2023 Disability Awards Given To Howard County Individuals, Businesses, Organizations

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — The winners of the Howard County Commission on Disabilities' 2023 Disability Awards were honored recently.

"In Howard County, we understand the importance of a diverse workforce that reflects our community and is inclusive of employees with disabilities. This year’s winners have made significant contributions to improving the lives of people with disabilities. Thanks to their efforts, Howard County continues to be recognized as a model community, where all are welcome and able to live a full life. Employment is empowering and it is through the removal of economic and other societal barriers that we can achieve equity," said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball.

This year’s award winners are:

Employer Award: BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse in Columbia, for its efforts to build an inclusive workforce for people with disabilities.

Service Awards: Lamont Edwards, a manager at Pete Pappas and Sons, Inc., for their efforts to empower individuals with disabilities to live self-directed, meaningful lives.

Tamara Layne, a speech/language pathologist in the Howard County Public Schools System, for their efforts to empower individuals with disabilities to live self-directed, meaningful lives.

Accessibility Awards: Howard County Department of Public Works, Bureau of Facilities, Design and Construction Division, for its efforts to provide accessible, user-friendly restrooms in County Government buildings.

Merriweather Post Pavilion, an outdoor entertainment venue in downtown Columbia, for its efforts to provide welcoming and accessible outdoor concert opportunities.

Individual Achievement Award – Youth: Alex Morales, a student at Oakland Mills High School, for their efforts to change attitudes regarding the capabilities of people with disabilities.

Individual Achievement Award – Adult: Regina Lee, an advocate and community leader, for their effort to change attitudes regarding the capabilities of people with disabilities.