The St. Mary’s County Board of Commissioners turned its attention toward some good things going on in the community Tuesday, Oct. 26. A visit from United Way representatives and the many agencies they assist within the county drew attention to the needs that are met through the community’s generosity.
Campaign spokeswoman Kathleen Reif pointed to the drastic cuts to Human Services and the increased need that agencies offering housing, counseling, mentoring programs and medical assistance to area citizens have seen. Giving to the local United Way helps offset this imbalance and Reif said, “all of the money stays local, there’s a large accountability factor.”
Commissioner President Jack Russell told the group, “You couldn’t have found a better cheerleader in the world than Kathleen Reif,” attesting to the Library director’s “vim and vigor.”
The board showed its support of the disabled community and the Commission for People with Disabilities, joining in an awards ceremony recognizing those who make a difference. Thomas E. Stewart, locally known as “the Gentle Giant,” is a disabled man often seen riding the STS buses. The commission named him Volunteer of the Year for his work at the Loffler Senior Center and as an ambassador for transportation, helping promote barrier-free independent travel for everyone.
Trish Coombs, owner of the Funny Farm off of Rt. 5, was awarded the Notable Employer award for hiring and training disabled workers, as well as for her support of the homeless and needy seeking job training experience leading to non-supported employment.
The award for Outstanding Person with Disability was given to Kevin Detwiler, a wheel chair bound 39-year-old resident who works as a substitute teacher at St. Mary’s County Public Schools. A socially active and inspirational member of the community, Detwiler promotes and participates in the advancement of barrier-free access for all.
David and Jo Anne Alexander, who for the past seven years have headed up the Torch Run in conjunction with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, were awarded the Outstanding Individual Achievements award. They have raised over $65,000 to benefit our local Special Olympics, which offers enhancements to the quality of life for its participants.
The COPD chairwoman Julie Randall stated the unemployment rate for disabled citizens is 60 percent.
The board got more familiar with some Lexington Park-based businesses in the afternoon, visiting Wyle Aerospace Group, Avian Engineering, LLC and the Tackcle Box.
The commissioners will not meet Nov. 2, Election Day. The County is seeking public input on legislative proposals for 2011, click here for information on how to share your St. Mary’s-specific ideas. The commissioners and the Southern Maryland Delegation will hold a joint public meeting on the matter Nov. 9, 7 p.m. at the Chesapeake Building. Only three items are currently included, two of which come from METCOM.
