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NEWS RELEASE

October 2, 2009

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Commission on Disability Issues Honors Winners at Annual Awards Ceremony

ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Ken Ulman and the Commission on Disability Issues last night announced the winners of the County’s 15th Annual Disability Awards Program which spotlights individuals and organizations who are change agents for full participation in community life for all. The ceremony was held at The Bain Center in Columbia.

“This awards ceremony showcases the outstanding efforts individuals, groups and businesses have made to help Howard County promote the true spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the honorees,” said Ulman.

The winners were:

Service Provider: AT:LAST, Inc. – AT:LAST, Inc., was nominated for connecting people with the assistive technology supports needed to communicate and participate actively in all aspects of community living. This organization improves quality of life and creates opportunities for growth.

Educator: Jeremy Snyder – Jeremy Snyder, an instructional team leader at Glenelg High School, was nominated for advocating for team-teaching and promoting opportunities for all educators to work together. Mr. Snyder encourages students without disabilities to work with students in the Alternative Life Skills program. His educational methods help students reach their full potential.

Accessibility-Universal Design: Howard County General Hospital – Howard County General Hospital was nominated for their efforts to make new facilities and services fully accessible. Representatives approached the Commission’s Access Committee when expansion was in the early planning phase, and sought community input from people with disabilities, volunteer architects, and professionals to ensure the new facility would provide optimal accommodations. This partnership resulted in a welcoming hospital environment responsive to the needs of all patients.

Accessibility-Community: Dyson Construction Company, Inc. – Dyson Construction Company, Inc., was nominated for demonstrating exceptional commitment to the Americans with Disabilities Act. After meeting with a local resident to discuss the need for increased physical access to a shopping area, the company responded with immediate action by installing additional curb cuts for safe and convenient pedestrian access.

Individual Youth Achievement: Nathan Cervelloni - Nathan Cervelloni was nominated for his achievements as a role model in the community, currently volunteering at the Ellicott City Health and Rehabilitation Center. He enjoys meeting new people and often invites friends to join him in volunteering. Through dedication, Nathan has expanded his abilities and demonstrated that one person can make a difference in the community, influencing others to do the same.

Individual Achievement: Ahleyah Abdul-Rahman – Ahleyah Abdul-Rahman was nominated for her academic achievement and volunteer work. Her passion is learning Spanish. Ahleyah has sought opportunities to use her skills to help others, volunteering at the African-American Art Museum in Columbia where she assists guests and translates labels of items in the museum. She is a role model for all.

For more information on the event or to arrange to interview the winners, please contact Erica Lewis, Disabilities Services Specialist, at 410-313-6402 or TTY 410-313-6401.