental conditions. The staff in Silver Spring depend on Amanda to sort and deliver their mail, keep their supplies ordered and stocked, scan and submit travel authorization forms and enter data about potential partners and donors into Excel spreadsheets.

Amanda’s skills are often in demand to help manage heavy filing workloads and special projects, like sorting hundreds of year-end 401(k) statements for delivery to the correct geographic location. When employees resign, retire or relocate, Amanda is responsible for sorting employee files to determine which documents can be discarded, which require shredding, and which need to be moved to long-term storage.

Amanda works four days each week, commuting to Silver Spring from Germantown. When asked what she most enjoys about her work, she said, “Getting to know and talking with the people who work here.” One of her goals is to increase her independence and decrease the frequency of visits Amanda Sperber works four days each week, commuting to Silver Spring from Germantown. from her job coach. When asked what she most enjoys about her work, she says, “Getting to know and talking Amanda is well-liked and respected by her peers, and her attention to detail and diligence are with the people who work here.” noticed and appreciated. She has a special talent for recognizing a need within CHF International, and then finding a way to fill the need or solve the problem. Amanda is thrilled to have a job she loves and family and friends who are proud of her success.

12 MAY 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS

May 1 Senator Delores G. Kelley Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat May 1 Delegate Jim Gilchrist May 2 Delegate Stephen S. 1 2 3 4 5 Hershey, Jr. May 5 Cinco De Mayo May 13 Mother’s Day May 14 Delegate Joseline Pena-Melnyk 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 May 14 Delegate Susan C. Lee May 18 The Arc MD State Convention May 18 Delegate Samuel I. Rosenburg May 19 Armed Forces Day May 20 Senator Jim Rosapepe 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 May 20 Delegate Mary L. Washington May 20 Delegate Shirley Nathan-Pulliam May 23 Delegate Rudolph C. Cane May 24 Delegate John P. Donoghue 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 May 26 Delegate Sally Jameson May 27 Delegate Cheryl Glenn May 27 Delegate Kathryn L. Afzali May 28 Memorial Day May 28 Delegate Theodore Sophocleus 27 28 29 30 31 May 30 Delegate Herbert H. McMillan May 31 Delegate Barbara Frush

This month is sponsored by The Arc Montgomery County

Eugene J. Mark, Jr., President Phone: 301-984-5777 Joyce Taylor, Executive Director Fax: 301-816-2429 11600 Nebel Street Web: www.thearcmontgomerycounty.org Rockville, MD 20852

13 Leadership Enrichment Achievement Program (LEAP)

To support transitioning youth students to enter the workforce with competitive skills, The Arc of Frederick County partners with Frederick Community College and Frederick County Public Schools to offer the Leadership Enrichment Achievement Program (LEAP) at Frederick Community College. This partnership serves as an entry point for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to enroll in enrichment and credit courses at Frederick Community College. The Arc also supports students to become involved in social activities through Frederick Community College. Students participate in activities such as: a service learning trip to Philadelphia; a day trip to Washington D.C.; the Getting Connected Club, Multi-Cultural Club, and Anime Club.

Education is key to success and meaningful employment. The Arc of Frederick County partners with students to pursue their passions as well as incorporate the practical aspects of finding employment to lead self-directed lives in the community. Participants of LEAP are equipped with skills that employers truly value.

Bradley Robinette was named the 2011 Employee of the Year by Bradley Robinette, was named the 2011 Employee of the Year by Maryland Works. Maryland Works. Bradley was recognized for having completed a Child Care Certification and working at Head Start; working at Giant Foods; contributing to The Arc of Frederick County Blog; and enrolling in his first two courses at Frederick Community College during the 2011 school year.

The Leadership Enrichment Achievement Program (LEAP) at Frederick Community College is carving the next path for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc of Frederick County is proud to partner with our local collaborators as well as national supports such as The Arc and Walmart Foundation School-to-Community Transition Project.

14 JUNE 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS

Jun 3 Congressman Roscoe Bartlett Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Jun 5 Delegate Melony G. Griffith Jun 6 Delegate Dereck E. Davis 1 2 Jun 8 Delegate Barbara Robinson Jun 12 Delegate David D. Rudolph Jun 14 Flag Day Jun 14 Delegate James E. Proctor, Jr. 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Jun 14 Congressman Steny Hoyer Jun 16 Senator Richard S. Madaleno, Jr. Jun 17 Father’s Day Jun 18 Delegate Jill P. Carter Jun 18 Delegate Michael D. Smigiel, Sr. 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Jun 20 First Day of Summer Jun 22 Delegate Nancy R. Stocksdale Jun 28 Congresswoman Jun 30 Delegate Christopher B. Shank Jun 30 Delegate Joseph C. Boteler, Jr. 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

This month is sponsored by The Arc of Frederick County

Carol Debow, President Phone: 301-663-0909 Joanna Pierson, Executive Director Fax: 301-695-6454 620-A Research Drive Web: www.arcfc.org Frederick, MD 21703

15 The Gold In Golden Years

Vera Armwood has been working in the University of Maryland’s cafeteria for the past eleven years, and she is getting ready to retire! Vera has loved her job and says, “It feels good when I get my paycheck and put it in the bank. I can pay my bills and do things I like to do, like go bowling.” Retirement for Vera does not mean sitting at home, however. She plans to expand her volun- teer work at Meals On Wheels through the agency’s Employment Services. “I’ll deliver meals to people who can’t get out,” she says.

Vera, who has been supported through The Arc’s Residential Program since 1986 says, “The Arc helps me a lot. They help me go places, and work, and help me at my house.” She and her roommates truly enjoy life together. When asked about her home-life, Vera’s face brightens and she says, “I feel great living here! We go out places together, and we love to cook and eat to- gether. These are my favorite roommates; they are like family.”

Vera Armwood has loved her job and says, “It feels good when I get my The Arc Prince George’s Residential Services provides personalized communi- paycheck and put it in the bank. I can pay my bills and do things I like to do, like go bowling.” ty living supports in attractive and comfortable homes throughout Prince George’s County. Most homes serve two to four people with staff support levels that are tailored to meet the needs of individual residents. The divi- sion prides itself in ensuring that each resident lives an active and rewarding life within his or her community.

16 JULY 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS

Jul 1 Delegate Peter A. Hammen Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Jul 1 Delegate Susan L.M. Aumann 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Jul 4 Independence Day Jul 5 Delegate Kathleen M. Dumais Jul 6 Delegate Frank S. Turner Jul 8 Delegate James E. Malone, Jr. 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Jul 10 Senator Ulysses Currie Jul 15 Delegate Peter Murphy Jul 18 Senator Edward J. Kasemeyer Jul 19 Delegate A. Wade Kach Jul 20 Senator Victor R. Ramirez 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Jul 21 Delegate Pamela G. Beidle Jul 25 Delegate Steve Schuh Jul 26 22nd ADA Celebration Jul 27 Housing Secretary 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Raymond Skinner Jul 29 Delegate Aisha N. Braveboy Jul 30 Delegate Jolene Ivey Jul 30 Delegate Neil C. Parrott Jul 30 Delegate Shawn Z. Tarrant 29 30 31

This month is sponsored by The Arc Prince George’s County

Teresa Gardner-Williams, President Phone: 301-925-7050 Mac Ramsey, Executive Director Fax: 301-925-4387 1401 McCormick Drive Web: www.thearcofpgc.org Largo, MD 20774

17 Personal Achievement

Suzanne Hall has made great personal strides in both her personal life and with regards to her career choices. This past fall Suzanne was recognized for her many achievements and was The Arc of Southern Maryland’s 2011 Personal Achievement Award winner.

Suzanne graduated with a diploma from Harbour School in Annapolis. After graduation Suzanne began taking early childhood courses at the College of Southern Maryland and received a letter of recognition in Early Childcare in 2007 from the college. In 2008, Suzanne began working part-time at the Turn About Café. Initially, she worked there two days a week, two hours a day. Eventually her hours increased and she began working two days a week a full eight hours. After several years of hard work and other supplemental part-time employment, Suzanne is now a full time employee at the café.

In addition to her professional success, Suzanne has made personal gains as well. When she first began working at the café she relied on The Arc of Southern Maryland for transportation. After much hard work, Suzanne has not only obtained her drivers license, but has purchased her own car. To further add to Suzanne’s achievements, she has learned how to budget her finances is becoming increasingly fiscally independent and is currently on the waitlist for her own apartment. Suzanne Hall with Pam Klink , Owner of TurnAbout Café. Suzanne through her hard work and efforts has also become an active member of her community. In her spare time, Suzanne volunteers at the Friends for Felines animal rescue shelter and is actively involved with Special Olympics. She also enjoys making friends, reading and writing children’s stories. Suzanne truly is a special young lady and deserving of this year's Personal Achievement Award.

The Arc of Southern Maryland is proud of its Supportive Employment Program that builds these partnerships with the various businesses and organizations in Southern Maryland. It is these collaborative efforts that provide opportunities for Suzanne and others to find meaningful and gainful employment. To learn more about The Arc of Southern Maryland's Supportive Employment Program, visit www.arcsomd.org or call 410-535-2413.

18 AUGUST 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS

Aug 3 Senator Nathaniel J. McFadden Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Aug 9 Delegate Kirrill Reznik Aug 13 Delegate Cathleen M. Vitale 1 2 3 4 Aug 18 Delegate Kevin Kelly Aug 23 Senator Karen S. Montgomery Aug 26 Delegate Emmett C. Burns Aug 30 Delegate Ron George 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31

This month is sponsored by The Arc of Southern Maryland

Frank Mudd, President Phone: 410-535-2413 Harriet Yaffe, Executive Director Fax: 410-535-1314 Post Office Box 1860 Website: www.arcsomd.org Prince Frederick, MD 20678

19 John Sheehan~ Successful Businessman

John Sheehan has always had an interest in recycling, even as a boy. As he grew older, he was careful to recycle everything possible in his own house and also helped his neighbors be effective recyclers as well. His mom took note of his interest and ability and wondered if there was a way to grow that interest into a career and approached The Arc Central Chesapeake Region.

Our work with John Sheehan began in 2002 and was the spark for our employment services division. We helped John create a MicroEnterprise of his own, ShredCycle, and he helped us start our work in customized employment.

John owns ShredCycle, a business that provides shredding services to local businesses. John picks up paper recycling from local businesses which he then shreds and takes to the recycle center. John has family and friends who help him with the bookkeeping and one of our direct support staff drives him to his business sites.

From that beginning in 2002, John has grown his business so successfully, that he now has need of a larger work truck and recently has brought on help from another contactor also interested in recycling. Congratulations on your successes John!

With the overwhelming unemployment and underemployment issues affecting individuals with disabilities, we know how important it is to help people find work they enjoy and are good at. Named Customized Employment and MicroEnterprise, our employment support services are part of our work to provide expanded opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

At The Arc Central Chesapeake Region we help the people we support find personal and meaningful careers based on their interests and dreams. Customized employment is where we find the business that fits the individual, a job of their choosing in their community. MicroEnterprise, also created around dreams and talents, opens the door to business ownership for the individuals we serve.

20 SEPTEMBER 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS

Sep 1 Secretary of Disabilities Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Catherine Raggio 1 Sep 1 Senator Thomas M. Middleton Sep 2 Senator James N. Mathias, Jr. Sep 2 Delegate Michael H. Weir, Jr. Sep 3 Labor Day 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Sep 5 Senator Robert J. Garagiola Sep 6 Senator Brian W. Simonaire Sep 8 Delegate Adelaide C. Eckardt Sep 8 Delegate Kumar P. Barve 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Sep 8 Senator Norman R. Stone, Jr. Sep 10 Delegate Glenn Glass Sep 10 Delegate John A. Olszewski, Jr. Sep 12 Delegate John L. Bohanan, Jr. 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 Sep 12 Delegate Pat McDonough Sep 17 Rosh Hashanah Sep 19 Delegate Sep 22 First Day of Autumn 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 Sep 24 Senator David R. Brinkley Sep 24 Senator James E. DeGrange, Sr. Sep 24 Delegate Luke H. Clippinger 30 Sep 26 Yom Kippur Sep 26 DHMH Secretary Joshua M. Sharfstein, M.D. Sep 28 Delegate Keiffer J. This month is sponsored by The Arc Central Chesapeake Region Mitchell, Jr. Laura Carr, President Phone: 410-269-1883 Kate Rollason, Executive Director Fax: 410-269-0091 931 Spa Road Web: www.thearcccr.org Annapolis, MD 21401

21 Project SEARCH

Deanna Suggs is a 2011 graduate of Project SEARCH, an innovative program that provides work and career development opportunities for students with disabilities. Based on a model that originated at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center more than a decade ago, The Arc Baltimore is replicating the program with partners Baltimore City Public Schools and the Division of Rehabilitation Services at the University of Maryland, The Founding Campus and The University of Maryland Medical Center. The primary goal of Project SEARCH is to secure competitive employment outcomes for each graduate.

Deanna spent her last year of high school in one of the two classrooms housed on the university campus. There she learned important employability and independent living skills and participated in three 10-week unpaid internships. Deanna interned in the Mailroom, the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program and the Patient Transportation Department. Over the school year, Deanna’s confidence in herself and her abilities grew, and she acquired the real-life work skills necessary to land a job.

At her graduation, Deanna spoke about her year in Project SEARCH and how it inspired her and helped her to become workforce ready. A week later, when offered a job by the hospital, she enthusiastically accepted it. Now Deanna is working in the Mailroom and is well on her way to fulfilling her dreams of working and living independently in the community.

The Arc Baltimore launched Project SEARCH as a natural extension of their Community Employment division that already provided job opportunities and needed supports to over 500 people. The Arc Baltimore provides additional support and advocacy programs through its Community Living and Family & Children Services divisions. In all, The Arc Baltimore reaches more than 5,000 individuals with disabilities and their families in the Baltimore City and Baltimore County area. Through Project SEARCH, Deanna Suggs learned the importance of employability and independent living skills.

22 OCTOBER 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS

Oct 5 Delegate Warren E. Miller Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Oct 6 Senator Lisa A. Gladden Oct 7 Senator Nancy J. King 1 2 3 4 5 6 Oct 8 Columbus Day Oct 8 Senator Brian E. Frosh Oct 8 Delegate LeRoy Myers, Jr. Oct 9 Delegate Robert A. Costa 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Oct 10 Delegate Oct 12 Delegate Curt S. Anderson Oct 16 National Boss Day Oct 16 Delegate Charles Barkley Oct 18 Delegate Donald B. Elliott 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Oct 19 Delegate Nathaniel T. Oaks Oct 19 Senator Ronald N. Young Oct 20 Senator Allan Kittleman Oct 25 The Arc U.S. Convention Oct 27 Senator Nancy Jacobs 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Oct 31 Halloween

28 29 30 31

This month is sponsored by The Arc Baltimore

James List, President Phone: 410-296-2272 Stephen Morgan, Executive Director Fax: 443-279-3430 7215 York Road Web: www.thearcbaltimore.org Baltimore, MD 21212

23 Recycler Position Opens the Door to Microenterprise Opportunity

Jason Coffman teamed up with the Rapid Refill branch in Bel Air, Maryland where he works as an ink cartridge recycler. As such, he is responsible for collecting recycled ink cartridges from more than 20 different clients including schools, churches and small businesses.

Jason and his team stop by each client location at least once a month to collect the cartridges and bring them to Rapid Refill’s Bel Air location. Rapid Refill’s community commitment to cultivating opportunities for its employees has enabled Jason to supplement his income by being compensated for any new business he brings to the company.

Jason’s parents have supported this venture from day one by purchasing a cart to assist him on his route, and his dad has accompanied Jason on routes and is helping to grow his business contacts. Likewise, the Employment Services staff at The Arc has helped Jason to grow business prospects in the Harford County business community.

Staff at The Arc regularly attends business networking groups to establish contacts outside of Rapid Refill as well as assist Jason with transportation to his job sites. One on one job coaching Is also provide by The Arc and helps to create a positive work experience for Jason and Rapid Refill , a valued community partner.

Through the leadership at Rapid Refill, support from The Arc Northern Chesapeake Region and his parents, Jason has the opportunity to ACHIEVE his goals, be successful as an employee, and establish and grow his own business at a pace that suits his needs as well as his employer.

Jason Coffman Teams with Local Company to Work Smarter.

24 NOVEMBER 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS

Nov 1 Senator E.J. Pipkin Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Nov 1 Delegate Richard K. Impallaria Nov 2 Delegate Alfred C. Carr. Jr. 1 2 3 Nov 3 Delegate H. Wayne Norman Nov 4 Daylight Savings Time Ends Nov 4 Delegate Michael J. Hough Nov 6 Delegate Aruna Miller 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Nov 12 Veterans Day Nov 12 Delegate Michael L. Vaughn Nov 13 Delegate Eric G. Luedtke Nov 15 Senator Roy P. Dyson Nov 17 Delegate Kriselda Valderrama 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Nov 19 Delegate Michael G. Summers Nov 20 Delegate Adrienne A. W. Jones Nov 21 Delegate Tony McConkey Nov 22 Thanksgiving Nov 22 Delegate Michael A. McDermott 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Nov 25 Comptroller Nov 27 Delegate Marvin E. Holmes, Jr. Nov 27 Senator Verna L. Jones– Rodwell Nov 28 Senator Edward R. Reilly 25 26 27 28 29 30

This month is sponsored by The Arc Northern Chesapeake Region

Nancy Brugh, President Phone: 410-836-7177 Shawn Kros, Executive Director Fax: 410-893-3909 4513 Old Philadelphia Road Web: www.arcncr.org Aberdeen, MD 21001

25 A Passion Realized & Independence Achieved

James Purnell will tell you he likes to learn new things and work on diesel engines. It is those interests that drove our search for employment for James and why he is now an integral part of his community with a job that he loves, a newfound interest in photography and the ability to pay his own bills without the help of SSI.

James had worked around boats for almost four years and was so excited when in March of this year his employment advisor helped him find a position at the Seven Seas Yacht Services in Grasonville, MD. James loves working on the diesel marine engines, painting and repairing boats and being a part of a working marina.

When you have the confidence that comes from successfully realizing a dream, you will take on new challenges that you hadn’t before considered. For James that is photography. In addition to being a skilled mechanic, it turns out he’s also an accomplished photogra- pher and he’s even won a couple of photo shows.

At The Arc Central Chesapeake Region, we know James’ passion and talents will serve him well in his quest to learn new things and look forward to hearing more about his achievements in the years to come.

With the overwhelming unemployment and underemployment issues affecting individuals with disabilities, we know how important it is to help people find work they enjoy and are good at. Named Customized Employment and MicroEnterprise, our employment support In addition to being a skilled mechanic, James Purnell is services are part of our work to provide expanded opportunities for people with also an accomplished photographer. intellectual and developmental disabilities.

At The Arc Central Chesapeake Region we help the people we support find personal and meaningful careers based on their interests and dreams. Customized employment is where we find the business that fits the individual, a job of their choosing in their community.

MicroEnterprise, also created around dreams and talents, opens the door to business ownership for the individuals we serve.

26 DECEMBER 2012

BIRTHDAYS & EVENTS

Dec 4 Delegate Susan W. Krebs Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Dec 6 Delegate Heather Mizeur 1 Dec 7 Delegate Ariana B. Kelly Dec 8 First Day of Hanukkah Dec 9 Delegate Brian K. McHale Dec 12 Delegate Eric M. Bromwell 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Dec 13 Senator Jamie Raskin Dec 17 Senator Jennie M. Forehand Dec 24 Delegate Gail H. Bates Dec 20 Delegate Carolyn J.B. Howard 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Dec 21 First Day of Winter Dec 21 Delegate Elizabeth Bobo Dec 22 Delegate Maggie McIntosh Dec 24 Christmas Eve 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 Dec 25 Christmas Day Dec 26 First Day of Kwanzaa Dec 26 Delegate A. Shane Robinson Dec 27 Delegate Dan K. Morhaim Dec 28 Senator Douglas J.J. Peters 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 Dec 30 Delegate C. William Frick Dec 31 New Years Eve Dec 31 Delegate 30 31

This month is sponsored by The Arc Central Chesapeake Region

Laura Carr, President Phone: 410-269-1883 Kate Rollason, Executive Director Fax: 410-269-0091 931 Spa Road Web: www.thearcccr.org Annapolis, MD 21401

27 Thanks to our Sponsors

Thank YOU! Every dollar of this calendar went to paying for the pro- duction of the calendar — including paying Mike and Michelle for their work.

The Arc Baltimore The Arc Carroll County The Arc Central Chesapeake Region The Arc of Frederick County The Arc Howard County The Arc Maryland The Arc Montgomery County The Arc Northern Chesapeake Region

The Arc Prince George’s County The Arc of Southern Maryland The Arc of Washington County

Bill Ohge, Jr.- Chair Vicki Mills – Co Chair 49 Old Solomon’s Island Rd, # 205 Thanks to Michelle Galloway and Annapolis, MD 21401 Mike Gordon (under the leader- 410-571-9320 ship of The Arc Maryland Office [email protected] / www.pogmd.org Manager, Angela Haney) for their excellent work printing your 2012 Legislative Calendar. Special thanks to the individuals whose stories are fea- tured : Edward Willard, Randi Penenburgh, Chuck Fox, Scott Ashworth, Amanda Sperber, Bradley Robinette, If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for our 2013 Legislative Birthday Vera Armwood, George Richardson, John Sheehan, Deanna Calendar, please contact Heather East at 410-571-9320 or Suggs and James Purnell. [email protected]. 28