Disability Awareness Day
Here is Arlene’s account of our trip to Abany for Disability Awareness Day, where our colleague and ADAPT member, Shelly Perrin, was one of the recipients of the Achievement Award given by the State Senate.
Shelly Perrin 2007 New York State Senate Achievers’ Award Winner
The 27th Annual Senate Disabilities Awareness Day saw another of Rochester’s own recognized: Shelly Perrin. This achievement is intended to honor people with disabilities in overcoming boundaries and breaking barriers. Twenty-three individuals from across New York State were recognized. Wanting to be well rested and refreshed for the following days, Shelly Perrin and Company (Arlene Wilson, Anita Cameron) left on Monday April 23rd. They stayed at 74 State Street (and yes, that is the name of the hotel).
Q: What are the odds of meeting Lt. Governor David Patterson personally in Albany?
A: Great, if you are Shelly Perrin!
Free time CDR Style
After arriving in Albany, Shelly met up with family and went to get something to eat, and relax in the hotel. By coincidence, Lt. Governor David Patterson, Senate Minority Leader Malcolm Smith and assorted legislative staff were doing the same. Advocates, being ever vigilant, went over and introduced themselves to Lt. Governor Patterson, who was warm and friendly. We then brought him over to meet Shelly Perrin and family. Lt. Governor Patterson congratulated her on her accomplishment, shook her hand and wished her and the family well. Anita and Arlene stayed at the lounge, while Shelly turned in early. Both advocates, being well schooled in how to ADAPT, availed themselves of the opportunity to talk politics and sing (not in that order) with some of the Lt. Governor and Senator’s staff, at the piano—and took some requests. (Even R & R time can be productive!)
Award Presentation
Tuesday morning Shelly Perrin and her entourage (Arlene Wilson, Systems Advocate, Anita Cameron, Systems Advocate, and sisters Doris and Gloria) headed over to the Legislative Office Building, where Shelly received the red carpet treatment. Ms. Perrin was warmly greeted by the staff of Senator Joseph Robach, and presented with a corsage. After her photo session, Shelly was whisked away for the awards presentation (look for her on the local news in the next few days). Senator Robach presented the award to Shelly, amid much applause.
The Tour
After a tasty luncheon, Shelly’s private tour guide, Randy, arrived. Randy took us on a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of the Capitol. We were given a history of the Capitol building, and saw: the Statue of Liberty (in its original state), the historical flag collection, the War Room (and its historical battle murals on the ceiling), the private portraits of NY State governors, and the Assembly and Senate chambers. We got to ask a lot of questions, take lots of pictures, and see the Million Dollar Staircase.
After the tour, Shelly was whisked off to Senate chambers, and given special seating on the floor of the Senate. Here, Senator Robach spoke about the wonderful advocacy work done by Shelly Perrin. The Speaker of the Senate read the resolution, making April 24, 2007 Disability Awareness Day. More photos were taken with Senator Robach, and we were escorted downstairs, ending a whirlwind day of action and excitement.
Congratulations Shelly Perrin!