Fall 2009 - Arc of Steuben

In This Issue:
Page
Meet the Board
Incredible Angels Corner
News from Home
Arts at The Arc
In the Community . . . Of the Community
5
6
7
9
Fall 2009
Direct Support Professionals Week
September 14th-18th!
Celebrating Direct Support
Associates . . .
The Arc of Steuben recognizes and celebrates the
contributions made each day by our Direct Support
Professionals to support the people we serve with dignity and
respect. Every quarter we tell the personal story of one of these
very special associates.
Rich Armstrong
Rich Armstrong began his career at the Arc of
Steuben in 1999. He had previously worked in a factory
setting and came to the Arc because he felt working here
would give him an
opportunity to have a
career that provides
meaning in his life.
When asked what he
likes most about
working for the Arc
of Steuben, Rich
replied “working here
is more than a job.
Working here helps
give me meaning in
my life knowing that I
have an opportunity
every day to make someone’s life better.” Rich began his
career at the Arc working as a Vocational Counselor and
joined the Service Coordination team in December of
2007. As a member of the Service Coordination Division,
Rich serves on the Aging Committee where he is
spearheading an initiative that will assist the individuals
(Continued on page 10)
Steve Scott Wins
NYSACRA Award!
By Beckie Austin
Congratulations to Steve Scott who was chosen as the
2009 Western Division NYSACRA Direct Support
Professional Winner. He was selected from several
nominations from other Arcs who participate in the
Western Division NYSACRA. Steve has worked for the
Arc of Steuben for eight years and his Team Leader
submitted the nomination, which read:
“Steve provides community day habilitation,
residential habilitation and
family member training to
individuals with disabilities.
He never gives up on any
individual he supports. If
one approach does not work,
he tries another.
His
creativity and caring attitude
has helped people he
supports to reach for the
stars and to succeed. He has
a unique ability to reach the
people he supports and helps
them to reach their full
potential. “One example of
Steve’s ability to make a
difference in the lives of the
people he supports is Ben.
Ben is a young boy with autism who has very limited
communications skills. Due to this, Ben is active and ‘in
(Continued on page 6)
Page 2
Message from the Board President . . .
Normally this space is taken up with comments about the Board of Directors and what the
Agency is doing, but I want to take a moment in this article to tell you about a recent experience I
had as the parent of a person that the Arc of Steuben supports.
My son Jason recently participated in a Personal Outcomes Assessment administered by the Arc
staff and I was also asked to participate. Jason was not eager to participate, but the staff was very
casual with the questions in a social setting and made it fun and interesting. But even more
significant was when the outcomes were discussed—I was shocked at how well they knew my son.
They surprised me with the way they seemed to understand even his more secret desires for his
future. They were extremely creative with the ideas on how to help him work toward achieving
Mischelle Shattuck these goals. I want to commend the staff on this innovative way of making us all aware of the
dreams each individual has and ways to help achieve these goals. I encourage each person and
family we serve to participate in a Personal Outcomes Assessment.
In reference to the Board, our membership voted in May at the Annual Meeting on the new slate of officers. We also
welcomed a new member to the Board, Esther Kowulich-Covell. We thank Esther for offering her services and welcome
her to our organization.
(Continued on page 8)
Executive Director’s Message . . .
Unless you have been out of the country for the last year or so, I am sure you are aware that New
York State government is facing significant deficits this year and well into the future. The Arc of
Steuben and services for people who have developmental disabilities have not been left untouched by
this financial down turn.
One of the first things the State did in March was to stop all new development. At the time we had
two projects in the works—a new home in Arkport and downsizing the fourteen-person home in Bath.
The latter project included developing a small home on the same property that would be specifically
designed for people who have significant physical challenges. At this time it is possible the Arkport
project will get approved, but the Bath project is dead.
Bernie Burns
More significantly, for the first time in 20 plus years, the State eliminated the inflation or trend
factor for our rates of reimbursement. This has impacted us greatly since costs (food, heat, gasoline,
etc.) have all continued to rise but we are operating with the same revenue we were receiving a year and a half ago.
Wage increases have been put on hold and expenses have been cut to absorb the impact.
Our biggest concern right now is the next budget year. Will the State continue to freeze our rates? If so, 2010 will
be very difficult indeed.
We will keep you apprised of the situation as it develops.
Arc Holds Trivia Night
Fundraiser
By Shanna Gardner
The first Arc of Steuben Trivia night was held August
3, 2009 at the Bath Country Club and was a stupendous
success. The night included the participation of 11 teams
with prizes for first and last place. Everyone walked away
a winner because it was a great time! Our own Dan
Gleason carried his team, The Awesum 4sum, (Toni
Shorthouse, Rachel Mehlenbacher, and Jean McConnell) to
victory.
Prizes were donated by local businesses,
including, AJs, The Gold Mine, Long’s Cards and Books,
Miles Winery, Nails Plus, Pizza Hut, Rite Aid, San Carlos,
Subway, Tops, and Wise Guys. A total of $280 was raised
by the Finance Team for the capital campaign.
The Arc of Steuben, a chapter of NYSARC, Inc.
Published quarterly by The Arc of Steuben, One Arc Way, Bath,
New York 14810, (607) 776-4146, FAX (607) 776-9366, e-mail
arcofsteuben@arcofsteuben.org, and printed by Printers Plus, a
subsidiary of The Arc of Steuben. The articles in this publication are
meant as information only, not as legal advice.
Board of Directors:
Mischelle K. Shattuck, President
Joseph M. Monaco, Vice President
Melissa M. Joint, Secretary
William D. Dinehart, Treasurer
Helen A. Binkowski
Paul R. Greenfield
Stephanie E. Craig
Pauline P. Holbrook
The Rev. Sandra K. Curtis Esther P. Kowulich-Covell
Linda F. Elias-Carl
Donald E. McGuire
Denece Gossie
Nancy B. Smith
Arthur J. Stilwell, Immediate Past President
Bernie Burns, Executive Director
Kathleen Kent, Editor
Volume 45, Fall Issue
The Campaign
to Bring Us All Together
at the Arc of Steuben
UPDATE REPORT
CAMPAIGN REACHES $1 MILLION !
On July 26 at 12:36 pm Ethel Strickarz, Development
Director, accepted a donation that brought the capital
campaign total to the $1 million milestone. For several days
the total was close to $1 million so the count down was posted
in the main lobby of the new annex. Several donors came
forward to make second contributions to help us reach this
significant amount. Donna Pollard-White, the newest member
of Arc’s leadership team, returned from lunch and saw that the
posted shortfall had been reduced to only $56.
She
immediately pulled her checkbook out and made the donation
that brought the total to $1 million, and the celebration began.
It has taken four and a half years to raise $1 million. For an
organization of our size with a limited history of fund raising,
this is a notable achievement. It is only possible because we
have so many people who believe in our mission and who have
seen and experienced the positive results of our work and
commitment. Gifts to the campaign were made by almost 200
individuals, 25 corporations, 15 foundations and 27
community organizations. They range in size from $5 to
$250,000. Our campaign is unique and special because 61%
of the funds were received from individuals. Most campaigns
receive the majority of their funds from foundations and
corporations. Our results are a testament to the commitment
and trust our community and supporters have in the Arc of
Steuben.
We thank all of you for your generosity !
Only $350,000 to go . . .
• Total Project Cost:
$4 million on Phase I
$1 million projected Phase II
To date, 93% of the cost has been met.
• Capital Campaign Goal: $1.35 million
As of July 26, $1,000,000 (74%) has been raised.
contact Ethel Strickarz or Bernie Burns at (607) 776-4146
I/we will contribute $_________ to help meet the Together We
Soar capital campaign goal.
This contribution will be paid over a period of:
[ ] 1 Year [ ] 2 Years [ ] 3 Years [ ] 4 Years
NAME ______________________________________________
ADDRESS: __________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
PHONE: _____________________________________________
[ ] Check enclosed
Credit Card
[ ] Visa [ ] Mastercard
________________________________
Card Number
_________________
CVC Code (last 3 digits on back of card)
[ ] American Express
___________
Expiration
___________________________________________
Signature
Mail to: ATT: Capital Campaign, Arc of Steuben
One Arc Way, Bath, NY 14810
Page 4
The Arc of Steuben Recognizes Outstanding Associates
Team of the Quarter . . .
Mary Burns, Sharon Saker, Amy Payne, Chari VanAllen were nominated to be Team of the Quarter by Karen
Andrus, Vicky Cornish, and Marilyn Kuhn “for all their efforts in making it possible for a gentleman who lives at East
Main Street to return home after a lengthy stay at a health care facility. In October, this individual suffered a serious
medical condition which resulted in his hospitalization and ultimately in having to have a feeding tube inserted. Based
on his medical needs with the feeding tube, the individual was transferred from the hospital to a health care facility.
Throughout this time, the individual continued to express his desire in wanting to return to his home at East Main Street.
“Knowing this, Mary Burns, Sharon Saker, Amy Payne, and Chari VanAllen began to put the wheels in motion so
that his goal of returning home could occur. Mary and Sharon learned all they could about feeding tubes- what is
required, if we as a certified IRA could provide the service, and what we needed to do to be able to ensure his safety and
well being if he were to return home. After exhaustive research and collaboration and visits with other Arc’s, a plan was
developed, and this team of associates went to work. The agency’s policy was revised, procedures and tracking forms
developed, and the required training curriculum pulled together. To ensure oversight for his medical needs, the staffing
pattern was revised to increase the availability of an LPN. Training was provided to the associates, and as is required, a
(Continued on page 6)
Associate of the Month . .
The Arc of Steuben recognizes the following outstanding Associates of the Month:
Tracie Johnson (left), Residence Coordinator, was
nominated for Associate of the Month in May by the Brundage
Road Residence associates for “her expertise regarding the
people we support, and their patterns of behavior” and “her
ability to bring the team together by utilizing team-building
activities and having fun at work.”
Crystal Buckley (center), Vocational Counselor, was nominated
in June by the facility-based vocational associates “for the special support and instruction that she has been providing to
an individual with some challenges that had been interfering with his success in certain production tasks. Crystal has
taken the time to learn more about this person and to explore ways to support him, including cues or reminders that
others can use in helping him to be more successful. She provided one-on-one support to him while he was learning new
tasks, which reinforced the instruction he was receiving and provided immediate prompts to ensure his follow through on
the assignments. This special attention also provided other associates with techniques, which they could then
incorporate into their interaction with him.”
Eric Zurlich (right), Community Supports Specialist, was nominated in July by Mary Kuhlman, who noted: “Eric is
this calm, quiet guy – who is here to do a job and help the people we serve. He does not get into the gossip; he just does
his job quietly. The people that Eric serves just love being with him. They are gaining great strides in their
independence and their training areas. People feel comfortable with Eric, and this in turns helps them to learn and
develop the skills they have been working on.”
Instructor of the Month . . .
Congratulations to the Instructor of the Month recipients for May and June,
2009.
Debra Gleason, Director of Transportation Services, is the Instructor of the
Month for May.
Ric Miller, Direct Support Associate, was selected to be Instructor of the Month
in June.
Page 5
Arc Welcomes
Donna Pollard-White
The Arc of Steuben announced
that Donna Pollard-White of
Keuka Park has joined the not-forprofit as Chief Operations Officer.
Donna provides oversight to the
service provision Directors for the
Arc’s vocational, service coordination, community supports,
residential and transportation
divisions. She ensures the agency
is in compliance with all
regulations, and will act as
Executive Director in his absence.
Donna comes to the Arc of Steuben from Yates ARC
and has over 30 years experience in senior level
management with the not-for-profit sector.
She graduated cum laude from Rochester Institute of
Technology with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social
Work, and has completed professional training in all
aspects of management and leadership. In her leisure
time, she enjoys gardening, kayaking, bird watching, and
painting.
Meet the Board
Esther Kowulich-Covell
Esther Kowulich-Covell is a lifetime resident of the Southern Tier area.
Healthcare is her second career; she
retired from the VA Medical Center in
Bath. Currently she is doing work in
long-term care, along with various
community activities.
Esther has four daughters and six
grandchildren. To quote Esther, “I am
honored to be part of an organization
whose goal is to help people with
disabilities to be all they can be.” We
are honored to have Esther as part of the Arc of Steuben
family.
Visit
The Arc of Steuben's Website at
www.arcofsteuben.org
Atlantic City Penthouse Winners
Art Stilwell didn’t know it but he was going to make a significant impact when he donated a week long stay at an
Atlantic City Penthouse for August 2 through 8. Art donated this prize to raise money for the Arc of Steuben
Foundation. The Presidential Penthouse at the Wyndham Towers has three bedrooms and all of the luxury amenities you
would expect at this prestigious location. It would be a great place to spend a vacation.
The drawing was made and the lucky winner was Melissa Joint, an Arc of Steuben board member. When Melissa
was contacted she said “oh no, I can’t believe I won. My family has a vacation already planned for that same week and
we can’t go.” Melissa very graciously offered to gift the valuable prize to someone who bought tickets and really, really
wanted to win.
At a meeting the next day, Arc associate Darla Savey was completely surprised when it was announced that she was
the new winner of the Atlantic City Penthouse prize. Tears rolled down her face as her teammates applauded because
they knew how very special this gift would be. Darla and her fiancé Robert Naples were married on August 1st and then
departed for their honeymoon in Atlantic City which lined up perfectly with the week the penthouse was made available.
Congratulations to the newlyweds!
Dorothea Houghtaling Wins the Elias-Hubbs Award
(The Elias-Hubbs Memorial Achievement Recognition Award is given quarterly to a person we serve who has made
outstanding achievements or overcome tough obstacles to realize a personal goal.)
The second quarter Elias-Hubbs Memorial Achievement Recognition Award winner is Dorothea Houghtaling. She was
nominated by Bona Tuttle who noted: Dorothea wished to become a happier person and improve her life when she came
to the Arc of Steuben. She had struggled to make friends. Despite difficult medical conditions, Dorothea has improved
her life over the past 2 years by doing more activities in the community, having lunch or dinner with friends and family,
shopping at stores like Wal-Mart and JoAnn's Fabrics for crafts that she loves so much, and attending the YMCA to
swim and enjoy the spa. Dorothea now makes frequent visits to her boyfriend and has become much happier. She walks
in each day with a smile on her face and says hello to each and every one of her peers. She's willing to help peers and
get involved in group activities—unlike before. Dorothea has truly changed her life!
Page 6
Incredible
Angels
Corner
By Matt Mehlenbacher
The 2009 Western Region Self-Advocacy Conference was held on June 4th and 5th at the Batavia Holiday Inn. The
conference theme this year was “Following YOUR Dreams”. The Incredible Angels, once again, offered scholarships
to self-advocates who were interested in participating Twenty-two people attended the conference, fourteen of whom
were self-advocates. All who attended reported that the conference was extremely informative and that they had a wonderful time.
The Incredible Angels held a chicken BBQ at the Bath Home Show on June 21st at the Bath fairgrounds. The Home
Show is usually done in May, but this year, in hopes of improving the turn out, the event was moved and held in June on
Fathers Day weekend. The chicken BBQ has become an annual fundraiser for the Incredible Angels. The BBQ is done
in partnership with the Bath Masonic Lodge. Routinely, the group contracts to sell 200 dinners. Unfortunately, this year
due to the weather and changes to the Home Show we only sold 125 dinners. This would have resulted in our profits for
the day being under one hundred dollars. The Masons recognized the good work ethic of the Incredible Angels. The
Masons also support the activities of the Incredible Angels so they made a donation resulting in the profit for the
Chicken BBQ to be three hundred dollars! We thank them sincerely.
The group also held a bake sale, car wash, and penny social on July 13th. The event was a success and the Incredible
Angels made over one hundred and fifty dollars. The next event is the annual Summer Bash, which is a picnic to be held
at James St. Park in Hornell on August 9th. The Summer Bash is a free event and is open to anyone. All the Incredible
Angels ask is that each attendee bring a dish to pass; the Incredible Angels provide the meat. This year the group wants
to add an ice cream social to the activity.
Some other activities that the group is planning for 2009 include: a Spaghetti Dinner on September 26th from 4:30 –
7 PM at the Industrial Park cafeteria, a Halloween Dance on October 25th from 1 – 4 PM at the Wayland Legion, and a
Holiday Dinner Dance on December 6th at the Hornell VFW.
The group meets the 2nd Monday of the month at the Arc of Steuben’s main campus in the cafeteria. If anyone is
interested in participating in the Incredible Angels and/or their upcoming activities, please contact Matt Mehlenbacher at
Industrial Park (phone 607-776-4146 ext. 2256 or e-mail at mmehlenbacher@arcofsteuben.org).
(Team of the Quarter, continued from page 4)
(Steve Scott, continued from page 1)
dietician to oversee his nutritional requirements was
identified and hired as a consultant.
“Throughout the entire process regardless of the
questions and concerns that needed to be addressed, this
team never lost focus of their ultimate goal to bring the
gentleman home. Visits were continually made to him so
that he was kept informed of the progress, and we
continued to be an active part of his life.
“Thanks to this team’s dedication and efforts, this
individual’s dream became a reality, and he returned
home to East Main Street in early March. I don’t know
who was happier - the individual or the team at East Main
Street. Everyone is thrilled to have him home, and he is
thrilled to be home. Words alone can not express our
appreciation to Mary, Sharon, Amy, and Chari for all that
they did to ensure this individual could return home safely
and all that they continue to do to ensure his well being
(which involves continued training to associates on tube
feeding and care, overseeing the scheduling of the tube
feeding, and training and certifying associates in tube
feeding).
“For this gentleman (and us), there truly is ‘no place
like home’, and this team made that happen.”
your face’” as he tries to communicate what it is that he
wants to do. His parents tend to believe that he does not
really have the ability to communicate effectively. Steve
did not hold such limiting beliefs though. Through the 2hour weekly visits, Steve has used repetition, slow careful
words, and hands on assistance to help Ben learn to
communicate. Ben is now able to direct Steve to what he
wants in appropriate ways and the number of “behaviors”
has dramatically decreased. On a recent outing, Steve
asked Ben what he wanted to do and Ben was able to take
him by the hand and walk with Steve to the playground
that he wanted to play that day.
“Nick’s parents are strong ‘Steve Supporters’ as well.
A few years back, Nick had a seizure that nearly killed
him. His parents were very leery about sending him out
with anyone. Steve was able to balance the needs of
Nick’s parents with Nick’s desire to be independent in
such a way that everyone’s needs were met.
“Another example that comes to mind is a recent
interaction that Steve had with another individual also
named Nick, who has extremely limited use of his right
arm. Nick used to love to golf and felt that the inability to
(Continued on page 8)
Page 7
axãá yÜÉÅ [ÉÅx
(Road Trip, continued from page 14)
stomping ground, Brooklyn, and have the opportunity to visit his family as
well. Harry had not been to New York City in over ten years.
An associate, Becky, was the driver because she has friends who live in the
city, is familiar with the area, and is not intimidated by the traffic.
The trip took place over a weekend, and what it meant to the families
and Harry and Jack is what made the trip so worthwhile and priceless. While
they were there, they also had the opportunity to go by ferry to visit Ellis
Island and the Statue of Liberty.
It was not an easy trip. Harry uses a wheelchair, and requires special
equipment to be transferred and so they had to take all the special equipment
with them. He needed accessibility in their motel, restaurants and everywhere
they went. Even in this day and age where all facilities are supposed to be
accessible, they are not always. Harry’s wheelchair was checked before
leaving on the trip; however with all the touring around there was a problem.
One of the front wheels came loose to the point of almost falling off, so Becky
had to find and purchase an Allen wrench to fix the wheel. As part of being an
excellent caregiver, a direct support professional is also prepared to handle
whatever task is needed at the time.
Harry’s family gave Harry and Jack each Yankee baseball caps and Harry
saw his niece and great nephew whom he had not seen since his nephew was a
small child; now he is a teenager. Harry says he wants to go again—by
himself next time.
What was so great about this whole trip is that since our return we have
received phone calls from both families expressing how appreciative they are
for the great care that is provided to their family members by the Arc of
Steuben. Both families have stated that it is very evident how happy both
Harry and Jack are. Jack’s nephew could not believe that we were willing to
drive them all to the city. Harry came home with a wonderful smile, saying he
saw his family and his old hometown and Jack keeps saying “I have lots of
family and I look like my father.”
The Direct Support associates Laurie and Becky can be very proud of what
they accomplished, and for being willing to go to a city that is so different
from our area, putting in extra hours, and helping two gentlemen navigate in
the city. Thank You!
Brothers Reunited
At the beginning of July, Leo Connell received a surprise visit from his
brother George. George lives in Montana and came to New York for his class
reunion. When he arrived at Oaklawn to visit Leo, there was an obvious
resemblance between the two of them. Leo saw George coming to the house
and knew exactly who he was even though Leo had not seen George in over
fifteen years. Leo’s face glowed with excitement. Leo and George talked for a
little bit, and then George took Leo to the Chat-A-Whyle restaurant for
breakfast and coffee and then they returned to Oaklawn where they visited for
the remainder of the day. They both enjoyed talking about the old days, the
things they use to do, and they got caught up to date with each other. It was
apparent to everyone how much the two of them enjoyed their visit together.
In the Community…
Of the Community
L
eeMarie Shank is an
energetic, happy young
lady who loves to make
you laugh and even more
she enjoys laughing with you.
LeeMarie has been involved with the
Arc beginning in 2003 and has resided
at our Pearl Street home since 2005.
At LeeMarie’s recent planning
meeting, her mother, Terry Malatesta,
had everyone in attendance rendered
speechless when she thanked the
associates for their work and the
progress that LeeMarie has made. Ms.
Malatesta began by relaying a story of
LeeMarie’s trip last year to Sea Breeze
Amusement Park and how when Ms.
Malatesta was told about LeeMarie’s
thrills on the different roller coasters
she was in awe that LeeMarie would
even ride the roller coasters as she had
only seen her experience a merry-goround. Throughout the meeting Ms.
Malatesta stated how LeeMarie has
experienced
and
accomplished
activities that she thought would never
have been possible for her.
Ms.
Malatesta continued to say that
LeeMarie participates in more events
than she herself does and that her
family comments on how wonderful it
is to see LeeMarie being a part of her
community.
When LeeMarie first moved to
Pearl Street, she had difficulty
remaining calm while having to wait
for something. This included trips to
the local convenient store.
Now,
LeeMarie enjoys trips to stores within
the community. Some of her favorites
include going to the local ice cream
stand, attending the Hornell Dodgers
games, and doing her own banking. It
is truly a joy and an inspiration to
witness the success LeeMarie has
achieved.
Page 8
`ÉÜx axãá yÜÉÅ [ÉÅx
“The Big One Got Away!”
Charles Ferguson enjoyed his
camping trip, fishing and all.
Charles Williams enjoyed his trip to the
Syracuse zoo, where the elephants are his
absolute favorite animals.
This is Rita—part of the Wayland
Residence Team!
Looking for something to do?
Check out our brand new “Things To Do'“ Event Calendar on the Arc of Steuben's
website at www.arcofsteuben.org. This includes more than just Arc events. Also
featured are local, area, and community events including concerts, comedians, county
fair events, as well as a link to the Corning Chamber of Commerce Events.
Be one of the first to view the new “Things To Do” Calendar and be sure to visit our
site often ... Check it out!
Visit
The Arc of Steuben's
Website at
www.arcofsteuben.org
(President’s Message, continued from page 2)
I want to mention our Arc of Steuben website (http://
www.arcofsteuben.org) and note the newest addition, a calendar of
events. Please take a look. We will be updating it regularly with new
events.
I furthermore want to thank all of you who have renewed your
memberships to the Arc of Steuben and encourage those of you who
have not to please seriously consider supporting this organization and
all that we do.
(Steve Scott, continued from page 6)
use his arm would mean he could no longer golf. Steve would not let
him give up on himself and his interest so easily. He taught Nick to
golf with one arm/hand. They had spent countless visits at the driving
range and the indoor golf course practicing and this year, instead of
being the bag handler at the annual Arc Golf tournament, Nick was a
member of a team”
Steve was not in attendance to receive the Direct Support
Professional Winner Award at the Western Region NYSARCA
Conference held at Keuka College because he was at the Arc of
Steuben Golf Tournament with Nick celebrating Nick’s successes—
not his own. Steve truly not only talks the talk, but he walks the walk.
Thanks Steve for being who you are, you are a WINNER all
around!
(Donors, continued from page 13)
Matthew Metris
Rebecca Miller
Marsha Mullen
James Murray
Sade Nelson
Mary Obuhanich
Connie Paddock
Constance Palmer
Ann Marie Patti
Karen Pearl
Judy Perkowski
Kristine Porter
Carol Poust
Patricia Predmore
LeAnne Putnam
Cheryl Quinn
Amy Robbins
Margaret Ruocco
Mary Ryan
Sequoia Scanlon
Michelle Schlesing
Shon Schwartz
Stephanie Schwartz
Mischelle Shattuck
Cortney Shull
Deanna Skinner
Tammy Slayton
Nancy B. Smith
Penny Smith
Wendy Smith
Mariah Snyder
Donna Spicer
Forrest Stephens
Robyn Stephens
Shauna Stratton
Ethel Strickarz
Lanette Swarthout
Christine Taft
Conny Tears
Andrea Thompson
Mary Trail
Bona Tuttle
Chari VanAllen
Linda VanDusen
Michael Vangorder
Patti Walczak
Christine Wallace
Gregory Warth
Jodi Webster
Travis Webster
Jodi Weed
Brian Williams
Valerie Wray
Page 9
Art Show
By Ethel Strickarz
171 Cedar Arts Program
By Donna Boyce
How do you measure pride or a sense of
achievement? If you can measure them by the width of a
smile, then the ten artists who exhibited their work at the
We are very excited to share that in the fall we will be
offering a great opportunity for more creative arts and
exploration in the fine arts through the 171 Cedar Arts
program in Corning. Our previous Creative Arts program
was such a big hit that we decided to develop alternatives
for those in the Corning and Painted Post areas.
The program is designed to include various
“samplings” of fine arts for participants to explore
alternative arts concepts and discover the ones they enjoy
most. Some examples are:
• Voice and chorus
• Theatre and drama
• Pottery
• Water color painting
• Oil canvas
• Dance
Latrisha McCaig showing her art work.
The facility at 171 Cedar is a wonderful space for fine
arts activities. The building has a dance studio, lesson
rooms, art and theatre platforms and a beautiful exhibit
area for artwork.
More information about the program will follow
as we draw closer to October. However, if you or
someone you know is interested and would like the
information before then, please contact Darla Roote
through Community Supports. She can be reached at
607-776-4146. Hope to see you there!
Arc on June 18th surely measured 100%. Art therapist
Michelle Strazzeri Sexsmith taught a series of twelve
introductory art classes to ten people who receive services
through the Arc of Steuben. They experienced different
media and techniques, including watercolors, acrylics,
pencil drawing, mask making, and collage. The YMCA
of Hornell provided the classroom space.
After the course ended, an art show was assembled by
the Arc’s Development team. They acquired large
display units, mounted the art work and sent out
invitations. Many members of the artists’ families
attended their first art show. Michelle presented each
with a special certificate and each artist showed and
talked about their art work with pride.
Jean Jensen, Chief Strategy Officer, is looking into
setting up art programs in other county communities.
Page 10
Giving Back to the Community
By Patti Walczak
On June 24, 2009, two groups of volunteers from the
Arc of Steuben embarked on their assignments as
participants in the United Way of the Southern Tier’s 12th
annual Day of Caring.
A group of ten volunteers joined team captain Teresa
Koehler to help with cleaning up litter in Corning’s
Denison Park. Sporting their event t-shirts, gloves and
bags, they ventured out with their mission in mind.
Everyone enjoyed the experience, breaking into teams and
regrouping throughout the day. Lunchtime provided these
volunteers with the additional opportunity to meet another
group of volunteers and compare experiences. Being
interviewed by the television media was an added bonus for
several participants!
Meanwhile, another group of seven volunteers, led by
Notable Passings
On August 5th, Peter Kohn, beloved lacross manager
for Middlebury College, passed away at age 77. Peter
was the subject of a 2005 award-winning documentary,
“Keeper of the Kohn.” The film’s title is drawn from a
longstanding College tradition in which a “keeper” is
selected to care for Kohn—who suffered from mild
autism—in the same way he tended the team for more
than 50 years. “To spend time with Kohn was to befriend
a hero.”
On August 11th, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of
the Special Olympics passed away at age 88. Her
foundation seeks to prevent mental retardation by
identifying its causes, and to improve the means by which
society deals with citizens with mental retardation.
team captain Christi Forman, traveled to Prattsburg, NY, to assist the public library
with their inventory. They were welcomed by the library personnel and were
given their lists of items to organize in several different areas. The group broke
into teams and discovered the joys of accomplishment in this new venture, even
discovering items that didn’t belong to this library. One volunteer said that this
had given him the chance to learn more about library work and volunteering … he
really liked it! Another volunteer enjoyed stocking movies on the shelves, putting
them in order, and talking with the library staff whenever he had questions.
These experiences are helping us to open the doors to community integration
through volunteer opportunities. The volunteer teams were comprised of
individuals and associates from vocational services, service coordination, human
resources, and transportation divisions. The Prattsburg Library staff invited us to come back, and sent personal messages
of thanks to each of the volunteers. All participants said they would certainly be glad to do this again!!!
THANK YOU and CONGRATULATIONS to these volunteers for their service to their local communities:
Sarah Ameigh, Roy Boyle, Ellen Corwin, Christi Forman, Kristina Gossie, Joni Jensen, Erin Jordan, Bee Keck, Teresa
Koehler, Lori Lang, Heather Rivers, Holly Sarnicola, Connie Shutt, Tammy Slayton, Peter Spak, Darlynn Spizzeri,
Jaison Swarthout, Ella Thompson, and Jodi Webster.
Jennifer Weichman and Shawn
Manhart met when
they both worked as
Direct
Support
Professionals at the
West
Street
Residence
during
the summer of 2002.
T hey
s har e
a
passion for helping
people
with
disabilities. Jenn and
Shawn were married
at Canacadea Park
in Almond on June
27, 2009.
Congratulations to
two outstanding Arc
associates!
(Rich Armstrong, continued from page 1)
we support to seek out their own spirituality and become
more involved with their community faith organizations.
Rich currently resides in Bradford, NY, with his wife
Darlene. They have just celebrated 29 years of marriage.
Rich and Darlene have four children and one grandchild.
His two sons are currently attending Houghton College,
one daughter lives in Kentucky and his youngest daughter
will be entering her junior year of High School.
Faith is something that is very important in Rich’s life.
He recently graduated with a Master’s Degree in
Theological Studies at Northeastern Seminary in Rochester.
Rich is an avid reader and his favorite book is “The
imitation of Christ”. Rich is also very interested in issues
of peace and justice and he participates annually in the
CROP walk.
Rich Armstrong is an outstanding Direct Support
Professional who focuses on the needs of the people he
supports. The Arc of Steuben recognizes his contributions
and very much appreciates having him as part of our team!
Page 11
Steuben Area Rides Public Transportation
One Year Later!
By Debra Gleason, Director of Steuben Area Rides
S
teuben Area Rides (the Transportation Division of The Arc of Steuben) opened its bus doors to the public
on July 14, 2008. One year later, we are proud to report that our public ridership has surpassed the target
set by the New York State Department of Transportation. Our target for the second half of 2008 was 1,494
trips and we provided 1,616. We have set a target for 2009 of 4,800 trips an increase of approximately 60%.
Steuben Area Rides has routes open to the general public in the
following areas: Jasper/Bath, Wayland/Bath, Prattsburgh/Bath,
Addison/Bath, and Lindley/Corning. The most successful route is
Jasper/Bath with an average of 7 public riders per day. Although
this number may seem to most as an insignificant one, our original
goal was to have one rider per route/per day. Due to the rural
nature of our county, we do not expect to have huge number of
riders on our buses.
We have had many inquiries into our public transportation
services and have received a lot of positive comments from the
community: “this is great!”, “wow, you cover a lot of territory!”,
“it’s about time Steuben County had something like this!” Many
of our public riders have used our buses to connect with the other
public transit providers in Steuben County such as Steuben County Transit, CEATS, and HATS. As part of our
coordination efforts, we will be looking at system wide passes which would enable a rider to transfer to another system
without paying an additional fare.
For more information on schedules, fares, holidays, etc., please visit our website www.steubenarearides.org.
Arkport HOG Rock & Roar
Donates $5K
Arkport Harley Owners Group
prepares to depart on their annual
Rock & Roar ride.
Ethel Strickarz, Development Director (third from
left), accepts a check for $5,000 from the Arkport
Harley Owners Group. The funds were raised through
the club’s annual Rock & Roar motorcycle ride. Other
beneficiaries included Southern Tier Hospice and two
fire departments.
Page 12
The Arc of Steuben and The Arc of Steuben Foundation
acknowledge and appreciate the following donations:
(May 16 - August 6, 2009):
Capital Campaign
Arkport Harley Owners Group
Bath Central School
Helen Binkowski
Peggy Brush
Eric Buisch
Bernie Burns
Colleen Burns
Jeremy Cerio
The Chemung & Steuben Cty
Combined Federal
Corning Incorporated Foundation
Scott Craig
Jim & Barb Davis
Edward Davis
Raymond Dell
Dawn Drake
Linda Fero
Kurt & Sarah Fischer
Sandra Geerchen
Craig Gelder
Al & Denece Gossie
Trevor Gullo
Robert Haley
Johna Hall
Robert Hayes-Ford
Etta Hoad
Michael Holbrook
Pauline Holbrook
Hornell Association
Mary Lou Hunt-Quintal
Melissa Joint
Stacey Kennis
John Leyden
Anita Maroscher
Rowena McCarty
J.M. McDonald Foundation, Inc.
Matt & Rachel Mehlenbacher
Anthony Midey
Richard Miller
April Millhollen
Joseph Monaco
Jackson & Connie Morris
Sharon Nichols
Eric Oakley
Mike Oliver
Martha Painter
Donna Pollard-White
John Potter
Carol Poust
Quota International of Bath
Scheryl Robertson
Darla Roote
Donald Rouse
Margie Ruocco
Stephanie Schwartz
Mischelle Shattuck
Toni Shorthouse
Nancy B. Smith
James Smith
Arthur Stilwell
Ethel Strickarz
Heidi Sutton
Wendi Tarr
Robert & Elizabeth Turissini
Roxanne White
Linda Whitson-Jones
Robert Wolverton
Nick Xidis
Legacy Bricks
Walter & Linda Carl
Briana Fowler
Richard Miller
Robert Naples
Sharon Nichols
Membership
Sharon Abbott
Amber Adams
Brian Akins
Thomas & Carolyn Anderson
Chrissy Anderson
Barry Andrews
Chris Austin
Duane Baker
Aleda Ball
Steven Bauer
Dorothy Bavisotto
James & Mary Beaver
Shawn Beiswenger
Al Best
Douglas Best
Wanda Beyor
Mary Birdsall
Casey & Bobbi Bires
Jeffrey Blencowe
Donna Boyce
Roy Boyle
Deborah Bulkley
Cynthia Burnett
Colleen Burns
Dorinda Bush
Jennifer Buxton
Judy Campbell
Brendon Caparulo
Frank Caparulo, III
Frank Caparulo, IV
Nicole Caparulo
Vonnie Caparulo
Teresa Carl
Mary Clark
Maxine Claypool
Allen & Sandra Clowe
Sarah Clowe
Terry Clymo
Jo Cooper
Ronald Corey
Ellen Corwin
Frank Cotton
Gene Davis
Fred Davis
Marcus Davis
Steve Davis
Carl Decker
James Dee
Erin Delaney
Thomas Dibble
Dennis Dinehart
Christina Dodge
Dawn Drake
John Errington
Leslie Evans
David & Lorellie Evans
Amy Farnsworth
Seth Falzoi
Jeff Flaitz
James Flaws
Jon Flickner
Cora Fowler
Christine Frawley
Kevin Gallagher
Kenneth Goodwin
Linda Gould
Tuffy & June Gould
Todd R. Gregory
Marilyn Grillo
Teresa Hall
Steven & Johna Hall
Lynn Hayes-Ford
Charles Hill
Etta Hill
Rodney Hill
Chelsea Hockey
Prosper & Kristina Hodder
Homes Reflecting You by Sheri
Jesse Horton
Tiffany Howard
Joni Jensen
Tracie Johnson
Ninita Jones
Lynn & Joan Kline
Teresa Koehler
Jamison Kratzer
Barb Krisher
Corey Krisher
Eric Lafler
Jamie Lehman
Jeanne Leonard
Christopher Leonard
Mary Jane Lewis
Candace Makin
Phil Manhart
Deborah Margeson
Douglas & Joyce Marshall
Tamara Matusick
James McOvich
Matthew Metris
Michele Miller
Richard Miller
April Millhollen
Chris Moore
Lezlie Morse
Joan Moyer
James & Anna Mullikin
Rachel Mullikin
Bob & Shirley Myers
Robert Naples
Jazel Negron
Jeanette Nydam
Joseph O'Dell
Robert & Myrtle O'Dell
Thomas O'Dell
Martha Painter
Rosanne Partridge
Terri Phillips
Sam Potter
Kristy Powell
Dave Powers
Lynn Powers
Kim Presley
Kerry Pryor
Shari Reynolds
Richard Richardson
Heather Rivers
Lynn Rodger
Darla Roote
Lisa Rosekrans
Hollie Sarnicola
Anna Schwartz
Mark Schwartz
Carlyle Scott
Yvonne Shaut
Yvonne Sherman
Connie Shutt
Michele Sick
Deanna Skinner
Tammy Slayton
Nancymae Smith
Lena Smith
Joe Snyder
Peter Spak
Michael Spangenberg
Richard Spaulding
Linda Speer
Jeff Steeley
Donald & JoAnn Stilwell
Merle & Mrs. Stilwell
Jonathan Stromsness
Elisha Stromsness
Karen Sutryk
Sheila Swarthout
Sue Taft
Wendi Tarr
John & Conny Tears
Etta Thompson
Richard Tobia
Holly Tucker
Bona Tuttle
Gary & Doreen Vance
Linda VanDusen
Sherry VanDuser
Glenn Vogel
Jessica Wakefield
Douglas & Candi Walker
Regina Wallace
Alex Wallis
Mary Wallis
Marcia Weber
(Continued on page 13)
Page 13
(Donors, continued from page 12)
Jodi Webster
Jodi Weed
Rob & Trish Wentz
Jason Wheaton
Dale & Judith White
Raeann Widmer-Mason
Matthew & Michelle Winter
Timothy Wright
Jason Zigenfus
Golf Tournament
Alan Adams
Anaconda Sports
Tom Andrus
Bath Country Club
Beyond Baskets
Bonadio & Co., LLP
Bristol Harbour Golf Club
Bryan & Tracey Brown
Bernie Burns
Walter & Linda Carl
Jeremy Charles
Corning Country Club
CPE InterLink
Sandra Crewell
Raymond Dell
Neil & Lori Fagan
First Heritage Federal Credit
Union
Christina Forman
Michael Gabrielli
Ginger's Corner
Craig Gelder
Albert Gossie
Thane Graves
Trevor Gullo
Jeffrey Habeck
Marilyn Kuhn
L.D. Sprague & Son Inc.
Robin LaCroix
Richard Miller
Kevin Mole
Nick Musso
Nesbitt Financial Services
Daniel Nichols
Dennis Nichols
Jon Nickerson
Oak's
Matt Oliver
Joel Ordway
Outback Steakhouse
P & C Food Markets, Inc.
Park Inn Hotel and Crooked Lake
Ice Cream Parlor
Pepsi Bottling Group, The
Clark Perry
R & M Restaurant
Radisson Hotel Corning
Thomas Reed
Larry Reed
Tracy Robbins
William Roe
Save A Lot
Carlyle Scott
Seneca Beverage Corp.
Joy Shannon
Sherwood's Wine & Liquor
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Simmons-Rockwell
Arthur Stilwell
Tallman's Department Store
Tops Friendly Markets
USI Northeast/Liberty Mutual
Charles Vail
David Wallace
Wegmans
Wild Birds Unlimited
Rob Woverton
Nick Xidix
William Yost
Misc. Foundation
American Legion Post #1279
Ruth Pryslopski
United Way of Eastern Fairfield
County
United Way of the Southern Tier
United Way
(designated for Arc)
Timothy Allison
Bonnie Ambil
Sarah Ameigh
Carolyn Anderson
Karen Andrus
Richard Beaver
Mary Beaver
Heather Bevacqua
Donna Boyce
Cynthia Brown
Bernie Burns
Colleen Burns
Mary Burns
William Burns
Darlene Carnes
Thomas Cash
Jodie Charles
Sharon Charles
Naomi Clark
Christine Cole
Mona Coleman
Kacey Cook
Vicky Cornish
Robin Crapo
Sandra Crewell
David Davies
Gene Davis
Michele Day
Dawn DeBock
Lesa Didas
Donald Evia
Dolores Fisher
Bret Flint
Briana Fowler
Sandra Geerchen
Kathryn Gilbert
Andrea Gillen
Dawn Grosstephan
Robert Haley
Teresa Hall
Charles Hammer
Katherine Harrington
Robert Harwood
Etta Hoad
Lori Hodder
Marion Houck
Ann Howles
Vicki Huels
Lawrence Hughes
Mary Lou Hunt-Quintal
Tanya Ingram
April Jackson
Jean Jensen
Rosemary Johndro
Cheryl Johnson
Debra Johnson
Tracie Johnson
Joan Kane
Barbara Keck
Kathleen Kent
Mary Kuhlmann
Marilyn Kuhn
Eileen Lehman
Debra Mallery
Shawn Manhart
Deborah Margeson
Anita Maroscher
Rowena McCarty
Donald McGuire
Matt Mehlenbacher
(Continued on page 8)
Join the Arc of Steuben Today!
Your membership will impact the many lives of each child and adult served by the Arc of Steuben and
will also improve the lives of their family members. By becoming a member of the Arc of Steuben, you
add your voice and your vote for more opportunities and choices for people with disabilities. When we
advocate on a state or national level, the size of our membership tells our legislators that many people are
supporting our cause. For a small donation of $5, you can make a difference in the lives of over 2,000 people!
Membership Levels (Please check one):
$5 Individual Membership
$10 Membership for a Couple
$50 Lifetime Membership per person
Please make checks payable to The Arc of Steuben. Your gift is tax deductible.
Name ___________________________________________________ Phone: ____________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________
Charge my credit card: VISA Mastercard AMEX Card #: _________________________________
Signature: ____________________________________ Expiration Date: ____________ CVC#:______________
Mail to: Arc of Steuben, One Arc Way, Bath, NY 14810
The Road Trip
By Judy Perkowski
Have you ever seen the movie “Grumpy Old Men”?
Well, the recent trip made by Harry Barat and Jack Tebele
(who live at our Wayland home and who at times do not
see eye-to-eye) might have reminded a person at times of
the movie. Both gentlemen wanted to visit their families,
so plans were made to assist Harry and Jack with being
able to accomplish their goals
and go together to the Big
Apple. And so the Road Trip
began.
Two associates assisted
and supported Harry and Jack
to New York City and to New
Jersey to visit their families.
Jack had been to the city
previousl; he first met his
family just two years ago and
on this visit his family wanted
to have a huge picnic in Jack’s
honor. Since Harry is turning
ninety in December, we
thought it would be extra nice
if Harry visited his old
Jack and Harry
hit the road!
(Continued on page 7)
Want to share a comment, compliment or suggestion
for improvement? Please contact The Arc of Steuben
Customer Relations by…
Clicking the Contact Customer Relations button at
www.arcofsteuben.org
Calling 607-776-4146
Writing to: The Arc of Steuben, Attn: Customer
Relations, One Arc Way, Bath, NY 14810
If you no longer wish to receive this
newsletter, please call 607-776-4146 ext. 123
or email arcofsteuben@arcofsteuben.org.
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Last Call
Friendraising
A casual evening of food, wine
and conversation
to benefit Arc of Steuben
There are a few available dinner guest spots, so it isn’t too
late to join this fun event. Most of our dinner hosts are
located on beautiful Keuka Lake.
Saturday September 26
5 to 6pm cocktail hour at the Arc
Followed by dinner at host residences
$100 per person
Contact Peggy Wurzer or Ethel Strickarz at
607-776-4146
To make your reservation
Would you like to receive your Newsletter by email?
We would be happy to supply you with an online link.
Simply send your email address to arcofsteuben@
arcofsteuben.org and leave the rest to us!
The Arc of Steuben
One Arc Way
Bath, NY 14810-8341
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