the madison express · volume 16, issue 12 the madison express page 2 blanketing fairhaven with...
TRANSCRIPT
Volume 16, Issue 12 December 2015
The Madison Express
Visit us online at www.co.madison.oh.us/dd/
Madison County Board of Developmental Disabi l i t ies
Training Stresses Positive Interactions By John LaCivita, Organization Services Director
On November 20 Tracy Anderson, Behavior Support Specialist presented an interactive training
geared towards enhancing staff’s understanding of how disabilities and effects of medications can impact the
lives of individuals we serve. The training was developed specifically for front line staff such as Drivers,
Residential and Day Program staff. 35 staff were in attendance.
Tracy engaged staff in exercises that included asking staff to write with their non-dominant hand
under time constraints and blindfolding staff while another staff prompted them to complete an activity.
Challenges and demands to meet expectations that may not be realistic and how this leads to frustration for
everyone involved were some of the things that staff experienced first-hand during the training. Staff
participating in the training came away with a better understanding of the need to give individuals additional
time to process requests. Emphasis was placed on realizing how much our interactions---whether positive or
negative can impact others. “If an individual has a bad morning on the ride in---start over fresh on the
afternoon route---they may have moved on or forgotten the incident---“Let it Go!”---Tracy echoed the line
from Frozen. Good advice.
We get caught up in the things that we are asked to do on a daily basis and move ahead at our pace,
not always understanding that our pace may not work for everyone—sometimes just slowing down a little,
explaining a situation a little more and doing so with a smile makes all the difference in building relationships
with the people we are paid to serve. The theme of the training was meant to get staff thinking---and it did!
Organization Services plans to facilitate trainings in 2016 geared towards better preparing staff to meet
the emotional, medical, and health and safety needs of the individuals we serve.
PAGE 2 THE MADISON EXPRESS VOLUME 16, ISSUE 12
Blanketing Fairhaven With Kindness
By Vicki Thompson, Fairhaven
The women at OPOTA (Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy) wanted to do community
outreach, so they contacted us for an idea.
Lisa Rinehart headed the
project to make fleece blankets
for each one of our students.
Several of the women
from OPOTA came to deliver the
blankets and the children were
delighted when they each got to
pick their very own fleece
blanket for themselves.
They made special boy
and special girl blankets, and
they will get to take them home
with them after they nap with
them every day for the school
year! The children love them! Pictured are (front, left) Miller Fulton, Hunter Whiteside, Camille Ruble, Owen Davitt (back, left) Keaton
Toland, Corbin Wenning, Harper Witt, Wyatt Davitt.
Pneumonia — Prevention and Treatment By Denise Zerkle, Health Services Coordinator
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. It can range in seriousness from mild to
life-threatening.
Symptoms that indicate you need to see a physician:
* Fever (usually greater than 102 degree F or higher)
* Sweating and shaking chills
* Cough, which may produce phlegm (bloody or containing pus colored yellow, green or
brown)
* Chest pain when you breathe or cough
* Shortness of breath
* Fatigue
* Mental confusion
* Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
* Blueness to skin, lips, or nails (not enough oxygen getting to the tissues)
Things to do to prevent getting pneumonia:
* Talk with your physician about the flu and pneumonia vaccines.
* Practice good hygiene (wash hands, cough/sneeze into tissue or into your elbow)
* Keep your immune system strong (get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a
healthy diet)
* Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of fluids (especially water) this will help loosen mucus in your lungs
* Stop smoking and limit contact with cigarette smoke (smoking damages your lungs’ natural defenses against
respiratory infections)
* Try to stay away from sick people
PAGE 3 THE MADISON EXPRESS VOLUME 16, ISSUE 12
‘Ready to Work’ Student Volunteer program By Jenn Coleman
‘Ready to Work’ student volunteers have the opportunity to job shadow local professionals
and experience being a part of the workplace during the day through volunteering. The volunteer
program places local high school students with businesses/ institutions partnered with Pathways to
Employment through the Madison County Board of DD to promote integration of individuals with
different abilities into community jobs.
Currently, two students in the Fairhaven classroom at London High School are doing their
volunteer work learning skills at London Public Library.
They are … Katie Carter (right, with Deb
Bowen), who assists with book shelving and
disinfecting., and Willie Anders (below left, with
Jenn Coleman and Nathan Haley), who provides
customer service and disinfect audio-visual items.
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
An anonymous company donated several turkeys to the Madison County Board of DD for the Thanksgiving holiday. SSAs Ron Mast and Kelly Nicolaysen delivered turkeys to many of our families in need. Cindy Gordon (pictured with Kelly) was very thankful for the generous offer, It helped feed her family and grandkids for Thanksgiving.
PAGE 4 THE MADISON EXPRESS VOLUME 16, ISSUE 12
Community Employment
Following Michael’s Path to Independence
By Jenn Coleman
Michael Wilhoit’s plan in 2014 was to graduate high
school -- the end.
Then, three things Michael said he couldn’t do without
were his Xbox 360, Monster Energy Drinks and his iPod. At that
point, when asked what he would do after graduation, he didn’t
have a good idea and couldn’t picture himself doing ‘more’ than
what he already knew.
That is when his team at the Madison County Board of
DD began talks with Michael and his family. As they prepared
for his exit from high school and his transition to adult life (prior
to his 18th birthday), they focused on the part of the MCBDD mission which is to assist “families in making choices
which will enrich their lives” .
Guidance provided by MCBDD’s Family Support Services Coordinators AJ Bush and Jamie Canney enabled
Michael to consider ahead of time what life would look like when he reached the age of majority. They worked to help
Michael and his family determine his path by providing ‘real life’ information when considering housing, medical
insurance, employment and supports necessary to live semi-independently.
Michael was referred to Jenn Coleman, MCBDD Community Inclusion Manager, through Pathways to
Employment for guidance in obtaining employment by linking him with appropriate job search assistance supports like
Bridges to Transition through Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities. Everyone worked together to prepare for
employment. Michael was able to be a part of a weekly group that met to develop interviewing skills, look at the local
job market, and brush up his resume.
Michael graduated from Jonathan Alder High School after completion of training at Tolles Career and
Technical Center in June of 2015, ready to work with a certificate in Power Sports and Diesel Technology from Tolles.
Following graduation, life moved fast for Michael. He had the opportunity to choose where he wanted to work
locally at a number of businesses where he had the skills to be successful. Michael chose an entry level position in the
maintenance department at the London Walmart store for his first job to gain some experience working, “just like
anyone else my age” Michael commented.
He continues to be an active member of his church youth group and went on a Mission trip to New Mexico this
summer where he experienced working alongside people to make a difference in their community. Additionally, he
gained a roommate/s in community housing, selected a residential provider, worked with Opportunities for Ohioans
with Disabilities Vocational Rehabilitation program for employment supports, met new people at work and is
maintaining his job at Walmart in the maintenance department. This holiday season Michael is thankful for the new
friends he’s made as he entered his adult life and the paycheck he’s earned through working. Michael says he’s “learned
that his money is tight” and that “it takes a lot to live on his own and it’s not easy paying bills.”
Looking ahead to 2016, Michael will be exploring his next steps on his pathway to independence -- budgeting,
paying bills, saving money, and possibly obtaining his driver’s license.
This is where we can all help. As advocates, families, disability service agencies and organizational leaders, we
can create inclusive communities by meeting people where they are and gently guiding them along the path to inclusion.
Michael’s story is a great example of inclusion ‘working’ for him.
His ongoing relationship with the MCBDD’s Family Support Services and Pathways to Employment will
continue to provide guidance along the way as his life goals and dreams take focus.
The Madison County Board of Developmental Disabilities vision statement says, “We will foster the abilities
and dreams of people with developmental disabilities.” Our mission is, “To ensure supports for people with
developmental disabilities and their families in making choices which will enrich their lives.”
Our agency takes our mission statement seriously as each individual that we serve has a plan that is
specifically tailored to support him or her in attaining the life that is important to them.
PAGE 5 THE MADISON EXPRESS VOLUME 16, ISSUE 12
Beightler Armory
The 12 years of Christmas A dozen reasons to smile.
It was 12 years ago that Beightler Armory extended an
invitation to Fairhaven School to bring its students to its facility
to celebrate the Christmas holiday season.
There were games, crafts, hand/face-painting, but what
the students were looking forward to most was the visit from
the jolly guy in the red suit.
Upon arrival, the kids were greeted by National Honor
Society students from Hamilton Township High School – who
not only facilitated games and crafts, but also dressed up as
beloved holiday characters such as Rudolf the Red-Nosed
Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman.
Through fundraisers like their popular Chili Cook-Off,
the non-profit organization provides each child with a special
gift presented by Santa himself.
As usual, Santa did not disappoint as he was adorned in
his trademark red suit, and iconic white beard – walking in to
thunderous applause.
At left, Fairhaven Preschool’s Ellie Peters receives her gift
from Santa Claus
Driver Makes a Positive Impact
As a driver for Madison County Ride, Mike Fitch picks up Liam Ward at
home and transports him to/from school each and every day. Liam attends Helping
Hands Center for Special Needs (also known as Bridgeway Academy) in Columbus.
Recently in a meeting held for Liam at his school, the teacher remarked how
much they like Mike at the school, and what a good job he does helping Liam.
Agreeing wholeheartedly with that statement prompted Liam’s mother Holly
to call MCBDD to express her appreciation on behalf of both herself and the school
for the fine work Mike was doing at his job.
Mike has been driving for Madison County Ride since July 2014.
Firefly Donates to Special Olympics
Firefly Support Services recently gave
a donation to Madison County Special
Olympics. On hand for the presentation were (from left) Firefly CEO Steve
Fulton, athlete Shawn Engle, athlete
Kendra Fox, and Firefly Director of Day Services Emily Self. Firefly is located on
Main Street in London.
PAGE 6 THE MADISON EXPRESS VOLUME 16, ISSUE 12
MATCO Holiday Greeting Cards on Sale
Fill someone’s stocking with the gift of original creations this holiday season.
One-of-a-kind artwork is featured once again this year on MATCO Services’
Holiday Cards.
Each of the hand-created works of art were thought of by talented artists at the
MATCO Services Activity Center, located at 204 Maple Street in London.
MATCO Services provides opportunities for each individual to contribute
their talents and abilities to the community.
“We support self-advocacy, choice and quality of life for the adults we serve,”
said Ashley Nordin, MATCO Art and Activities Coordinator. “By purchasing
our Holiday Greeting Cards you are directly supporting MATCO Services' Art and
Activities Program as well as each participating artist!”
This year’s artists include (name followed by art design title) …
Gary Baldwin (’North Star’), Rebecca Bell (‘Peppermint’), Tarri
Colebank (’Reindeer Games’ — pictured at left), Rebecca Dozier
(’Teddy Sleeps’), Britney Eades
(’Northern Lights), Keith Farris (’The
Stockings Were Hung by the Chimney
With Care’ — above right), and Randy
Mayabb (’All Wrapped Up’ — at right).
Each greeting card includes a biography
of the artist, and is printed with the
holiday sentiment, ‘Season’s Greetings.’
To purchase a set of the freshly-printed 2015 edition of the cards, please
stop in at MATCO Services during their regular business hours of operation —
8am to 4pm — Monday through Friday. The deadline for special orders is
December 15.
If you have any questions, or would like to place an order over the phone,
please do not hesitate to call us at (740) 852-7054 ext. 103, or email
[email protected], and speak with Ashley about ordering processes or
other information.
A Celebration of Good Food (and
Ugly Sweaters)
The second MCBDD staff potluck luncheon of 2015 was held on December 4 at Fairhaven and was enjoyed by close to 50 people. In the true spirit of the season, Inez Gordon (left) and Suzette Moran earned the distinction of wearing the Ugliest Holiday Sweaters.
PAGE 7 THE MADISON EXPRESS VOLUME 16, ISSUE 12
‘Tis the Season for Tigers Hoops
Madison County Tigers January 2016 HOME Basketball Schedule
Teams ‘Black,’ ‘Blue,’ and ‘JV’
* All home games are in the Fairhaven Gym *
Monday, January 4 at 7pm — Black vs. Columbus Public
Thursday, January 14 at 6pm — JV Tigers vs. Marysville
Thursday, January 14 at 7pm — Black vs. Goodwill
Thursday, January 21 at 7pm — Blue vs. Fairfield County
Monday, January 25 at 5:30pm — JV Tigers vs. Pickaway County
Monday, January 25 at 6:30pm — Black vs. Pickaway County
Saluting Employee Milestones
At this time of year, we are happy to salute Madison County Board of DD employees who have a
minimum of a dozen years of service. The person’s name is followed by their current position as well
as the number of years they have dutifully represented MCBDD:
Jim Canney, Superintendent — 38
Laura Loveless, Fairhaven School Substitute Aide — 33
Sue Reeves, Fairhaven Food Services Worker — 30
Vicki Thompson, Fairhaven School Secretary — 25
John LaCivita, Organization Services Director — 25
Annette Clevenger, Central Office Secretary — 23
Mike Mast, Children Services Supervisor — 22
Liz Blakeslee, Support Services Coordinator — 22
Carol Ansel , Family Support Services Director — 21
Melody Williams, Business Clerk — 20
Julie Anthony, Early Intervention Specialist — 19
Brenda Fitch, Administrative Assistant — 19
Melonie Fisher, Fairhaven Food Services Supervisor —19
Jeff Gates, Intake and Information Coordinator — 18
Keith Hatem, Investigative Agent — 17
Gretchen Peters, Support Services Coordinator — 16
Ron Mast, Support Services Coordinator — 15
Susan Thompson, Business Director — 15
Jessica Wright, Para Professional — 15
Lincoln Comer, Recreation Coordinator — 14
AJ Bush, Support Services Coordinator — 13
Marlene Toops, Para Professional — 13
James Carter, Madison County Ride Driver — 13
Mark Watson, Support Services Coordinator — 13
John Chesser, Mechanic — 13
Madison County Board of DD Monthly Board Updates
By Brenda Fitch
The Regular Monthly Board meeting was held Thursday,
November 19, 2015 at the Administrative office. Board
members attending were, Diane Miller-Ryan, Sue Mosier,
Sandy Birchfield, David Ridenour, Bob Barton and Ted
Slanker.
VICTORY!! Jim Canney reported to the Board on the
Levy results and distributed the Campaign Report.
The Board approved the 2016 Budget
The Board made a motion to approve paying for any Board
Member to attend the Annual Convention.
J. Canney reported that there will be a Resolution presented
at the convention and informed the Board of the details.
The next regular monthly Board meeting will be held on
Thursday, December 17, 2015 at 4:00 p.m. at the
Administrative Office.
Madison County Board of
Developmental Disabilities
Superintendent
Jim Canney
(740) 852-7050 x1819
(740) 852-7051 FAX
Organization Services
John LaCivita, Director
(740) 852-7050 x1816
Business
Susan Thompson, Director
(740) 852-7050 x1820
Family Support Services
Carol Ansel, Director
(740) 852-7050 x1838
Children Services
Mike Mast, Supervisor
(740) 852-7052 x1910
MAP Meeting Madison Advocates
for Progress
MCBDD’s Self-Advocacy
Organization
Friday, December 18, 2015
4:00pm London Public Library
All are welcome!!
Madison County Board of Developmental Disabilities Emergency Closings The following radio and television stations will broadcast if any aspects of the program are closed (or
delayed) due to inclement weather:
WTVN (610AM) … WNCI (97.9FM) … WCOL (92.3FM)
The FOX (105.7FM)
WSNY (94.7FM) … WCMH (Channel 4) … WBNS (Channel 10)
** Also, up and running is the One Call Now calamity day notification procedure
Art Club Mondays — December 14 and 28
Thursday — January 7
All at 6pm
All at Fairhaven
All are Invited
Get projects ready for 2016 Art and Soul Exhibit
Contact Lincoln Comer at 852-7052