The Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities (LCBDD) met late last week.
The meeting began with a presentation from Recreation Coordinator, Rose Canter, along with Special Olympics Coach, Mike Predmore and Athlete Leader, DJ Casey. The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of sports for children and adults with disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and develop skills and friendships. The first Special Olympics Games was held in 1968. Special Olympics has been vital for the last 5 decades and remains active today. In Logan County, there are 80 athletes, 8 coaches, and many volunteers. There are 8 Olympic sports practiced, 8 athlete leaders, and unified bowling leagues. Mrs. Canter, Mr. Predmore, and Mr. Casey shared their memorable experiences and the impact that Special Olympics has had on their lives and the lives of many others in Logan County over the years. The motto of the Logan County Braves is: Let me win. But, if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt. Go Logan County Braves! If you are interested in becoming a coach or volunteer with the Special Olympics, please contact Rose Canter at 937-292-5877.
In other news, Superintendent Oldiges reported that Early Intervention numbers continue to increase. A new Developmental Specialist position was approved at the May Board meeting and Heather Barns began in this position on July 10th. We welcome Heather to the team! Additionally, two new Instructors have been hired at the Discovery Center. Ms. Kayla Gauze and Ms. Caitlyn Young will begin on August 14th. We are very excited to welcome them, as well. The Discovery Center is gearing up to begin the 2023-2024 school year. The open house is on August 15th. Classes begin for IEP students on August 21st and for tuition/peer mentor students on August 28th. There are still spots open for tuition students! If you are interested in more information about the Discovery Center or enrollment, call 937-592-2009.
LCBDD was able to sell two non-working county vehicles through Gov Deals, with the assistance of County Administrator David Henry. The Board appreciates Mr. Henry’s assistance in facilitating this. This will go toward the purchase of new vehicles for the County Board, including a handicap-accessible minivan.
In State updates: Ms. Oldiges discussed the state approval of Provider rate increases, parents becoming eligible to be paid providers, increases in funding for technology and youth with complex needs, and funding for universal changing tables. Recently, LCBDD set up a universal changing table at the Logan County Fair, making it accessible and easy for families and providers with children or adults with disabilities to be able to attend the fair and have a place where their needs could be met while there. The goal would be to purchase some of these tables to have at different county events or public spaces.
Lastly, LCBDD announced that their annual Chicken BBQ will be held on October 5th this year. Order forms and tickets will be available soon. If you have questions or need more information, please contact Becky Robison at 937-292-3008.
Board meetings are typically held the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at 1973 St. Rt. 47 West, Bellefontaine. The next meeting of the board will be held on September 7, 2023.
